CLGF Deputy Secretary-General Lucy Slack reflected on the Commonwealth Women's Forum discussions in a presentation to Heads of Government today, prior to the formal opening of CHOGM by the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Opened by the Commonwealth Secretary-General Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, the breakfast meeting brought together representatives of all four forums which took place as part of CHOGM2018:

• Women's
• People's
• Business 
• Youth

In her address, Ms Slack told Commonwealth leaders that we must continue to empower women into positions of leadership - in the political, public and private sectors. She explained, "Women make up more than half the population and their active leadership is absolutely essential for the future of the Commonwealth; for the development agenda; and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Women must be at the table and participate in decision-making at all levels."  

Ms Slack presented a snapshot of the discussions that had taken place over the past three days on various topics and barriers that women face across the Commonwealth. CLGF had partnered with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association to organise a session on Women's political participation fielding a diverse range of expert speakers.

Find out more about the outcomes of the meetings by reading the CHOGM Communique and the CHOGM Leaders' Statement. The official CHOGM website contains full information about all the forums and events, including speeches and photos.

19 April 2018