BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent - GFoD - ECPv6.2.9//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent - GFoD X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent - GFoD REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD TZID:Asia/Kolkata BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0530 TZOFFSETTO:+0530 TZNAME:IST DTSTART:20240101T000000 END:STANDARD TZID:Asia/Qatar BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:+03 DTSTART:20250101T000000 END:STANDARD TZID:Europe/Moscow BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:MSK DTSTART:20250101T000000 END:STANDARD TZID:Europe/Skopje BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD TZID:Europe/Paris BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD TZID:Asia/Kolkata BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0530 TZOFFSETTO:+0530 TZNAME:IST DTSTART:20250101T000000 END:STANDARD TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20240101T000000 END:STANDARD TZID:Europe/Zurich BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20240101T000000 END:STANDARD TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T124500 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20260220T211101Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T211101Z UID:10108-1773833400-1773837900@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Algorithmic Bias\, Gender Justice\, and Descent-Based Discrimination: Ensuring AI Works for All Women and Girls DESCRIPTION:Gender discrimination remains deeply rooted in many societies and is often experienced through intersectional forms of inequality shaped by factors such as descent\, race\, ethnicity\, socio-economic status\, and digital access. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded across sectors\, these intersecting inequalities risk being replicated and amplified through algorithmic systems. \nTools like risk prediction algorithms\, forecasting-based law enforcement\, automated welfare allocation\, and online judicial processing are transforming decisions on entitlements\, aid delivery\, and legal remedies. Without global guidelines\, openness\, redress mechanisms\, or\nrights protections\, these technologies frequently amplify entrenched gender disparities\, embedding biases from past records\, enforcement histories\, and bureaucratic routines. \nFor women and girls from communities discriminated against on work and descent (CDWD)—including Dalit\, Roma\, Quilombola\, Haratine\, Burakumin\, and other similarly affected groups—the risks are particularly severe. These communities already experience structural discrimination\, over-policing\, exclusion from services\, biased judicial treatment\, and chronic under-reporting of violence. When AI models are trained on biased data reflecting caste-\, ethnicity-\, or descent-based prejudices\, the resulting systems risk: \n\nDisproportionately flagging CDWD youth as “high-risk”\nIntensifying surveillance of CDWD neighbourhoods\nAutomating exclusion from welfare or social-protection schemes\nMisclassifying or deprioritizing CDWD women’s cases of violence\nReinforcing discriminatory employment and labour-market barriers\n\nThis session delves into AI’s influence on women’s and girls’ pathways to justice\, emphasizing compounded vulnerabilities from overlapping discriminations. It will also provide a timely platform for discussion ahead of the Working Group’s forthcoming thematic report to be presented to the Human Rights Council in June 2026. \nObjectives \n\nAnalyse how current uses of AI in governance\, justice systems\, and policing\nreproduce gender\, caste\, ethnicity\, and descent-based inequalities.\nHighlight lived experiences of women and girls from CDWD communities regarding\nAI-driven exclusion\, surveillance\, and barriers to justice.\nDiscuss safeguards and regulatory frameworks needed to ensure AI\nstrengthens—rather than undermines—women’s access to justice and protection\nfrom violence.\nExamine opportunities for AI to expand legal empowerment and support for survivors\nwhen human-rights-based digital governance is applied.\n\nTo join this event please register here. \nPartners\nPermanent Mission of Albania to the UN New York\nUN Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls (WGDAWG)\nThe Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD)\nThe Inclusivity Project (TIP)\nEuropean Union Delegation to the United Nations in New York URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/algorithmic-bias-gender-justice-and-descent-based-discrimination-ensuring-ai-works-for-all-women-and-girls/ LOCATION:Conference Room E\, UN Headquarters\, New York\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Flyer_updated.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260316T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260316T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20260220T221531Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T221531Z UID:10123-1773649800-1773655200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Hidden and Normalized Inequality and Violence: The Realities of Women from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent DESCRIPTION:Across the world\, women from communities discriminated on work and descent (CDWD)—including Dalit\, Quilombola\, Haratine\, and Roma women—continue to face extreme\, multidimensional\, and often invisible forms of gender-based violence. Despite decades of international commitments\, the violence they face remains under-reported\, under-researched\, and absent from global policy dialogues. \nThe new UN Women Policy Paper on Women from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent provides the first-ever UN system guidance to understand and address the structural\, gendered\, and systemic violence affecting these communities. This side event will showcase lived experiences\, evidence\, and grassroots strategies from CDWD women leaders and will highlight policy gaps in national\, regional\, and global responses to gender-based violence. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/hidden-and-normalized-inequality-and-violence-the-realities-of-women-from-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent/ LOCATION:Drew Room\, UN Church Center ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/CSW-Hidden-Normalized-Flyer.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20260220T213851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T213851Z UID:10116-1773225000-1773230400@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Women from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent Claim Climate Justice DESCRIPTION:Climate change disproportionately impacts women from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent\, compounding entrenched structural inequalities. Caste- and descent-based discrimination\, landlessness\, inherited livelihood insecurity\, and poverty intensify their exposure to climate shocks. The consequences include loss of livelihoods\, displacement\, increased unpaid care responsibilities\, heightened risks of gender-based violence\, and exclusion from relief\, recovery\, and climate finance. \nConvened by The Inclusivity Project (TIP) in collaboration with GFoD\, ADRF\, CONAQ\, and the ERGO Network\, this parallel event will center lived experiences and grassroots resilience while examining critical gaps in climate policy and justice frameworks that overlook caste- and descent-based exclusion. \nGrounded in a rights-based and intersectional approach\, the session will promote inclusive climate governance and strengthen the leadership and meaningful participation of historically marginalized women in shaping equitable and sustainable solutions. \nThe session will be held in English\, with interpretation available. \nClick here for the Zoom Link to the event. