The International Council of Women (ICW-CIF) was formed in 1988 at a meeting in Washington, DC. As a women’s rights organization working across national boundaries, it focusses on the common cause of advocating human rights for women. Women from professional organizations, trade unions, arts groups, and benevolent societies participate. National councils are affiliated to the ICW and thus make themselves heard at the international level. The ICW enjoys consultative status with the United Nations and its Permanent Representatives to ECOSOC, ILO, FAO, WHO, UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNCTAD, and UNIDO.
The 36th General Assembly of ICW was held under the triennial theme of “Social protection for All Women and Girls: Sustainable Development for the World” from May 16 to 21, in Avignon, France. During the General Assembly, participants examined and evaluated women’s status from a global perspective, while assessing ongoing activities of ICW members and organizations. Through the event, our ICW sisters have shared their ideas and understanding, creating a basis for strengthened solidarity and global friendship.
The NCWC joined ICW officially in 1897, and has remained an active and involved member ever since. Over the years, many members of NCWC have served on the ICW Board of Directors and as Conveners of ICW Standing Study Committees. In fact, our founder, Lady Aberdeen was the first President of the ICW! We are very pleased to announce that one of our members, Sheila Pepper, was elected as the Coordinator for Child and Family, Youth, Seniors, and Migration issues at this Triennial in Avignon, France in May 2022.
We are also very pleased that our NCWC Resolution titled, “Protecting Children from Online Exposure to Pornography, Exploitation and Other Harms” that was drafted by Penny Rankin, Convenor for Children and Youth was accepted by the delegates in Avignon this year.
ICW has long been at the epicenter of the global women’s movement, improving the lives of virtually billions of women in every corner of the world, and we are proud to assist them in their work!
Photo: ICW Avignon May 2022
