Baku, December 12^th, 2023. The Women’s Economic Empowerment in South Caucasus project supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by UNDP, organized a networking event to share the companies` experience, obstacles they face, and practices they utilize in their organizations to ensure gender equality and the empowerment of women, as well as to exchange identifying concrete actions for putting their commitment into practice. 

The event aimed at increasing the sustainability of the Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) by creating a gender-sensitive ecosystem of companies that drive the gender equality agenda forward. 

Ms. Alessandra Roccasalvo, the UNDP Resident Representative a.i. in Azerbaijan, greeted the participants by noting that the event stands as a testament to collective dedication towards creating a world where every woman could thrive, contribute, and lead. She stressed the initiative to collaborate, innovate, and implement strategies that foster empowerment and break down barriers hindering women's progress. 

“Today, as we convene, we embark on a journey of learning, sharing, and inspiration. Our distinguished speakers and panelists graced us with their invaluable insights and experiences, offering us a deeper understanding of the challenges women face and the remarkable strides they make despite adversities”, Ms. Roccasalvo added.  

At the end of the event newly joined seven companies have been awarded relevant certificates.  

The networking event was also a great opportunity for the WEPs signatories, that joined the global UN Principles, to grow their business, expand their relations, and find new partners for their businesses.

Media contact: 

Jeyhun Alakbarov, UNDP Azerbaijan 

jeyhun.alakbarov@undp.org