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/women-from-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-claim-climate-justice/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/GFoD-CSW-Climate-Justice.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260309T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260309T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20260220T220744Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T220744Z UID:10119-1773052200-1773057600@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Dismantling Systemic Barriers to Equitable Participation in Local Governance and Public Life DESCRIPTION:The Asia Dalit Rights Forum\, in collaboration with the The Inclusivity Project\, Feminist Dalit Organisation (FEDO Nepal)\, and Dalit Women Forum/Nagorik Uddyog\, will host an in-person parallel event during CSW70. \nThis event addresses the systemic barriers that prevent Dalit\, Roma\, Quilombola\, and Palenque women — particularly those from communities discriminated on work and descent (CDWD) — from fully participating in local governance and public decision-making processes. Despite global commitments to gender equality and justice\, these women remain severely underrepresented in leadership roles and excluded from shaping policies that directly affect their lives. \nFailure to confront these structural inequalities threatens progress toward SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace\, Justice and Strong Institutions). The discussion will explore transformative legal reforms\, inclusive justice systems\, and strategies to dismantle discriminatory laws\, policies\, and practices. Speakers will highlight the urgent need to strengthen representation and meaningful participation of marginalized women at all levels of governance. \nBringing together young Dalit\, Roma\, and other marginalized women leaders\, this dialogue will foster cross-regional solidarity and generate actionable strategies to advance women’s full and effective participation in public life and improve access to justice. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/dismantling-systemic-barriers-to-equitable-participation-in-local-governance-and-public-life/ LOCATION:Church Center for the United Nations (Drew Room) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/CSW-Dismantling-Flyer.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251128T140000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251128T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20251130T172624Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251130T172636Z UID:10084-1764338400-1764342000@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:A Step Forward at the UN to Address Hierarchical Oppression – Strengthening International Standards to Protect Descent Communities DESCRIPTION:Discrimination based on Work and Descent (DWD) affects over 270 million people globally\, often manifesting as social exclusion based on inherited status\, practices of untouchability\, and notions of “purity and pollution”. When groups face extreme forms of discrimination in accessing employment\, education\, healthcare\, and housing\, their capacity to contribute to national development is severely curtailed. \nWhile some States have constitutional and legal frameworks to protect minority rights\, implementation and consistent enforcement remain weak\, leading to systemic exclusion. This side event will prioritize identifying concrete measures and strategies necessary to eliminate these deep-seated discriminatory practices\, recognize the intersecting challenges faced by CDWD members and ensure the promise of the 2030 Agenda to “leave no one behind” is realized. \nThe contribution of the Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWDs) to peaceful and cohesive societies is undeniable. Rather than mere victims of systemic and intergenerational forms of discrimination\, these communities are agents of change. They are the protagonists of tolerant\, inclusive and diverse societies worldwide\, including economic development\, culture\, media\, and the performing arts. These contributions are often overlooked\, suppressed\, or even appropriated by dominant groups who may pass them off as their own. Despite their positive impact\, CDWD communities are frequently denied due recognition and are instead subjected to harmful stereotypes that portray them as backward\, unskilled\, and only suited for the most menial roles. \nThere is growing and steady recognition of CDWDs through several other UN mechanisms\, such as the UPR\, communications of special procedures and periodic reviews of treaty-bodies. This recognition\, however\, materialized in a fragmented manner\, through several standards and mechanisms\, which do not provide sufficient protection to over 260 million persons under this condition. \nObjectives \nThe side event aims to: \n\n Scrutinize existing state institutional arrangements\, such as quotas\, commissions\, or advisory bodies\, to determine why they often fail to ensure adequate and equitable representation and address the interests of smaller minority groups.\n Adopt a robust intersectional approach in all programmes and policies\, addressing the double marginalization faced by specific groups\, such as CDWD women\, girls\, youth\, and LGBTQ individuals\, who face exclusion both from the majority society and sometimes their own communities.\n Urge the UN mechanisms to adhere to key human rights standards and strengthen global standards on CDWD\, ensuring the specific form of hierarchical oppression based on work and descent is recognized and consistently reflected in national laws and practices. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/a-step-forward-at-the-un-to-address-hierarchical-oppression-strengthening-international-standards-to-protect-descent-communities/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/A-Step-Forward-at-the-UN-to-Address-Hierarchical-Oppression-–-Strengthening-International-Standards-to-Protect-Descent-Communities.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Qatar:20251105T150000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Qatar:20251105T163000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20251005T190924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251024T085003Z UID:9924-1762354800-1762360200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Designing Inclusive Futures: People-First Solutions for Social Inclusion and Equal Opportunities for Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent DESCRIPTION:#HEARUSNOW  \nBackground:As the WSSD-2 convenes\, this Solutions Session will spotlight community-led and multi-stakeholder initiatives addressing those most affected by social crises. Youth groups\, stakeholders\, IGOs\, and Member States will present case studies/solutions focused on the contexts of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) with intersections to Indigenous Peoples\, and Migrants/Refugees under the theme of social inclusion and decent work for all. \nA regional analysis\, compiled by UNECE as an input to WSSD-2\, elaborates how poverty and exclusion disproportionately affect frontline groups. While extreme monetary poverty is rare in some regions\, multidimensional poverty rates exceed 20%\, hitting women\, children\, Roma communities\, and migrants hardest. This highlights the deep structural inequalities that must frame WSSD-2 discussions. The 2024 report on the status of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) – which includes Dalits in South Asia\, Haratin and Osu in Africa\, Roma in Europe\, and Quilombolas in Latin America – shows that over 270 million people face entrenched discrimination. Despite 80 years of UN efforts\, concepts of untouchability persist\, denying these communities access to decent work\, education\, justice\, and secure livelihoods\, with discrimination ingrained in social systems. This is worsened by environmental crises and economic precarity\, hitting Indigenous peoples\, migrants\, refugees\, and other marginalized groups hardest\, especially children and young women. Yet CDWD and excluded youth are leading change and advancing justice\, and building societies rooted in dignity and equity.  \n \nAgainst this backdrop\, this session will: \n\nShowcase case studies from CDWD organisations and allied partners\, with a cross-cutting focus on youth\, Indigenous peoples\, and refugees\n\n\nHighlight key solutions – in the form of policy suggestions and concrete actions proposed by the CDWD youth groups\, UN agencies\, and other stakeholders – and the role of multi-stakeholder partnerships in delivering these \n\nThe session will culminate in a compendium of solutions/policy recommendations as a resource for Summit follow-up and implementation. \nSystemic exclusion affects many communities — including CDWD\, Indigenous peoples\, migrants\, refugees\, people with disabilities\, racial and ethnic minorities\, and those experiencing homelessness — driven by structural discrimination\, displacement\, climate crises\, and economic precarity. These impacts fall hardest on children and youth\, especially young women. For many\, migration becomes the only option amid collapsing ecosystems\, insecure land rights\, and shrinking labor markets\, yet pathways remain unsafe and exploitative. In the face of these challenges\, CDWD and other excluded youth are leading change: challenging discrimination\, demanding migration justice\, advancing climate resilience\, and shaping rights-based solutions for livelihoods\, land\, and water. Their leadership and solidarity are essential to building societies rooted in dignity\, justice\, and equity. \nObjectives:\n\nIdentify and dismantle systemic barriers faced by communities discriminated on work and descent\, Indigenous peoples\, migrants\, refugees\, and other excluded groups by surfacing community-driven and youth-led solutions that advance decent work\, social inclusion\, and human rights.\nPropose and showcase scalable community- and youth-led innovations – from local to global levels – that address discrimination\, migration justice\, gender inequality and economic exclusion\, with clear pathways for policy adoption and institutionalisation.\nGenerate actionable\, gender-responsive policy solutions rooted in grassroots experiences\, to inform WSSD2 outcomes and align with SDGs on poverty eradication\, decent work and social inclusion.\nFoster international solidarity and resource solutions that work by securing commitments to support community\, women and youth-led solutions through funding\, capacity strengthening and rights-based partnerships at all levels.\n\nFORMAT: \nOpening Remarks (5 mins)  \nSolutions Showcase – Youth and Community Leaders (20 mins) \nPolicy and Partnerships Dialogue (15 mins) \nInteractive Co-creation Segment (15 mins) \nClosing & Way Forward (5 mins) \n \n  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/wss-cdwdyouth/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WSS-Youth-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Moscow:20251105T114500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Moscow:20251105T124500 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20251027T175234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T175234Z UID:10026-1762343100-1762346700@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Featured Event at the Civil Society Forum – World Summit for Social Development DESCRIPTION:Intersectional Justice for Women and Girls: Structural Change and Leadership\n📍 Doha\, Qatar – 5 November 2025\, 11:45 AM–12:45 PM(AST / UTC+3) \nRegister here \nThe Inclusivity Project (TIP)\, in partnership with the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD)\, UN Women\, ERGO Network\, and other global partners\, invites you to a powerful session spotlighting the leadership of women from communities facing descent-based discrimination. \nThis interactive event\, part of the Civil Society Forum during the Second World Summit for Social Development\, will explore how women from Dalit\, Roma\, Haratin\, Quilombola and other communities are driving systemic change through creative storytelling\, policy advocacy\, and community-led action. \nThrough art\, dialogue\, and lived experience\, the session aims to inspire structural transformation and advance intersectional justice\, ensuring no one is left behind in the global pursuit of equality and dignity. \nFor any inquiry about the event do not hesitate to reach out to:Simona Torotcoi (GFoD) – simona@globalforumcdwd.orgKunjani Pariyar Pyasi – pkunjani123@gmail.com URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/featured-event-at-the-civil-society-forum-world-summit-for-social-development/ LOCATION:Room #14\, Exhibition Hall #7\, Doha\, Qatar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WSS-Featured-Event-Women-Girls-V2-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251030 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260116 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20251030T112249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251030T112249Z UID:10038-1761782400-1768521599@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Call for Expressions of Interest: GFoD Civil Society Preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) DESCRIPTION:The Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD) invites civil society organizations (CSOs)\, advocates\, and experts to participate in our 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR) preparation process. This initiative focuses on amplifying the voices of Communities Discriminated by Work and Descent (CDWD) and ensuring their inclusion in the global VNR process.\n\n\n\n\nGFoD’s involvement in the VNRs \nAcross the globe\, communities discriminated on work and descent (CDWD) have been left out of national sustainable development strategies and action plans. Ensuring “No one is left behind” in the developmental planning and implementation of the SDGs is one of the key priorities of the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Decent. \nFor the last few years\, the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Decent as part of the UN Major Groups and Other Stakeholders\, has been engaging in the National Voluntary Reviews (VNRs)\, presenting the viewpoint of our communities across the world (i.e.\, Roma\, Haratins\, Buraku\, Dalits\, Quilombola\, etc.). The Major Groups and Other Stakeholders provide the space for stakeholder engagement around the High Level Political Forum (HLPF). Stakeholders can also engage by: providing inputs to and reviewing drafts of VNRs of their respective countries; representing their constituents as part of government delegations; and participating in the presentation of the VNR to the HLPF. \nThis year we would like to support those civil society representatives and other stakeholders interested in getting involved into their national VNRs\, by providing the in-house knowledge and resources (i.e.