U.S.-Supported Conclave Discusses Women’s Safety and Empowerment

Ministers and representatives from 12 Indian states met in New Delhi today to discuss strategies to leverage partnerships with the private sector, international organizations, and civil society to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in the United States and India.

The one-day conclave was hosted by the Delhi Commission for Women and NGO Shakti Vahini with the support of the U.S. Secretary of State’s Office of Global Women’s Issues and the U.S. Embassy. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Commission for Women Chairperson Swati Maliwal, Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel, and U.S. Embassy’s Director for North India Jonathan Kessler addressed the conference.

Participants included state ministers for women and child development, state government officials, international organizations, industry representatives, and NGOs.

Forum participants discussed common challenges, and shared best practices and ideas for future U.S.-India cooperation on issues facing women and girls, including involving private sector and civil society partners.

The conclave aimed to develop effective partnerships to advance gender equality and to build a network of leaders committed to addressing key issues facing women and girls.

U.S. Charge D’ Affaires MaryKay Carlson addressed the closing session of the conclave.