UAE Engages in Francophonie Conference on Women’s Empowerment

The United Arab Emirates was represented at the 46th Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie held in Kigali, Rwanda, on November 19th and 20th. This crucial assembly convened members of the francophone community to address significant global challenges. This year’s agenda centred around the theme, “Thirty Years After the Beijing Conference: The Role of Women in the Francophone Space,” emphasizing advancements in women’s rights since the notable Beijing Conference in 1995.

Leading the UAE delegation was Dr. Salem Al Neyadi, the nation’s representative to the International Organisation of La Francophonie. In his opening remarks, Dr. Al Neyadi underscored the UAE’s continuous commitment to enhancing women's participation in all sectors. He highlighted the country's dedication to empowering women as essential contributors to development both domestically and globally.

Dr. Al Neyadi illuminated the strides the UAE has made in female empowerment across various domains, attributing these advancements to the supportive vision of the nation’s leadership. The UAE has implemented robust policies and strategies designed to expand opportunities for women in education, professional development, leadership roles, and innovation.

Furthermore, he reiterated the UAE's commitment to working collaboratively with other member states of the Francophonie to share insights and promote initiatives that enable women to fulfill their potential. He affirmed that international collaboration is vital to establishing environments where women can fully participate in societal progress.

Dr. Al Neyadi also pointed out that the UAE is actively involved in numerous global initiatives aimed at bolstering women's roles across all sectors. These initiatives align with the UAE’s national vision, which prioritizes women’s empowerment within its development framework. The UAE is committed to the belief that true advancement occurs when women are granted equal opportunities in social, economic, and political spheres.

Since becoming a member of the International Organisation of La Francophonie in 2010, the UAE has been a proactive participant, enhancing its engagement to foster global dialogue, cultural exchange, and cooperation. The Francophonie is notable as the second-largest international organization following the United Nations, encompassing 90 member states and governments worldwide.

By taking part in this year’s conference, the UAE reasserted its commitment to promoting women’s roles, advocating for gender equality, and collaborating with international partners to build a more inclusive future. The discussions held during the conference are anticipated to bolster member states in refining their strategies and amplifying their efforts in support of women’s development.