Street banners for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women are pictured in Beijing, capital of China, on Oct. 12, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
The world gathered in Beijing for the InternationalWomen’s Conference, for a global conversation on gender equality and women’s empowerment, with renewed strength and solidarity with leaders, activists, and advocates from around the world. With Chinese President Xi Jinping in attendance and delivering a keynote address, the conference marks a powerful moment in global advocacy for women’s rights—thirty years after the historic 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
The atmosphere in Beijing is one of reflection, resolve, and recommitment. Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Xi Jinping reiterated China’s unwavering support for gender equality, calling it “a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of global peace and development.” He emphasized China’s continued investment in women-led development, education, healthcare, and economic inclusion, positioning the nation as a committed partner in global efforts to uplift women and girls.
Xi’s remarks echoed the broader theme of the conference: “One World, One Voice: Women Leading the Future.” The event brought together a diverse coalition of voices—from heads of state and policymakers to grassroots leaders and youth advocates—all united by a shared vision for a more inclusive and just world.
Notably, African leaders played a prominent role at the conference, highlighting the continent’s growing momentum in advancing gender equality. From Ethiopia to Rwanda, Kenya to South Africa, African delegations showcased regional progress while calling for more global partnerships to support women in leadership, economic development, and peacebuilding.
President Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia delivered a compelling speech underscoring Africa’s dual challenge and opportunity: “We are rewriting the narrative. African women are not waiting for change—they are driving it,” she said, drawing applause from delegates.
Her sentiments were echoed by other African leaders, including Rwanda’s Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, who emphasized how gender parity in government is yielding measurable benefits in governance and social welfare. Many pointed to Rwanda, where women occupy over 60% of parliamentary seats, as a model for political inclusion.
Throughout the conference halls and side events, women from all walks of life—activists, entrepreneurs, academics, and rural community leaders—spoke with one voice. Their message was clear: the time for symbolic gestures is over; what is needed now is sustained action, political will, and inclusive policies that reach the most marginalized.
The conference also served as a platform for the next generation of leaders. Youth representatives from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas shared innovative ideas to tackle gender-based violence, close the digital divide, and promote climate justice through a gender lens. One of the most impactful panels featured young African innovators using technology to empower rural women through access to finance and digital literacy.
China’s hosting of the conference sent a strong signal about its desire to remain at the forefront of global gender discourse. The government announced several new initiatives, including a $500 million fund to support women’s education, health, and entrepreneurship across developing countries, with a special focus on Africa and Southeast Asia.
As the conference continues, the energy in Beijing is both hopeful and determined. The collective voice of women around the world is louder than ever, demanding not only equality but equity, not only representation but transformation. Leaders are being held accountable, and the world is watching.
The Beijing Women’s Conference of 2025 is more than a commemorative event—it is a clarion call for action. As global leaders return to their countries, the real work begins: turning words into policy, commitments into change, and aspirations into lasting progress for all women and girls.
