Minister Grabar-Kitarović took part in Working Meeting on advancement of women

The meeting, held at the initiative of the UN Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, saw twenty odd women ministers, mostly of foreign affairs, focusing on the topics regarding the strengthening of the role of women in politics and economy, with a reference to development and obstacles, the legal framework necessary for the elimination of discrimination, fighting the violence against women, measures for preventing human trafficking, and education as a basic precondition for achieving a greater gender equality.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović held an opening speech, along with the US Secretary of State Rice, UN General Assembly President Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa, and Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. Describing the meeting as an important initiative, Minister Grabar-Kitarović presented Croatia’s and her own experiences in promoting gender equality and the advancement of women in political and public life. She noted the 1st Conference of SEE Women Ministers, held in Dubrovnik 6 July 2006 and its conclusions, as well as the Joint Statement by women foreign ministers, high officials, and dignitaries on women’s participation in politics, issued at the margins of the 1st session of the UN Human Rights Council, held 19th June 2006 in Geneva.

The Working Meeting ended with a conclusion on the need to hold meetings like this one continually, so as to promote gender equality at both international and national level. It was also suggested that Executive Committee be formed to direct the activities from its domain towards creating purposeful and efficient strategies of women advancement world-wide.