Duchess of Edinburgh returns to CSW to stand with survivors of sexual violence
The Duchess of Edinburgh made a notable return to New York on March 12, attending the 70th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.
“It’s an honour to be back at CSW as a champion of women peacebuilders and the victims of sexual violence around the world,” Sophie remarked.
The palace released updates from the Duchess of Edinburgh’s visit, highlighting her steadfast dedication to women’s rights and global peace.
Her day began at the United Nations Headquarters, where she met with the President of the UN General Assembly, followed by a key meeting on Women, Peace, and Security at UN Women.
Her afternoon was equally significant. As Patron of Plan International UK, the Duchess attended a luncheon with CEO Reena Ghelani, discussing programs aimed at supporting young women and girls in conflict-affected areas.
She then participated in a meeting on conflict-related sexual violence at the Permanent Mission of Norway to the United Nations at One Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza.
Later, at the UK’s Permanent Mission to the UN, she met with Sudanese women leaders, women peacebuilders, and Ambassador Melanne Verveer, Executive Director of Georgetown University’s Institute for Women, Peace, and Security.
The day concluded with a powerful evening appearance at the opening of the photographic exhibition “When Silence Breaks: Accountability for Sexual Violence in Conflict” at the UN.
Delivering a moving speech entirely from memory, the Duchess emphasized the urgent need for accountability and the vital role of advocacy and awareness in conflict zones.
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