What is the Generation Equality Forum?

The Generation Equality Forum (GEF) was a global gathering to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Platform of Action, highlight progress, assess gaps, and reignite efforts towards equality for women worldwide.  It was designed to enlist concrete, transformative commitments from states and civil society organizations to improve the condition of women and girls, particularly in light of adverse effects of the COVID pandemic. 

UN Women partnered with governments, youth, and civil society groups to present two virtual sessions hosted by Mexico (March 29-31, 2021) and France (June 30-July 2). The organizers included youth in all aspects of GEF planning and execution to allow the younger generation to have their voices heard on matters directly affecting them.

What concrete commitments for gender equality were made?

The Generation Equality Forum inaugurated six Action Coalitions composed of governments, civil society, international organizations, and the private sector.  The Action Coalitions aim to catalyze collective action; promote increased public and private investments; spark global and local conversations among generations, and most importantly, deliver game-changing results for women and girls. Action Coalition partners committed to $40 billion in investments for gender equality over five years (2021-2026).  

The six Action Coalitions focus on:

  • Gender Based Violence
  • Economic Justice and Rights 
  • Bodily Autonomy and Sexual and Reproductive Health and rights
  • Feminist Action for Climate Justice 
  • Technology and Innovation for Gender Equality 
  • Feminist Movements and Leadership 

Each Action Coalition presented a report and recommendations for the Forum’s outcome document, the Global Acceleration Plan for Gender Equality, the action blueprint going forward for women and girls. 

The Generation Equality Forum also launched the Compact on Women, Peace, and Security Humanitarian Action, inviting governments to become signatories and commit to financing for  peace initiatives.  

Resources

Generation Equality Forum home page

Global Acceleration Plan for Gender Equality (pdf)

Generation Equality Forum Summary – Mexico  

Generation Equality Forum Outcome Report – Mexico (pdf)

Generation Equality Forum Summary  – Paris  

Compact for Women, Peace, and Security and Humanitarian Action

 

Submitted by Pam Perraud