At a high-level meeting held within the framework of the UN General Assembly to mark the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili reiterated Georgia’s steadfast commitment to advancing gender equality and implementing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda.

“Georgia remains firmly committed to the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda and to ensuring the meaningful participation of women in decision-making at all levels,” she stated.

Reflecting on the legacy of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Botchorishvili emphasized both progress made and challenges that remain.

“Thirty years ago, the Beijing Declaration charted a transformative path toward equality, dignity, and opportunity for women and girls. As we commemorate this milestone, we must not only celebrate our progress but also acknowledge the persistent barriers to empowerment, inclusion, and equality.”

The Foreign Minister underscored that promoting women’s rights is both a moral imperative and a foundational element of Georgia’s democratic development. She noted Georgia’s active participation in the Beijing+30 review process as further evidence of its commitment to global efforts for gender equality.

Highlighting the intersection between peace and human rights, she pointed to the disproportionate impact of conflict on women and girls — including in Georgia itself.

“Without peace, the protection and promotion of human rights are always at risk. Women and girls are often the most affected by conflict — facing violence, displacement, and economic hardship. Unfortunately, Georgia is not immune. The continued occupation of the Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions by the Russian Federation remains a serious security challenge. Women living in these regions endure ongoing violations of their rights in the absence of international monitoring.”

Despite such challenges, she affirmed Georgia’s resolve to continue implementing the WPS Agenda and to prioritize women’s inclusion in all aspects of peacebuilding and governance.

Botchorishvili also highlighted Georgia’s economic development as a driver of gender equality. With the country ranked among the world’s top nations for doing business over the past decade, she noted that these gains are being channeled into creating inclusive opportunities — particularly for women entrepreneurs.

“Empowered and educated women, equipped with knowledge and confidence, are key to building resilient families and prosperous societies.”

Addressing one of the most pressing global issues, the Foreign Minister spoke firmly on the need to eliminate violence against women and girls. She outlined Georgia’s ongoing reforms, including the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, institutional strengthening, and the adoption of national action plans aimed at prevention and protection.

“Equality cannot be achieved until every woman feels safe. While progress has been made, far too many women remain silent victims of violence. We are determined to break that silence.”

In closing, Botchorishvili reaffirmed Georgia’s unwavering dedication to the global agenda for gender equality, peace, and sustainable development — calling on all member states to renew their efforts and solidarity in this shared mission.