G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023: A Milestone for Gender Equality and Women-Led Development

The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 marks a historic moment in the pursuit of gender equality and women-led development. Discover the key highlights and the global commitment to empower women.

In a remarkable stride towards gender equality and women-led development, the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 has achieved a historic milestone by incorporating the Chair’s Statement adopted at the G20 Ministerial Conference for Women Empowerment in Gandhinagar. This significant move underscores the commitment of G20 leaders to empower women and promote their active participation in various sectors. Let’s delve into the details of this groundbreaking declaration and its implications.

India’s Vision for Women-Led Development

Under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, India’s G20 Presidency has been guided by a visionary concept—an “Amritkaal” where the power of women, known as “Nari Shakti,” is celebrated across all facets of the economy and society. This profound vision has shifted the focus from women’s development to women-led development, marking a pivotal moment in the history of gender empowerment.

Historic Inclusion of Chair’s Statement

The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 incorporates the Chair’s Statement adopted at the G20 Ministerial Conference for Women Empowerment, which took place from 2nd to 4th August 2023 in Gandhinagar. This inclusion signifies the G20’s commitment to advancing the cause of gender equality and women’s empowerment on a global scale.

Key Focus Areas

The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 places emphasis on several critical areas:

1. Enhancing Economic and Social Empowerment: The declaration recognizes the need to empower women economically and socially, acknowledging their pivotal role in fostering sustainable development.
2. Bridging the Gender Digital Divide: Addressing the digital gender gap is a priority, ensuring that women have equal access to opportunities in the digital age.
3. Driving Gender Inclusive Climate Action: Climate change affects everyone, and this declaration underscores the importance of women’s participation in climate action, recognizing their unique perspectives and contributions.
4. Securing Women’s Food Security, Nutrition, and Well-Being: Ensuring access to nutritious food and promoting well-being for women is a fundamental aspect of the declaration, aiming to improve the quality of life for all.

Formation of a Women’s Empowerment Working Group

One of the most noteworthy outcomes of the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 is the creation of a Working Group on the empowerment of women. This Working Group will provide crucial support to the G20 Women’s Ministerial and is set to convene its inaugural meeting during the Brazilian G20 Presidency. This commitment by G20 Leaders demonstrates a collective effort to promote gender parity and equity worldwide.

India’s Resolute Dedication

India’s unwavering commitment to championing “Gender Equality and Empowering All Women and Girls” has secured a prominent place within the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023. This achievement has been made possible through the active involvement and support of G20 leaders, delegates, speakers, and representatives from various countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, and many others. Throughout the Indian Presidency, events such as the W20 engagement group, EMPOWER initiative, and Ministerial Conference on Women Empowerment (MCWE) played a pivotal role in advancing the cause of gender equality.

Acknowledgment of Contributions

The Ministry of Women & Child Development extends its heartfelt congratulations to all members of Women 20 and G20 EMPOWER for their valuable contributions, which have been duly reflected in their communiques and, consequently, in the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023. India’s G20 Presidency served as a beacon of progress for women empowerment globally, with six in-person international conferences and 86 virtual international meetings focusing on gender equality issues. These events, including those chaired by Dr. Sangita Reddy (Joint Managing Director- Apollo Hospitals Group) and Dr. Sandhya Purecha (Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee), received support from State Governments, Central Ministries, NIFT, Knowledge Partners like UN Women, FICCI, CII, and others.

Gratitude to Artisans and Entrepreneurs

Local artisans, craftspersons, women in unconventional fields, and women entrepreneurs made significant contributions by showcasing their products, skills, and services through exhibitions at in-person international conferences and panel discussions. The Ministry of Women and Child Development expresses its sincere appreciation for their valuable time and efforts.

People’s Presidency: A Mark of Engagement

In line with the vision to make G20 a People’s Presidency, Jan Bhagidari or Citizen’s engagement became a hallmark of India’s G20 Presidency. Over 300,000 citizens enthusiastically participated in Janbhagidari events, ranging from walkathons to flash mobs. These events showcased Women-Led Development, highlighting the active involvement of women community leaders, artisans, Self Help Groups, SMEs, corporates, and business entities from various states. India’s G20 Presidency truly became a people’s event.

In conclusion, the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 is a watershed moment for gender equality, women empowerment, and women-led development. India’s leadership and the commitment of G20 leaders to this cause have set a remarkable precedent for the world to follow. As we move forward, the global community must work collectively to turn these declarations into actions that empower women and promote their active participation in all spheres of life.