In one of his most emphatic advocacies for women’s rights, President Xi Jinping underscored the indispensable role of women as a vital force in national development. Addressing the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing, Xi highlighted that women are “vital in creating, promoting, and sustaining human civilization.”
Salient Points from President Xi’s Address
1. Women as Central to Civilization and Development
Xi emphasized that women play an essential role in creating, promoting, and sustaining human civilization.
He recalled the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women and its Beijing Declaration as an enduring milestone, calling for the reinvigoration of its spirit.
He noted that many countries have, over the decades, enacted laws, action plans, and institutional reforms promoting gender equality.
2. Acknowledging Persistent Challenges
Despite progress, Xi recognized that many women and girls continue to live in conflict-ridden, impoverished, or crisis-affected regions.
He pointed to ongoing issues of violence, discrimination, and the widening digital gender divide.
Xi stressed that achieving true gender equality remains a demanding and long-term global endeavor.
3. Four Major Proposals for Women’s All-Round Development
(i) Foster an Enabling Environment
Peace, security, and stability must serve as the foundation for women’s growth.
Protection of women and girls in zones affected by conflict, disaster, and poverty is essential.
Mechanisms must be strengthened to prevent violence against women and ensure accountability.
(ii) Cultivate Momentum for High-Quality Development
Address global imbalances in women’s development.
Ensure women equally share the benefits of globalization, innovation, and green development.
(iii) Develop Governance Frameworks that Protect Rights and Interests
Strengthen laws, institutions, and policies safeguarding women’s rights.
Enhance women’s access to healthcare, education, and leadership roles.
Promote inclusive social environments free from discrimination.
(iv) Promote Global Cooperation on Women’s Development
Encourage women’s greater participation in global governance.
Support the central role of the United Nations in advancing women’s causes.
Deepen international exchanges, capacity building, and partnerships through cooperation platforms.
4. China’s Achievements and New Commitments
Xi cited China’s domestic achievements to reinforce his message:
China’s poverty alleviation programs have lifted hundreds of millions, including women, out of poverty.
Maternal mortality rates have significantly declined since 1995.
Women’s participation has expanded across economic, social, entrepreneurial, and technological fields.
China’s New Global Initiatives Include:
A donation of US$10 million to UN Women over five years.
Allocation of US$100 million from China’s global development funds for women- and girl-focused projects.
Launch of 1,000 livelihood programs** prioritizing women and girls.
An invitation of 50,000 women globally for training and exchange programs in China.
Establishment of a Global Center for Women’s Capacity Building to enhance international cooperation.
5. Shared Future and Global Cooperation
Xi framed women’s empowerment within his broader vision of a “community with a shared future for humanity.”
He called for renewed commitment, collective action, and practical steps to accelerate women’s comprehensive development worldwide. Xi reaffirmed China’s readiness to partner with all nations in advancing the spirit of the Beijing Conference and promoting global gender equality.