\, training) on how to best engage in such advocacy activities from the perspective of communities discriminated on work and descent! \nMore about the VNRs \nAs part of its follow-up and review mechanisms\, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development encourages member States to conduct regular and inclusive reviews of progress at the national and sub-national levels. The Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) aim to facilitate the sharing of experiences\, including successes\, challenges and lessons learned\, with a view to accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. \nFollowing 37 states have expressed interest to carry out voluntary national reviews (VNRs) of their implementation of the 2030 Agenda at the 2026 HLPF: \nAlbania\, Algeria\, Bahrain\, Brazil\, Burkina Faso\, Burundi\, Cabo Verde\, Cameroon\, the Democratic Republic of the Congo\, Egypt\, Estonia\, Gabon\, Guinea\, Guinea-Bissau\, Honduras\, Italy\, Jamaica\, Jordan\, Kiribati\, Liberia\, Malawi\, the Marshall Islands\, Mozambique\, Norway\, the Republic of Moldova\, Rwanda\, Saint Kitts and Nevis\, Saudi Arabia\, Senegal\, Somalia\, Switzerland\, Togo\, Tonga\, Tunisia\, the United Arab Emirates\, the United Republic of Tanzania\, and Uruguay. \n VNR webinars with a focus on Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent \nGFoD offers a comprehensive program to support CDWD-focused civil society engagement in the 2025 VNR process through a series of monthly webinars (online): \nWebinar 1: What is the VNR? Relevance for CDWD \n\nLearn about the VNR process\, its objectives\, and why it is critical for CDWD communities to be represented.\n\nWebinar 2: How You Can Get Involved in Your Country’s VNR? \n\nExplore strategies for engaging with your government\, contributing to consultations\, and mobilizing your networks for VNR participation.\n\nWebinar 3: Integrating the Perspective of CDWD in the VNRs \n\nDiscover how to ensure CDWD perspectives are included in national and thematic VNR reports\, interventions\, and statements.\n\nIf you are a CSO\, advocate\, or expert interested in ensuring CDWD voices are heard in the 2025 VNR process\, register for the Webinar Series to build your understanding and capacity. \nTo express your interest please fill out this form by January 15\, 2026: https://forms.gle/EMcjjkcjQJsjmHMc7 \nAdditionally\, we encourage you to share this invitation and information with all relevant stakeholders who might be interested in contributing to this important initiative. \nYour commitment to this endeavor will play a vital role in ensuring that the perspectives and concerns of civil society are well-represented during the HLPF 2026. \nInterpretation will be provided\, if requested. \nRead more about the 2026 VNRs here: Voluntary National Reviews | High-Level Political Forum \nWe look forward to your active participation and collaboration in this significant effort. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/call-for-expressions-of-interest-gfod-civil-society-preparations-for-the-2026-voluntary-national-reviews-vnrs/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2The-Global-Forum-of-Communities-Discriminated-on-Work-and-Descent-GFoD-invites-civil-society-organisations-advocates-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250630 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250701 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250627T063825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T070030Z UID:9813-1751241600-1751327999@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Fourth Financing for Development Conference – Seville Virtual Event: Advancing Inclusive Development Through Accountable and People-Centered Social Protection DESCRIPTION:Governments and international partners must prioritize social protection systems that are inclusive\, accountable\, and rooted in human rights. This panel explores how participatory frameworks\, budget justice\, and community-led action can help dismantle systemic discrimination—including discrimination based on work and descent (DWD)—and achieve equitable development. \n🤝 Co-organized by: The Inclusivity Project (TIP)\, International Budget Partnership\, Eurodad\, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work & Descent (GFoD) and partners. \n  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/fourth-financing-for-development-conference-seville-virtual-event-advancing-inclusive-development-through-accountable-and-people-centered-social-protection/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/WhatsApp-Image-2025-06-27-at-10.52.03.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Skopje:20250628T163000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Skopje:20250628T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250625T082510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T082510Z UID:9732-1751128200-1751137200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Roma Youth at the Forefront: Promoting Rights\, Inclusion\, and Equality through the SDGs DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Europe-wide virtual event on Roma youth and Sustainable Development Goals! \nRoma Youth at the Forefront: Promoting Rights\, Inclusion\, and Equality through the SDGs \nCo-organized by: GFoD\, ERGO Network\, ternYpe\, and UNMGCY \nDate: 28 June\nTime: 13:00 CET/16:30 IST/11:00 GMT\nVirtual Event – Register here:  https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/wo9dXKvkQEmX0bxPyLw25g \nAcross Europe and beyond\, Roma youth are rising against deeply rooted antigypsyism\, and discrimination based on work and descent. This event will spotlight their efforts and leadership in achieving the SDGs—particularly around poverty\, education\, decent work\, inequality\, and justice. \nThe event will feature inspiring contributions from \nRomina Grigore\, Salzburg Seminar Fellow \nPetr Banda\, Member of the Advisory Council on Youth of the Council of Europe \nBianca Galusca from FAGiC \nSergen Gul\, Romani Godi \nThansis Mitrou\, ActRom \nRepresentatives from TernYpe \nUN Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY). \nWe are also proud to launch two groundbreaking reports authored by Fikrija Tair Selmani and Maria Atanasova\, highlighting the rights and leadership of Roma women! \nHighlights include:\nLaunch of dedicated reports on Roma women and girls in Europe\nInsightful dialogues on work and descent-based discrimination\nBest practices from Roma-led youth movements\nSpotlight on key SDGs for Roma youth\nCertificates of participation will be awarded! \nWe are looking forward to your engagement and participation! URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/roma-youth-at-the-forefront-promoting-rights-inclusion-and-equality-through-the-sdgs/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Youth-Events-Consultations.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250412T033050Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250412T034311Z UID:9606-1744894800-1744909200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:HEAR US NOW: Advancing Inclusion and Justice: Empowering Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) and other marginalised communities\, Including Non-Binary Individuals\, in SDG 16 and SDG 17 DESCRIPTION:HEAR US NOW: Advancing Inclusion and Justice: Empowering Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) and other marginalised communities\, Including Non-Binary Individuals\, in SDG 16 and SDG 17 \nYouth at the Forefront: Leveraging Science and Social Inclusion for Sustainable Development  \nSIDE EVENTS AT THE 2025 ECOSOC YOUTH FORUM \n1. Background\nCommunities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD)\, including non-binary individuals\, have historically faced systemic exclusion\, social stigma\, and structural inequalities that impact their access to justice (SDG 16: Peace\, Justice\, and Strong Institutions) and their ability to participate in partnerships for sustainable development (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals). Discrimination in employment\, education\, governance\, and public services has perpetuated cycles of poverty and denied these communities the fundamental human rights necessary for sustainable development. \nDespite global commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)\, these communities remain largely invisible in policymaking and program implementation. This side event aims to shed light on their challenges and propose concrete policy interventions to ensure that no one is left behind in the realization of SDG 16 and SDG 17. \n  \n2. Objectives of the Side Event\n\nRaise Awareness: Highlight the systemic discrimination faced by CDWD\, including non-binary individuals\, and its impact on access to justice and global partnerships.