Post by : Maya Rahman

The United Arab Emirates participated in the 46th Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie, which took place in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 19 for two days. This significant international event brought together nations from the francophone world to address pivotal global challenges. The theme for this year was, “Thirty Years Since the Beijing Conference: The Role of Women in the Francophone Space,” aimed at showcasing the advancements in women’s rights and involvement since the landmark Beijing Conference in 1995.

Heading the UAE delegation was Dr. Salem Al Neyadi, the UAE Representative to the International Organisation of La Francophonie. During the opening session, Dr. Al Neyadi highlighted the UAE’s commitment to empowering women across all sectors. He articulated how the UAE consistently fosters women as vital contributors to both local and global development.

Dr. Al Neyadi also shared details about the strides the UAE has taken in recent times to elevate women's status in various fields. He attributed these advancements to the astute leadership of the nation, which has implemented robust policies, national frameworks, and initiatives that enhance women’s access to education, jobs, leadership roles, and innovation.

He reiterated the UAE’s dedication to collaborating with other member states of the Francophonie to share experiences, best practices, and support initiatives that empower women to realize their full potential. Dr. Al Neyadi emphasized that international collaboration is crucial in creating an environment conducive for women’s contributions to society.

Additionally, Dr. Al Neyadi pointed out that the UAE engages in various global ventures aiming to enhance women’s participation across all sectors. These initiatives align with the UAE’s national vision, prioritizing women’s empowerment in its developmental agendas. The UAE firmly believes that societies progress more quickly and effectively when women have equal chances to engage in social, economic, and political realms.

Since becoming a member of the International Organisation of La Francophonie in 2010, the UAE has significantly enhanced its participation to foster global dialogue, cultural exchange, and international cooperation. The Organisation of La Francophonie is recognized as the second-largest international entity after the United Nations, comprising 90 member states and governments from diverse regions worldwide.

By attending this year’s conference, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to promote women’s roles, support gender equality, and collaborate with global partners for a more inclusive and empowered future generation. The discussions and collaborations during the conference are anticipated to aid member states in refining their strategies and intensifying their efforts towards women's progress.