International Development Law Organization

Advancing Women's Economic Rights in Law and Practice

Side event organized by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) with the support of the Netherlands and Sweden, and in partnership with OECD, Landesa and the Stand for Her Land Campaign on the occasion of the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Tuesday, 10 March 2026
10-11:15 am
Conference Room 8, United Nations Headquarters, New York
UN Web TV Livestream

While there have been great strides, discriminatory laws continue to persist, hindering women’s full enjoyment of their economic rights. Evidence consistently points to serious gaps in ensuring legal protection for women and girls across various economic spheres – including access to property, land, employment, finance and credit, and business opportunities.

The rule of law is a powerful tool for changing this. Strong legal frameworks and effective justice institutions can help level the playing field for women's economic opportunities, shift discriminatory norms and stereotypes and hold institutions accountable. Addressing legal constraints to women’s economic empowerment also contributes to better development outcomes, greater stability and stronger economies.  

As job markets evolve, addressing these challenges and ensuring that women can access emerging sectors will be critical. This event will feature an expert panel discussing the persistent challenges facing women’s economic rights along with proven examples of rule of law interventions with the power to strengthen them.  

Concept Note

Please Note: Due to limited seating, admission to the event is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Agenda

Moderator

Jan Beagle, Director-General, IDLO

Special Remarks

  • Dr. Lenita Freidenvall, Deputy Director-General and Head of Division for Gender Equality, Ministry of Employment, Government Offices of Sweden
  • H.E. Katja Lasseur, ECOSOC Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
  • Tihamér Czika, Gender Equality Lead, Human Rights Division, European External Action Service

Panel Discussion

  • Hyeshin Park, Head of the Gender and Development Unit, OECD Development Centre
  • Samah Hadid, Global Executive Director, Musawah
  • Lilian Adriko, Chief Executive Officer, Uganda Association of Women Lawyers (FIDA)
  • Clara Park, Senior Gender Officer, FAO
  • Esther Mwaura-Muiru, Global Advocacy Director, Stand for Her Land Campaign

Interactive Discussion

Learn more about IDLO at CSW70