AYV News, March 17, 2026
Sierra Leone and the European Union (EU) have held a bilateral on the margins of the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women in New York.
The meeting which summoned Sierra Leone’s Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi and Her Excellency Hadja Lahbib, Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management was focused on strengthening collaboration between Sierra Leone and the European Union in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to address gender-based violence, with particular emphasis on sustaining and expanding the impact of the Spotlight Initiative, a global partnership dedicated to eliminating violence against women and girls.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening cooperation, supporting policies and programs that protect women and girls, and ensuring inclusive opportunities that enable women to participate fully in leadership, development, and decision-making.
Dr. Mahoi reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of women and children, noting that partnerships with international organizations and development partners remain critical in addressing persistent challenges affecting women and girls.
For her part, Commissioner Lahbib expressed the European Commission’s continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening gender equality and protecting vulnerable groups, emphasizing the importance of sustained international collaboration.
The meeting further highlights Sierra Leone’s ongoing engagement with global partners to promote dignity, equality, and safety for women and girls, while strengthening policies and programmes that advance gender empowerment across the country.
