The recent Women 20 (W20) Summit, part of India’s G20 Presidency, took place in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. The summit’s theme, “Women-Led Development- Transform, Thrive and Transcend”, celebrated the power of women empowerment. It aimed to tackle major subjects concerning economic empowerment, trade and investment, and care economy.
The Key Focus Areas of the W20 Summit
A primary focus at the summit was breaking invisible barriers and biases that often prevent women from accessing top positions and leadership roles across various industries. Highlighting government initiatives such as Self Help Groups(SHGs), PM Mudra Scheme and GeM portal, it was demonstrated how these systems enable women to access both market and finance.
The summit underscored gender disparities in economic participation, focusing on the inequalities women face while attempting to access economic opportunities. This includes discrimination in accessing financial resources, markets, and trade networks.
Discussions and Celebrations at the Summit
Systemic barriers, including restricted access to credit, limited property rights, and discriminatory practices hindering women’s economic empowerment were discussed extensively. The tenacious strength, resilience, and progress in women’s empowerment were celebrated throughout.
Understanding W20
W20 is an official engagement group under the G20, established in 2015 with a focus on gender equity and women’s empowerment. The first W20 Summit took place during Turkey’s G20 Presidency in 2015.
The group’s primary objective is to integrate gender considerations into G20 discussions and convert them into policies and commitments. It influences the G20 agenda by endorsing gender-sensitive approaches to several global challenges.
Priorities of the W20
The W20 prioritizes areas such as Women’s Entrepreneurship, Grassroot Women Leadership, Bridging the Gender Digital Divide, Education & Skill Development, and Climate Change.
Composition of W20
W20 consists of a transnational network of delegates who represent non-government women’s organizations, civil society, female entrepreneurs, businesses, and think tanks. This network spans across G20 member states.
W20 India Presidency
On December 12, 2022, W20 India assumed presidency from W20 Indonesia. This change in leadership marks a significant milestone in the progression of women’s empowerment not only on national scales but also globally.
