WCC NEWS: Reflective dialogue focuses on advancing equitable inclusion of women in global UN mechanisms

A reflective dialogue held 4 May, entitled “Advancing Equitable Inclusion of Women in Global UN Mechanisms,” focused on how women from the Global South, migrant and diasporic communities, faith-based groups, and civil society continue to face systemic barriers to participating in global UN decision-making spaces, particularly the Commission on the Status of Women.  United Nations headquarter in New York City. Photo: Marcelo Schneider/WCC 07 May 2026 Organized by the World Council of Churches (WCC), Lutheran World Federation, and ACT Alliance, the dialogue explored how visa restrictions, financial exclusion, unequal delegation practices, and geopolitical power imbalances limit whose voices are heard and whose priorities shape global gender practices.  Speakers emphasized that women should not just be merely present—but should participate in global UN mechanisms. They noted that feminist faith advocates bring specific added value to multilateral policymaking, particularly in a time of coordinated backlash against gender equality and justice, and in a time of shrinking civic spaces. Discussions also included ways to create a collective, inclusive space in which ongoing collaboration demonstrates meaningful participation.  “We are calling ourselves into account,” said Rev. Nicole Ashwood, WCC program executive for a Just Community of Women and Men, who moderated the discussion. “How about you? Are you involved in the transformation that we seek? What have you been doing in your local contexts? We must move from the periphery into the center—and be intentional about it.” One of the speakers, Olivia Baro, ecumenical youth engagement coordinator at the Pacific Conference of Churches, acknowledged the wisdom, courage, and sacrifice of elders who came before her, opening spaces for women. “It is our responsibility to carry forth their vision by nurturing it,” she said. “Access is about having the power, the voice, and the ability.” See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland