The United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is a functional commission of the Economic and Social Council and a major global forum for advancing gender equality and women's empowerment. It brings governments, civil society and other stakeholders together to review progress, identify gaps and negotiate policy conclusions on issues affecting women and girls. The Commission examines structural barriers such as discrimination, unequal economic opportunities, violence, limited political participation, unequal care burdens and barriers to education and health. Its work is especially important when conflict and displacement intensify existing inequalities.
 

Agenda: Addressing structural barriers to gender equality amidst conflict and displacement
 

Conflict and forced displacement can deepen pre-existing inequalities by disrupting livelihoods, education, health services, housing, documentation, justice systems and family support structures. Women and girls may face heightened risks of gender-based violence, exclusion from decision-making and disproportionate unpaid care responsibilities, while displaced women can experience barriers to employment, services and legal protection. The agenda therefore calls for a gender-responsive humanitarian and peacebuilding approach. Delegates should examine the four broad pillars associated with the Women, Peace and Security framework: prevention, protection, participation, and relief and recovery.