20 July 2024

Calling all justice-seekers! An opportunity to attend the 69th Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations: International Headquarters is selecting delegates from around the Salvation Army world to attend the 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) at the United Nations in New York City from 9–14 March 2025.

Each March, United Nations entities and non-governmental organisations, including The Salvation Army, assemble for the Commission on the Status of Women. The gathering is diverse with representatives from all 193 UN member states. The Salvation Army has a ministry presence in 134 of these countries, and we desire that our delegation would reflect this.

We are seeking inspiring female delegate-candidates, currently between 20 and 40 years old, who are informed on the intersection of gender equity with social justice matters, and able to speak out on justice issues and to represent The Salvation Army’s international position with confidence at CSW69. The candidate may be an officer or a soldier with evident passion, experience or employment in the fields of development, education, health and social services or in the leadership of women-focussed mission and ministry.

2025 marks the 30^th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and a specific focus of CSW69 will be to review, analyse and celebrate its progress. Just as The Salvation Army was in attendance in 1995, we want justice-seeking leaders and future change-makers to be present at this key event in 2025. Important themes are, but not limited to gender-based violence, poverty, education, health, leadership, human trafficking and modern slavery, environmental justice, and the role of the girl child.

Prospective candidates should submit a written paper detailing how their attendance at CSW69 would positively impact existing ministry and mission in a local or territorial setting (maximum 300 words) and a brief video speaking on a relevant subject of personal interest. Both tasks must demonstrate genuine concern for and knowledge of justice issues that impact women and girls, a good understanding of The Salvation Army and an appreciation for its mission, and the ability to articulate their views and convictions with respect. These tasks must be completed in English as delegates will be required to speak and understand English during CSW69.

Travel, accommodation and meals will be arranged and covered for selected candidates; however, visas and required documentation will remain the responsibility and expense of the individual or their representative territory.

Candidates should direct their email submissions to the international Women’s Ministries section (ihq-wm@salvationarmy.org) by Tuesday 20 August 2024, with both the written document and video statement attached or linked. Personal information (name, age, email address, occupation/role, corps and territory) should be clearly stated in the same email. Please note: territorial and zonal leadership will be notified upon submission and consulted during the selection process.

Tags: Women's Ministries