The proportion of women in the world population is almost 50 percent, but far lower among speakers at the UN general debate. This circumstance caused criticism. “Where are the women of this world?” asked South Africa’s president.
Against the background of the large majority of male speakers at the general debate in New York, the lack of gender equality at the United Nations has been criticized. About six hours after the debate began and after 15 male speakers on the podium, Hungarian President Katalin Novak became the first woman to take the podium.
In total, there were three women among the approximately 35 speakers announced for Tuesday and four women among the approximately 40 announced for Wednesday.
Gender justice – “Solution of many problems”
“Only four women have signed our founding document,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in his opening address. “One look across this room shows that not enough has changed.” Gender equality is the solution to many of the world’s problems, Guterres continued. “It is not a favor to women, but fundamental to ensuring a better future for all.”
Several other speakers also touched on the topic. “It should concern us all that the majority of people sitting in this meeting room are men,” said South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as he addressed the general debate. “The question we must ask: Where are the women of the world? The women of the world have a right to be here and to represent the views of the women of the world.” This time his delegation consists only of women, Ramaphosa said.