CSW58: Occupation is patriarchal

New York, 14 march: Speaking at a parallel NGO event at the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW58), a Palestinian representative from the Arab Women’s Network, spoke to Gender Links about how Israeli occupation intensifies and entrenches patriarchy because many women are unable to access education and healthcare, are more vulnerable to violence and sexual assault and their movement is considerably limited. She also explained that very few Palestinian women are able to attend CSW because it is so difficult to acquire a visa. Click here to listen to the podcast.

Former head of UN Women and now Chilean President, Michelle Bachelet, in her closing statement at CSW57 last year said, “Delegates adopted resolutions on the future organization and methods of work of the Commission on the Status of Women, and on the situation of assistance to Palestinian women”. On 26 November 2013, the UN General Assembly voted to proclaim 2014 the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

As Israeli Apartheid Week comes to an end in South Africa this weekend, this serves as an important reminder of the multiple burdens women in occupied territories face and how women across the world, especially those in conflict situations, bear the brunt of struggles for equality and justice.

This podcast is part of the GL News Service special coverage of CSW58, offering fresh views on everyday news.

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