Statement of Croatia, September 2016

Gender inequality is the most pervasive form of global inequality and a pressing human rights concern. Women and girls are still exposed to a range of obstacles to their complete and full inclusion in social, economic and political life. .

There will be no real progress without a gender-responsive implementation of the Agenda 2030. To succeed we need more women in politics and business, in diplomacy and on executive boards. But this will not happen without men. Their role in the empowerment of

women, their support and understanding, is as crucial as the will of women to succeed.

This year, Croatia is chairing the Equal Futures Partnership - an innovative multilateral initiative with a view to encourage Member States to empower women economically and politically. The high level meeting of its members and supporters will take place tomorrow. I invite all of you to find time to pay due attention to this endeavour.