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Minister Valdez launches call for Civil Society Organization Representatives to join the Canadian Delegation to the 71st Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women

Women and Gender Equality Canada
Thursday at 12:00pm ADT · September 24, 2026 3 min read

GATINEAU, QC, Sept. 24, 2026 /CNW/ — Building a stronger Canada means ensuring women and girls have every opportunity to succeed. The federal government is taking action at home and working with international partners to advance gender equality, break down barriers, and expand economic opportunities. Bringing the international community together is an opportunity to build on progress and address the barriers that continue to limit the rights and economic empowerment of women and girls around the world.

As the head of the Canadian delegation, the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism) announced a call for applications for Civil Society Organization (CSO) representatives to join the delegation to the 71st session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW 71), taking place from March 8 to 19, 2027, in New York City. 

This call for applications, launched during Gender Equality Week, is an opportunity to help bring diverse Canadian voices and perspectives to the global conversation on gender equality.

The participation of CSO representatives in the Canadian delegation will bring their experience, knowledge and expertise to UNCSW 71, helping to inform Canada’s participation while taking part in key activities and discussions. They will also have opportunities to engage with Canadian and international CSOs throughout the session.

Interested candidates have until October 14, 2026, to submit their application. Consult the Call for Applications Web page for more details on eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Quotes

“Building a more equal Canada means making sure everyone has the opportunity to contribute, lead and succeed. Civil Society Organizations bring valuable experience and perspectives to this work.  By joining Canada’s delegation to UNCSW 71, representatives can help bring Canadian voices to the global stage, share ideas and best practices, and advance solutions that break down barriers and create more opportunities for women and girls. Together, we can help build a stronger, more inclusive Canada where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism)

Quick facts

  • Canada has participated in the UNCSW since its creation in 1947. Women and Gender Equality Canada, in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, leads preparations for the annual meeting.
  • The priority theme for UNCSW 71 is: Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Review theme is: Achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls in the context of climate change, environmental and disaster risk reduction policies and programmes. The Critical area of concern or cross-cutting issue is: Poverty and the economic empowerment of women.
  • According to Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The gender snapshot 2025, targeted investments in areas such as digital inclusion, poverty reduction and climate action could transform not only the lives of women and girls but entire societies and economies. 

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