\nStrengthen Policy Advocacy: Advocate for the inclusion of CDWD in national and international SDG strategies\, with a focus on justice and participatory governance.\nFacilitate Multi-stakeholder Engagement: Engage youth leaders\, policymakers\, UN agencies\, and civil society actors to co-create solutions for inclusive justice systems and meaningful partnerships.\nFoster Youth Participation: Empower young people from CDWD backgrounds\, including non-binary individuals\, to share their experiences and shape policy recommendations.\n\n3. Programme and Speakers/Panelists\nOpening Remarks: \n\nMGCY Representative\nAfrica Youth Expert- Alima Taal\, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent\n\nPanel Discussion: \n\nModerator: Naveen Kumar Gautam(DWD Focal Point-MGCY)\nPanelists:\n\nYouth leader from a CDWD community from Europe-tbc\nHuman rights advocate working on social justice from Asia-Nikita Sonavane\nHealth expert specializing in marginalized communities from Africa- Halimatou Cassey\nRepresentative from a multilateral organization – Baishali\, International Labour Organisation\nRepresentative from Migration Youth and Children Platform-Tony Mullenzi\n\n\n\nInteractive Q&A and Open Discussion \nNeed for a forum working on Rights of CDWD Youth \n\nAsia\nAfrica\nEurope\nLatin Ameica\n\nClosing Remarks: \n\nSummary of key takeaways\nCall to action for policymakers and stakeholders\nNeed for a forum working on Rights of CDWD Youth\n\n4. Guiding Questions for Discussion\n\nWhat are the key barriers to healthcare access for CDWD\, and how can they be addressed through policy interventions?\nHow can SDG 16 and SDG 17 be leveraged to ensure justice and protection for CDWD communities facing discrimination and exclusion?\nWhat role can youth play in advocating for the rights and inclusion of CDWD in national and international SDG policies?\nHow can governments\, civil society\, and international organizations collaborate to create an inclusive framework for SDG implementation?\nWhat best practices exist for integrating CDWD concerns into national development strategies\, and how can they be scaled?\n\n5. Venue – Virtual: Zoom\nRegistration Link: https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/JgcsoUh0QwiAEdLh9QlXpw URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/advancing-inclusion-and-justice-empowering-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-cdwd-and-other-marginalised-communities-including-non-binary-individuals/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T131500 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250412T033835Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250412T034537Z UID:9613-1744809300-1744815600@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:“Hear Us Now: Harnessing Science for Decent Work and Economic Inclusion of CDWD Youth" DESCRIPTION:Youth at the Forefront: Leveraging Science and Social Inclusion for Sustainable Development” \nSIDE EVENTS AT THE 2025 ECOSOC YOUTH FORUM \nBackground: \nCommunities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) face systemic exclusion\, economic marginalization\, and barriers to decent work (SDG 8). Science\, technology\, and innovation have the potential to break these cycles of discrimination by creating inclusive economic opportunities\, fostering digital empowerment\, and promoting equitable access to resources. \nDespite the challenges\, CDWD Youth are attempting this transformation\, leveraging Science with social inclusion strategies advocating to build a more sustainable and just world. This side event highlights youth-led solutions that promote economic justice\, decent work\, and social equity for marginalized communities. \nObjectives: \nShowcase youth-driven innovations using science\, technology\, and social inclusion to address discrimination in employment and economic participation. \nDiscuss the role of Science and Technology in education\, entrepreneurship\, and digital inclusion in breaking generational poverty and exclusion among CDWD. \nProvide a platform for youth voices to share best practices and advocate for policies that integrate marginalized groups into sustainable development frameworks. \nFoster networking and collaboration between youth\, policymakers\, development agencies\, and civil society organizations while attempting to break barriers within and build bridges between the youth of a diverse background. \nProposed Schedule: \nEvent Format & Key Components (90 minutes)\n\nOpening Remarks (12 min)\n\nModerator introduction and event objectives. (4mins)- Sri Yash Tadailmala\, SPI Youth Platform\, MGCY\nKeynote speech by a CDWD youth leader or policy expert on leveraging science and social inclusion for decent work and economic justice (SDG 8). (8mins)- Naveen Gautam\, GFP\, MGCY and The Inclusivity Project\n\n\n\n\nPanel Discussion: Youth-Led Innovations for Inclusive Development (40 min)\nYouth experts discuss:\n✔ Tech for Economic Justice. Impact of AI and Digital tools in generating Decent work opportunity for youth from CDWD and other marginalised communities.-8 min- Sachidanand\n\n✔ Inclusive ST Education for CDWD youth: breaking barriers for CDWD youth to access quality education and employment.-8 min- Kunjani Pariyar \n✔ Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation – Youth-led businesses tackling economic exclusion and promoting sustainable livelihoods.- TBC \n✔ Policy & Advocacy – Bridging science and social inclusion to support fair labor practices and employment rights.-8 min- Natalia \n\nNeed to discuss about Goal 17\n\nHow can governments\, international organizations\, and civil society collaborate to create inclusive labor policies for CDWD youth? \nWhat role can intergovernmental partnerships (UN\, ILO\, etc.) play in ensuring fair wages\, social protection\, and labor rights for marginalized communities? \n\nPanelists from Asia(Deepesh)\, Africa(Zienabou)\, Europe(TBC) and Latin America(JEAN): CDWD Youth advocates\, social entrepreneurs and  research experts.(TBC)\n\nOpen floor – Q&A and Discussion – think of some discussion points – what are the challenges  faced by Youth  and how are they being addressed?. (20 mins) \n\nWhat financial and structural challenges prevent young entrepreneurs from scaling their impact and contributing effectively to SDG 8\, particularly in underprivileged communities?\nCan you share examples of successful programs or policies that have helped marginalized youth gain access to quality Science and Technology education and employment?\nHow are youth-led businesses and social enterprises creating sustainable economic opportunities for marginalized communities?\n\nCall to Action\, Policy Recommendation & Networking (20 min)-Break out rooms \n  \n\nDiscussion on stakeholder support for youth-led efforts toward decent work and economic growth (SDG 8).\nAudience Q&A and commitments for inclusive sustainable development.\nCollaboration opportunities and brief discussion on forming a CDWD youth forum.\nWhat do we take to HLPF and World Social Summit as CDWD youth?