The United Arab Emirates will host this week the international conference, “Global Women Summit 2023,” in this capital city that will highlight the role of female leadership in establishing peace, social integration and driving prosperity.

The conference on Feb. 21 and 22 at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort will be attended by stateswomen, faith leaders, entrepreneurs, social activists, cultural personalities, media celebrities, and scholars from more than 100 countries.

Speakers and participants will address the struggles faced by women, like gender inequality, domestic abuse and political disadvantages, and find ways to build bridges of peace, inclusion, and prosperity.

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, chair of the General Women’s Union (GWU), the Global Women Summit 2023 is organized by The World Muslim Communities Council (TWMCC).

After Sheikha Fatima’s welcome remarks, Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, president and chief executive officer of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators, will start the summit proper with her keynote speech on climate change.

Philanthropy, international relations and education are the other topics to be tackled on opening day.

“As we enter into a new era of uncertainty as a result of the global pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, and economic downturn, women of different races, faiths, and cultures should join hands to face the challenges and contribute their wisdom for peace-building, economic recovery, and social inclusion. The role of women leaders, as demonstrated during other crises should be celebrated and promoted for humanity’s progress,” the event statement read.

Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, chair of the TWMCC, said women have growing roles in promoting peace and social integration, and shaping a more prosperous future.

“This summit comes at an age that is seeing an urgent need for a global platform that support dialogue, unite efforts and views and find solutions for common challenges, such as the gender gap, domestic violence, social and economic marginalization, and providing further opportunities for women to lead in society,” Al Nuaimi said in a previous statement.

Noura Al Suwaidi, GWU secretary general, said the hosting of the global summit highlights UAE leadership’s vision, which recognizes supporting and empowering women as a key priority.

“The summit constitutes a world-level moral commitment to adopting new, more-inclusive strategies and solutions to deal with hurdles that hinder the progress of women, and enhance their essential role in driving sustainable development and promoting peace and security worldwide,” Al Suwaidi said. (PNA)