As part of an international gathering dedicated to advancing gender equality, the Minister participated in a ministerial roundtable on the topic "Achieving Gender Equality and Empowering All Older Women".
In his address, the Minister emphasized that gender equality is a fundamental human right, but also a key prerequisite for sustainable social and economic development. He emphasized that a society that provides equal opportunities for women and men simultaneously utilizes the full potential of its citizens and strengthens social cohesion and democratic stability.
The Minister recalled that Montenegro has made significant progress in the area of gender equality in the previous period through the adoption of strategic documents that pay special attention to women and other vulnerable categories of the population.
The speakers highlighted the position of older women, who often face multiple discrimination – based on gender, age, economic status and health status. They stressed that older women often have lower pensions, poorer access to health and social services, and an increased risk of social isolation and violence.
The Minister pointed out the importance of experience and knowledge, which represent a valuable resource for the community, local governments and the civil sector, and the need to create mechanisms that will enable their more active inclusion in social life.
It was also emphasized that achieving gender equality requires changing social norms and stereotypes, as well as strong cooperation between state institutions, local governments, the civil sector, the academic community, and the media.
"Women's empowerment is not a privilege, but a right. A society that empowers women of all generations invests in its future," the minister said.
In addition to this event, State Secretary Mersida Aljićević and Acting Director General of the Directorate for Development and Monitoring of Service Delivery Amela Orahovac attended a high-level side event on the topic "Women as Actors of Security and Peace", organized by the Republic of Austria.
This event discussed the role of women in building sustainable peace, strengthening security, and making decisions in areas that are crucial for the stability and development of society.
The participation of representatives of the Ministry in these events is a confirmation of Montenegro's commitment to improving gender equality, empowering women of all generations and strengthening their role in social, economic and political life.