\n\n\nGuiding Questions for discussion/s\n\n\nHow can emerging technologies (AI digital platforms) be leveraged to create decent work opportunities (SDG 8) for marginalized communities\, including CDWD?\nCan you share examples of successful programs or policies that have helped marginalized youth gain access to quality Science and Technology education and employment?\nHow are youth-led businesses and social enterprises creating sustainable economic opportunities for marginalized communities?\nWhat financial or structural support do young entrepreneurs need to scale their impact and contribute to SDG 8?\nWhat policy recommendations would you give to governments and international organizations to ensure fair labor practices and equal economic opportunities for CDWD youth?\n\n Venue: Online (Zoom) \n   Time: 90 minutes \nINTERPRETATION AVAILABLE IN FRENCH AND PORTUGUESE \nRegistration link: https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/MQa37WQPT0Crxaf-jqb0iw URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/hear-us-now-harnessing-science-for-decent-work-and-economic-inclusion-of-cdwd-youth/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250403T130000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20250403T143000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250327T172444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T031424Z UID:9586-1743685200-1743690600@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Empowering Roma Women: Advancing Gender Equality and Inclusion in the Context of SDG 5 DESCRIPTION: Roma women continue to face discrimination and marginalization\nacross Europe\, experiencing gender inequality and intersectional discrimination.\nThis exclusion limits their ability to contribute to sustainable development. SDG 5\ncalls for gender equality\, recognizing it as essential for sustainable development.\nThe event will address the challenges Roma women face and explore solutions to\npromote their inclusion in SDGs through policies and initiatives ensuring equal\naccess to opportunities. \nContext: This event comes at a pivotal moment as we continue to strive toward achieving the United\nNations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)\, particularly SDG 5\, which calls for gender\nequality and the empowerment of all women and girls. However\, Roma women across\nEurope remain among the most marginalized and discriminated against\, facing both gender\ninequality and intersectional discrimination.\nThis exclusion limits not only their personal opportunities but also hinders broader progress\ntowards sustainable development. To address these challenges\, we must ensure that the\nvoices of Roma women are included in shaping the future of our societies and that their\nrights are fully recognized within the framework of SDG 5.\nThis event will further allow us to highlight the challenges faced by Roma women\,\nparticularly in relation to the Beijing Platform for Action +30 reviews. These reports\, which\nexamine the progress and gaps in implementing the Beijing Declaration and Platform for\nAction\, have consistently shown that Roma women are excluded from national policy\nmeasures at the national level and continue to face significant barriers in education\,\nemployment\, healthcare\, and political participation. These gaps must be addressed if we are\nto fulfill the promises of gender equality made decades ago.\nMoreover\, it’s important to acknowledge the efforts made by regional and international\nbodies\, such as the European Union and the Council of Europe\, in supporting Roma\ninclusion. The EU Roma Strategic Framework for Equality\, Inclusion\, and Participation\,\nwhich outlines the European Union's commitment to improving the lives of Roma people\,\nincludes critical objectives to combat discrimination and enhance opportunities for Roma\nwomen. Yet\, despite these frameworks\, the full realization of equality for Roma women\nremains an ongoing struggle. This event seeks to bridge these gaps by bringing together\npolicymakers\, civil society\, and Roma women themselves to discuss actionable solutions for\nmeaningful inclusion. Furthermore\, the Council of Europe has long been involved in\nadvancing the rights of Roma women\, advocating for legal reforms and policies that address\ngender-based violence\, economic inclusion\, and political participation. This includes pushing\nfor Roma women to be meaningfully represented in political spaces and decision-making\nbodies\, ensuring that their needs are not overlooked in the development of policies and laws.\nThe OSCE Action Plan for Roma and Sinti offers a strong framework that aims to enhance\nthe protection of Roma and Sinti rights\, with specific focus on their inclusion in the political\,\nsocial\, and economic spheres. It also highlights the need for targeted measures to address\nthe specific challenges Roma women face in their daily lives. This Plan underscores the\nimportance of education\, employment\, healthcare\, and anti-discrimination measures — all of\nwhich are vital to achieving equality for Roma women.\nThis event aims to build on these frameworks and commitments\, focusing on how we can\nmake SDG 5 a reality for Roma women. We will discuss the intersectional barriers they face\,\nexplore regional and national solutions\, and work together to ensure that Roma women are\nfully included in sustainable development processes. \n——–\nAgenda\nWelcome and Introductions (10 minutes) Marija Sulejmanova\, Romalitico\nRoma Women Experiences on the Ground (25 minutes) \n– Speakers TBC\nActivist and personal testimonies from Roma women across different regions\n(Ukraine\, UK\, Turkey\, Albania\, Spain) who will share their work and lived\nexperiences with gender inequality and intersectional discrimination. This\nsection aims to provide a human perspective on the challenges Roma women\nface and illustrate the need for inclusive policies. \nRegional and national-level measures and gaps (40 minutes) \n– Speakers TBC: National Gender Equality Agencies\, OSCE\, Council of\nEurope\, UN Women\nThis section will examine current policies and initiatives addressing gender\nequality and inclusion of Roma women at the regional and national levels.\nKey speakers from institutions highlight the strengths and gaps in these\nefforts. This session will focus on identifying the barriers that still prevent\nRoma women from accessing opportunities and how they can be addressed\nthrough policy reform.\nConcluding remarks: (10 minutes) \n– Speakers TBC: CEDAW members\, UN Special Rapporteurs\nA high-level summary of the key findings from the discussions and a call to\naction. This section will highlight the importance of continued efforts to\ninclude Roma women in SDG-related decision-making and the need for\ncollaboration between various stakeholders to ensure long-term progress. \nDiscussion: Attendees engage with panellists (10 minutes) \nOpen discussion between attendees and panellists to address any remaining\nquestions\, insights\, or suggestions for further action. This section provides\nspace for participants to share their perspectives and engage directly with the\nexperts and speakers. \nSummary of key takeaways and next steps for continued advocacy and collaboration (5\nminutes) \nA final recap of the event’s main points\, with a focus on actionable next steps.\nThis section will encourage participants to commit to concrete actions for\nRoma women’s inclusion in future SDG-related initiatives and collaborative\nefforts. It will also highlight the need for ongoing advocacy and collaboration\nbeyond the event. \n● Date & Time: April 3\, 2025\, Lunch slot (1:15 – 2:45 PM)\n● Registration: Meeting Registration – Zoom \n  \n  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/empowering-roma-women-advancing-gender-equality-and-inclusion-in-the-context-of-sdg-5/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Centering-Women-and-Girls-in-the-Global-Movement-of-Communities-Discriminated-on-Work-and-Descent-CDWD-A-Policy-Imperative-9.