Statement: CSW69 Side Event on the Women, Peace and Humanitarian Fund
Statement by H.E. Ms. Anna Johannsdottir,
Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations
CSW69 Side Event on the Women, Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF)
“We, Displaced & Stateless Women: Leading Transformation to Shape a Peaceful Future”
13 March, 2025
Thank you to UN Women and others for hosting this important event here today, and what a turnout!
Thank you Minister Buza for your insight. I also applaud the speakers and panelists today, bringing such strong message and stories from around the world.
Iceland’s road to gender equality is paved by women and women-led civil society organizations, so we know the potential they hold.
But of course, our road has not been as rocky as for those who are faced with crises, conflict, and displacement.
As we have heard today, women have energy, strength and resilience. By harnessing that strength, we can drive societies forward. We have so much to win.
I am pleased to announce that Iceland is donating 370.000 USD (50 m. ISK) to the Women, Peace and Humanitarian Fund Ukraine regional response, which includes support to Moldova. To put this in perspective, Icelanders are just short of 400 thousand people, so this is new contribution is close to a dollar from each of us!
Iceland has supported the fund for two years, starting in Afghanistan in 2023 with a similar amount annually. This is a new contribution.
The fund’s mission aligns well with our focus on gender equality and women, peace and security as outlined in our international development cooperation policy. It also underscores our goal to support communities directly, ensuring local implementation and participation in socio-economic recovery and peace building.
We believe the Ukraine’s Regional Response – including both Ukraine and Moldova is an excellent example of how we can partner and work together to support women in those settings, including organisations led by women refugees and IDPs.
Iceland is proud to take part in the important work of the WPH fund in Afghanistan and now in Ukraine and Moldova. We remain committed to our partnership.
Thank you!
