BPW and CSW: A Legacy of Advocacy, A Future of ImpactCommission on the Status of Women (CSW) Committee – July 2025

This year’s NFBPWC magazine theme—Past, Present, and Future—is perfectly aligned with the journey our organization continues to take within the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). As we move into the third month of our CSW education and engagement series, we take a moment to look at the path we’ve walked—and the road ahead.

Past: A Seat in the Room
BPW International has been actively engaged with CSW for decades, holding consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since the mid-20th century. In those early years, our presence meant showing up, observing, and submitting written statements. We were there when critical resolutions on women's rights were drafted. We stood beside pioneering voices calling for global recognition of women’s contributions to work, family, and society.

Present: A Seat at the TableThis July, we are proud to share that a member of NFBPWC now sits on the NGO CSW/NY Executive Committee. This is a significant advancement in our global participation. It means that IFBPW not only observes and contributes—but helps shape the coordination of global civil society input for CSW itself. Congratulations to our VP Advocacy, Emily VanVleck for her election as a Member- at-Large. With this new role comes responsibility and an opportunity. We are more visible. We are more engaged. And now, more than ever, we are in a position to bring the experiences, concerns, and ideas of our members directly to the heart of CSW planning and execution.

Future: What Comes Next?
As we continue preparing for CSW70 in March 2026, we remain committed to supporting at least three member- driven programs that align with CSW’s themes and advance gender equality on the global stage. You don’t have to be a UN expert to participate—just passionate about making an impact.

In the coming months, we’ll dive deeper into how to build effective programming, how to align projects with the UN’s global priorities, and how members across generations and geographies can make their voices heard.

We will also continue exploring how Agreed Conclusions—the negotiated outcomes of each CSW session—can shape our advocacy locally. When we understand how global language evolves, we’re better prepared to press for change at home.

The Invitation Stands
BPW’s legacy is one of showing up, speaking out, and leading forward. Whether this is your first time learning about CSW or you’ve been part of past delegations, we invite you to stay curious, stay involved, and stay bold.
Let’s honor the past, strengthen our present, and prepare a future where NFBPWC voices aren’t just part of the conversation—they help lead it.

https://www.unwomen.org/en/how-we-work/commission-on-the- status-of-women
To learn more or get involved, email csw@nfbpwc.org.

Submitted by Barbara Bozeman, President, NFBPWC, 2024-2026