The inclusion of the Gender and Development Forum at UNCTAD 15 demonstrates a commitment by UNCTAD and Barbados to attaining Sustainable Development Goal #5 - "Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls."

While some countries have made significant strides toward achieving this, there is still much work to be done. As governments worldwide seek to "build back better" from the pandemic, it appears evident that the aim of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable societies cannot be achieved if the gap between women and men persists. This was made even more apparent in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we seek to continue to make strides toward gender equality, it is imperative that we acknowledge the positive advances but also the work still ahead of us. The Forum will provide the opportunity to identify the policies and measures needed to reach gender equality and empower women and discuss way to implement solutions.

The Gender and Development Forum will feature events led by Barbados and others lead by UNCTAD. The latter will pay special attention to the role trade can play in shaping gender-responsive economies and societies.