By Saroja Sivachandran

A Turning Point for Gender Equality

The Fourth World Conference on Women, held in Beijing in 1995, marked a historic milestone in the global fight for gender equality. With the participation of 189 countries, the conference resulted in the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a groundbreaking policy document outlining 12 critical areas of concern and concrete steps for achieving equality, development, and peace for all women.

“This conference brought feminist thinking into our everyday activism—on women’s rights, leadership, and empowerment. It shaped the way we see and do our work.” — Saroja Sivachandran

A Learning Experience That Sparked Change

Participation in the Beijing Conference was a life-changing experience. It opened new doors for feminist thought and global solidarity.

“We were introduced to feminist activists from across the world. Their energy inspired us deeply. We came back with new friendships, ideas, and a shared vision.”

Among the most powerful lessons were those that emphasized women’s economic empowerment, education, health, and the fight against poverty. The conference also left a lasting legacy in changing mindsets—particularly around preventing sexual harassment and assault.

“It is a historic achievement to have undergone such a transformation in how we think—and act.”

A Journey Through Adversity

Despite being displaced from Jaffna at the time, the Women's Development Centre, led by Saroja Sivachandran, was determined to participate. Three members made the challenging journey—first by boat from the war-affected peninsula to Colombo, and then to Beijing, joining the national delegation organized by the Women's Media Institute.

“Even amidst hardship and displacement, we knew we had to be there. It was bigger than us—it was history in the making.”

From Global Commitments to Local Actions

The impact of Beijing was immediate and long-lasting. Inspired by the Platform for Action, the Women’s Development Centre began to implement transformative programs on the ground:

• Livelihood initiatives for war-affected women

• Legal support for displaced communities to reclaim land

• Micro-enterprise opportunities for women with disabilities

• Educational scholarships for students living below the poverty line

• Legal and psychosocial support for survivors of sexual abuse

• Rallies and awareness campaigns

• Leadership training to increase women’s political participation

• Organic farming promotion

• Stronger connections with women’s rights organizations

• Engagement with the United Nations and international forums

“The conference didn't just inspire us—it gave us a roadmap. We aligned our entire action plan to its goals.”

Looking Ahead: Renewing the Promise of Beijing

Thirty years later, the spirit of the Beijing Conference continues to guide the work of women’s organizations in Sri Lanka and across the globe. The commitments made in 1995 remain as urgent as ever.

• Gender equality must be promoted across every sector

• Legal protections against sexual violence must be strengthened

• All countries should uphold the principles of the Beijing Declaration

“We thank the United Nations for organizing the conference that gave voice and vision to millions of women. It showed us that we are not alone—and that change is possible.”