Ending violence against women will also be highlighted during three day visit

Tokyo, 9 November—On her first official visit to Japan, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women Michelle Bachelet will highlight gender equality and women’s rights as the foundation for a nation’s real progress and economic revival.

During the visit from 12-14 November, Ms. Bachelet will meet with high ranking Government officials. Commending Japan’s championing lead in international development and sustainability and on the leadership role it has played on women’s rights through the sponsorship of the UN General Assembly Resolution on Women’s Political Participation in 2011, Ms. Bachelet will call for robust policies that can ensure women’s full participation in the economy and in political decision-making.

“Women’s rights and empowerment offer real hope for the future,” said Ms. Bachelet. “By expanding women’s political leadership and economic participation, countries can reap tremendous benefits for all members of society. UN Women thanks the Government of Japan for its support and looks forward to strengthened collaboration.” In Japan, increasing the female labor participation could translate into a huge economic potential for the Japanese economy.

Ms. Bachelet will urge leaders to advance women’s full participation in all levels of decision-making. Ms. Bachelet’s agenda includes the Tokyo Tower’s Lighting event organized by the Cabinet Office’s Gender Equality Bureau, as part of the ending violence against women week. Ms. Bachelet will highlight the urgency to end violence against women in every country around the world.

In Tokyo, Ms. Bachelet will meet with UN Women partners including member of the private sector, civil society, media, UN system officials, UN Women National Committee and the Rector of the UN University. She will also visit the Shibuya School for an interactive discussion with youth.

The trip will conclude with a visit to Sakai City where Ms. Bachelet will meet with leaders and civil society members, and discuss collaborations to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Press Conference by UN Women Executive Director Michelle Bachelet

Date: Tuesday 13th November, 4.30- 5.30 p.m.
Venue: Japan National Press Club, 9th floor of Nippon Press Center Bldg.
Inquiry: UN Women Japan Liaison Office (Tel: 072-223-0009)

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