From October 13–14 in Beijing, world leaders and representatives from international organizations gathered at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women to mark the 30th anniversary of the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women. Against the backdrop of the original Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, this event reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing women’s rights as a catalyst for broader progress in poverty reduction and peacebuilding.
Central to the conversation was the Belt and Road Initiative, championed as a blueprint for connectivity and inclusive growth across partner countries. By weaving infrastructure, trade, and cultural ties, the initiative aims to create new opportunities that empower women and communities alike.
The meeting also introduced the Global Governance Initiative, the latest in Chinese President Xi Jinping’s quartet of global strategies—alongside the Global Development, Security, and Civilization initiatives. Together, they envision “a community with a shared future for humanity,” where cooperation replaces conflict and collective action tackles common challenges.
Yet despite progress, violence and poverty still harm millions of women and girls worldwide. Advocates at the conference stressed that respecting women’s unique roles and rights is not only a moral imperative but a practical path to building peaceful, sustainable societies.
This ethos finds resonance in Chinese cultural heritage, from the I Ching’s yin and yang balance to Confucian teachings on family and moral responsibility. These ancient principles continue to inspire China’s long-term vision for modernization and social well-being, outlined in its 2035 and 2049 goals.
As young changemakers, entrepreneurs, and global citizens, readers are invited to reflect on how gender equality and inclusive governance can reshape our shared future. From policy corridors in Beijing to grassroots movements worldwide, the journey toward a balanced world hinges on our collective commitment to empower every voice.
Reference(s):
China's contribution: From gender equality to global governance
cgtn.com
