MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, is leading Guyana’s delegation to the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), currently taking place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from March 10 to 21, 2025.
The delegation includes Ms. Arianna Beharry, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administration) at the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Cona Husbands, Gender-Based Violence Specialist and Manager of the Sexual Offences & Domestic Violence Policy Unit, and Mrs. Sarah Browne-Shadeek, Parliamentary Secretary.

Also forming part of Guyana’s representation is the team from Guyana’s Permanent Mission to the UN, which includes Her Excellency Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative; Ambassador Trishala Persaud, Deputy Permanent Representative; Ms. Texine Daw, First Secretary; and Ms. Abosede Hazlewood, Second Secretary.

The main focus of CSW69 is the review and appraisal of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, along with the outcomes of the 23rd Special Session of the General Assembly. The session will assess existing challenges that impact the full implementation of the Platform for Action and the achievement of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Additionally, discussions will highlight the contribution of gender equality efforts toward realising the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Guyana’s participation in CSW69 underscores the country’s commitment to advancing gender equality, addressing gender-based violence, and enhancing policies that support women’s rights and empowerment at both national and international levels.