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T183000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250305T053409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T110727Z UID:9540-1742400000-1742409000@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Centering Women and Girls in growing global movement from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) – A Policy Imperative DESCRIPTION:Background\nCommunities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) encompass diverse groups worldwide who face systemic marginalization due to inherited social status\, often tied to stigmatized ancestral occupations. These groups include the Roma in Europe\, Dalits in South Asia\, Burakumin in Far East Asia\, Osu\, Mboros\, and Haratins in Africa\, Quilombola in Brazil\, and Palenque in Colombia\, among others. Collectively\, they represent over 270 million people globally\, suffering from exclusion\, poverty\, violence\, and restricted access to fundamental rights and services.  \nCurrent international human rights frameworks do not address the unique and specific types of discrimination experienced by Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent. For more than two decades\, stakeholder groups and civil society have been advocating for group-specific norms for CDWD at the UN to protect human rights and guarantee their civil\, economic\, cultural\, and political participation. \nContext\nDespite various international frameworks aiming to combat discrimination and promote gender equality\, women from CDWD remain among the most marginalized. These women are disproportionately affected by poverty\, lack of education\, limited access to healthcare\, and underrepresentation in decision-making processes. The intersectionality of gender\, caste\, race\, and socio-economic status exacerbates their vulnerability\, leading to severe human rights violations\, including gender-based violence and economic exploitation.  \nAddressing the challenges faced by women from communities discriminated on work and descent is not only a matter of justice but also essential for achieving global gender equality. UN Women and GFoD’s policy brief on CDWD Women calls for a coordinated effort by the UN nations system\, governments\, and civil society to create an inclusive and equitable environment where these women can thrive. \nEvent Overview\nThis side event at CSW 2025\, co-hosted by UN Women and the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD)\, will seek input for a groundbreaking policy brief highlighting the unique challenges and transformative potential of women from CDWD. The event will underscore the importance of implementing the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) to address the intersecting forms of discrimination faced by over 270 million people globally\, focusing on grassroots women from communities like the Dalits\, Roma\, Haratins\, Quilombola\, Burakumin\, and others. \nObjectives\nPresent key findings and actionable recommendations from the policy brief. \nHighlight the systemic discrimination and challenges faced by CDWD women. \nEngage stakeholders in advancing intersectional policies and practices aligned with the Beijing Declaration. \nElevate the voices and contributions of grassroots CDWD women leaders. \nPresent an overview of findings and policy brief recommendations  \nReflections and feedback on the findings and recommendations \nSpeakers include: \n\nNational Governments representatives\nPermanent Mission representatives\nCERD Members\nCEDAW members\nMarie-Elena John\, Global Senior Racial Justice Lead\, UN Women\nLaura Nyirinkindi\, chair\, UN WG DAWG\n\n\nPallical\, Chair\, Asia Dalit Rights Forum\nElena Sirbu\, ERGO Network/Roma Women Platform ROMNI\, Moldova\nGrijesh Dinker\, National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights\, India\nQueen Bisseng\, GFoD UN Programme Specialist\, Cameroon\n\nExpected Outcomes\n\nIncreased understanding of the challenges faced by CDWD women and the urgency of action.\nStakeholders commit to implementing the policy brief’s recommendations.\nEnhanced collaboration between grassroots organizations\, international agencies\, and policymakers.\nElevated profile of CDWD women’s issues in global gender equality discourse\n\n  \nDate and Time:19th of March 2025\, UN Women\, 16:30-18:00 PM (and online via Zoom) \nRegistration link: Breaking Barriers: Women from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD)  \n  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/breaking-barriers-women-from-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-cdwd-a-policy-imperative/ LOCATION:UN Women and Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Latest.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T163000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250316T183811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250316T183811Z UID:9554-1742394600-1742401800@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Empowering Women\, Ending Work and Descent-Based Discrimination: Pathways to Equality and Inclusion DESCRIPTION:Background and Rationale\n\n\n\nDiscrimination Based on Work and Descent (DWD) affects more than 270 million people worldwide\, with about 15 million Roma and other diaspora communities in Europe\, such as Dalits and Haratins. CDWD are regarded as the most vulnerable groups in terms of social\, economic\, and political development. They experience intersectional discrimination and oppression because of overlapping social constructs of ability\, age\, work\, caste\, class\, ethnicity\, social status\, and gender. Many times women belonging to the DWD communities are left behind in advancing the gender equality agenda. CDWD women still face discrimination through social exclusion\, poor access to education\, public services and infrastructure. This results in CDWD women not only left out of the gender equality agenda but also in being able to advance their status. \nHowever\, State Parties and other stakeholders have taken some measures to address the issue. This side event will serve as a platform for dialogue among Member States\, civil society\, and other stakeholders to discuss national-level reviews conducted in 2024 on the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action (BPfA) and the 12 Critical Areas of Concern. The event aims to share best practices\, challenges\, and innovative solutions from diverse national contexts.  \nObjectives: \n\nHighlight national-level progress made in implementing BPfA commitments.\nShare lessons learned\, challenges\, and innovative practices from the 2024 national reviews.\nStrengthen dialogue and partnerships between Member States\, civil society\, and other stakeholders to address persistent gaps in achieving gender equality\, with a focus on CDWD women\n\nThis event aims to spotlight the issue of diversity and inclusion of the rights of CDWD women. This event ensures that their lived experiences are highlighted at the international level\, creating pathways for more inclusive and responsive global frameworks. The event highlights the critical need to address these overlapping oppressions and ensure equitable access to decent jobs\, social protections\, and opportunities. This event will bring together representatives from CDWD communities\, Member States\, and UN agencies to discuss strategies for advancing equality for CDWD women. \n\n\n\nExpected outcomes\n\n\n\n\nAcceleration of efforts to include CDWD women in the global gender equality agenda. The event will highlight the gaps in current policies and advocate for more inclusive approaches that prioritize the women from CDWD. \n\n\nStrengthened partnerships and collaboration among international organizations\, governments\, and civil society stakeholders to work together on CDWD women.