Commissioner for Gender Equality, Josie Christodoulou, departed on Tuesday for Belgrade to take part in the Belgrade Women’s Conference – RISE 2026, the 2nd International Ministerial Conference on the Political and Economic Empowerment of Women, which will take place on Wednesday in the Serbian capital, at the invitation of Tatjana Macura, Serbia’s Minister without Portfolio responsible for coordinating actions relating to gender equality, the prevention of violence against women and the economic and political empowerment of women.
According to a press release issued by the Commissioner’s Office, this year’s conference, entitled “Building Alliances for Rising Generations”, is a high-level international forum for the exchange of experiences and best practices, the presentation of effective public policies and the strengthening of international cooperation to promote gender equality and the meaningful participation of women in political and economic life.
As stated, the conference will be attended by ministers, senior government officials, and representatives of international organisations, the business community and civil society.
It is noted that Christodoulou will take part in a round-table discussion, during which the heads of delegations will present their countries’ policies, initiatives and achievements in the field of the political and economic empowerment of women.
Cyprus’s participation in this discussion provides an opportunity to present the Cypriot experience and the policies implemented to promote gender equality, as well as to exchange views with representatives of states and international organisations, it is stressed.
It is added that the Commissioner will also participate as a speaker on the panel entitled ‘Her Voice’, which will focus on the importance of women’s voices and presence in public life, on strengthening women’s participation in decision-making, and on the need to formulate policies that create equal opportunities and empower women at every level.
‘The Commissioner’s participation in the Belgrade Women’s Conference – RISE 2026 highlights Cyprus’s steadfast commitment to promoting gender equality and strengthening women’s participation in political, economic and social life. At the same time, it represents an important opportunity to further develop international partnerships, exchange expertise and highlight the need for strong and meaningful alliances that will ensure greater opportunities and equal participation for women for future generations’, the press release concluded.