Eman Borg - (He/Him) - Malta - CYGEN Coordinator.
Attending the Beijing+30 regional review meeting in Geneva from October 21–22 was a powerful reminder of the Commonwealth Youth Gender Equality Network’s (CYGEN) critical role in championing gender equality on the international stage. This gathering coincided with CYGEN members also actively participating in the Commonwealth Youth, Women, and Peoples Forums as part of CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings) further amplifying the voices of CYGEN as a key player in gender championing.
It was my first time stepping into a UN institution—a space that initially felt immense and imposing. Yet, as I entered the plenary, the warmth of familiar smiles, shared determination, and open conversations made the environment feel not only welcoming but empowering. Here, we convened to discuss The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, launched at the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995, marking thirty years of global commitment to gender equality.
The two-day conference began with welcome remarks from Ms Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, UN Women Deputy Executive Director for Normative Support, UN System Coordination, and Programme Results, and Mr Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Chair of the International Gender Champions Global Board. A clear message echoed throughout the consultation: the importance of collaboration and unity among all parties in advancing the global commitment to gender equality.
This powerful message aligns closely with CYGEN’s mission. With 240 members across 40 Commonwealth countries spanning all five regions, CYGEN truly serves as a global voice for positive change. The plenary, side events, and informal gatherings provided ample space for discussion and debate to share the grassroot work of our CYGEN members. Here, I was reminded of UN Women’s statistics: nearly one in three women worldwide experiences gender-based violence, while only 25% of parliamentary seats are held by women. These figures underscore the ongoing disparities and highlight the value of bringing together passionate advocates to drive meaningful progress, we have a long way to go.
The consultation was not just about recognising achievements but about revitalising goals, especially from a youth perspective. I emphasised the crucial role of youth in these conversations. I continued, that so much has changed since 1995 and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration—from AI to climate change, from increased conflict to heightened awareness of mental health. These issues are interconnected and disproportionately impact youth, particularly young women and girls.
Attending the Beijing+30 regional review as the Coordinator of CYGEN and representing our dynamic network serves as a powerful reminder that the journey toward equality is ongoing. The energy and fresh perspectives of youth are vital in keeping this mission adaptable and future-focused. As I exited the UN building, I felt a deep sense of responsibility, acknowledging that every conversation we engage in brings us closer to achieving a more equitable world for all.
About the Author
Eman is an award-winning human rights activist, and currently serves as the Coordinator of CYGEN (Commonwealth Youth Gender Equality Network) He is a Maltese youth leader from Gozo, was appointed as Malta's first Commonwealth Youth Ambassador in 2020. This role builds on his history of Commonwealth involvement, including being named a Queen’s Young Leader in 2017, in recognition of his activism, particularly with LGBTI+ Gozo. In addition to his ambassador role, he has represented Malta in various international fora.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Royal Commonwealth Society.
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