\n\n\nGreater awareness and visibility of the unique challenges faced by CDWD women\, particularly\, Roma\, Dalit\, and other women in Africa.\n\n\nFormulation of concrete policy recommendations for national governments\, regional and international organizations\, and other stakeholders.\n\nWednesday\, March 19\, 2025   \n2:30 PM – 4:00 PM ET\, Church Center of the UN\, 8th Floor \nZoom https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Qhs5zNV7TnGxYDdOoIwxig  \n\n\n\nAgenda \n\n\n\nWelcome and Introductions (10 minutes)  \nTerezia Rostas\, Welcoming Cultures\, UK \nOpening remarks (10 minutes)  \nPaul Divakar\, Convenor GFoD  \nKeynote address (10 minutes) \nH.E. Mrs. Suela Janina – Permanent Representative of Albania to the United Nations \nCDWD Women Experiences on the Ground (30 minutes)  \nSimona Torotcoi\, ERGO Network\, Romania \nQueen Bisseng\, GFoD Africa\, Cameroon \nGrijesh Dinker\, NCDHR\, India \nDiscussion: Attendees engage with panellists (10 minutes) \nSummary of key takeaways and next steps for continued advocacy and collaboration (5 minutes) URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/empowering-women-ending-work-and-descent-based-discrimination-pathways-to-equality-and-inclusion/ LOCATION:United Nations Church Center\, New York ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/482795403_1710219323175939_2254359507278624644_n.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250313T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250313T143000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250221T112631Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250312T115349Z UID:9531-1741869000-1741876200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Empowering Grassroots Women Discriminated on Work and Descent: Advancing the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) DESCRIPTION:Background and Rationale : Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) encompass diverse groups worldwide who face systemic marginalization due to inherited social status\, often tied to stigmatized ancestral occupations. These groups include the Roma in Europe\, Dalits in South Asia\, Burakumin in Far East Asia\, Osu\, Mboros\, and Haratins in Africa\, Quilombola in Brazil\, and Palenque in Colombia\, among others. Collectively\, they represent over 270 million people globally\, suffering from exclusion\, poverty\, violence\, and restricted access to fundamental rights and services. Women within these communities experience intersecting forms of discrimination\, exacerbating their vulnerabilities and hindering their participation in social\, economic\, and political spheres. \nThe Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) provides a comprehensive framework to advance gender equality and empower all women. However\, the aspirations of this landmark document remain unrealized for grassroots women from CDWD. Addressing their unique challenges is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fulfilling the Beijing Declaration’s vision. \nObjectives: \n\nHighlight the lived experiences of grassroots women from CDWD and the specific barriers they face.\nShowcase successful initiatives and strategies for empowering these women\, particularly through local leadership\, advocacy\, and grassroots mobilization.\nAdvocate for strengthened international and domestic policies aligned with the Beijing Declaration to address the intersecting inequalities faced by CDWD women.\nFoster dialogue among stakeholders\, including grassroots leaders\, civil society\, policymakers\, and international organizations\, to develop actionable recommendations.\n\nThis event aims to spotlight the issue of diversity and inclusion of the rights of CDWD women\, focusing on Haratine women (Association des Haratine de Mauritanie en Europe)\, Roma women (ERGO Network)\, Quiloambola  (CONAQ)\, Osu women (IFETACSIOS\, Nigeria)\, Palenque and Dalit women (Asia Dalit Rights Forum) across the world. This event ensures that their lived experiences are highlighted at the international level\, creating pathways for more inclusive and responsive global frameworks. \nThe key innovative element of this event is that it provides a platform\, a space for women discriminated against on work and descent that they have been so far deprived of. Bringing their voices in the UN space not only allows for their unique challenges to be acknowledged\, but also actively involves them in shaping policies that affect their lives. \nExpected Outcomes \n\nIncreased awareness of the unique challenges faced by grassroots women from CDWD and the importance of their inclusion in global gender equality initiatives.\nEnhanced understanding of the Beijing Declaration’s relevance to CDWD women and its implementation gaps.\nPractical recommendations for stakeholders to strengthen policies\, programs\, and advocacy efforts for CDWD women.\nStrengthened networks among grassroots leaders\, civil society\, and policymakers to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing.\nAcceleration of efforts to include CDWD women in the global gender equality agenda. The event will highlight the gaps in current policies and advocate for more inclusive approaches that prioritize the women from CDWD.\nStrengthened partnerships and collaboration among international organizations\, governments\, and civil society stakeholders to work together on CDWD women.\nGreater awareness and visibility of the unique challenges faced by CDWD women\, particularly Quilombola\, Palenque\, Roma\, Dalit\, Hartine\, Osu and other  CDWD women in Africa.\nFormulation of concrete policy recommendations for national governments\, regional and international organizations\, and other stakeholders.\n\nPlease click here to register  \nDate and time: 13 March 2025 12:30 New York time \nFor proposed Agenda\, click here \nFocal points: Torotcoi Simona\, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (Lead Organizer) \nEmail: simona@globalforumcdwd.org URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/empowering-grassroots-women-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-advancing-the-beijing-declaration-and-platform-for-action-1995/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Save-the-Dates-CSW69-6.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20250219T150000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20250219T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20250214T110306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T111108Z UID:9510-1739977200-1739984400@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Addressing Caste-Based Hierarchies in Africa and Asia DESCRIPTION:As we continue striving toward caste-free societies\, a landmark moment in 2024 was the adoption of a groundbreaking resolution by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. This historic resolution on  PROTECTION AND PROMOTION OF THE RIGHTS OF COMMUNITIES DISCRIMINATED BY\, WORK AND DESCENT (CDWD) IN AFRICA – ACHPR/Res.619 (LXXXI) 2024 \, was passed during the Commission’s 81st Ordinary Session in Banjul from October 17 to November 6\, 2024\, marks a significant step forward in the global fight against caste-based discrimination.  \nThe Commission while passing the resolution acknowledged the existence of caste based discrimination across Africa . The resolution reads that the commission is “….Alarmed by the persistence of discrimination based on work and descent nearly 40 years after the operationalization of the African Charter“…… “commits to conduct a continental study on the situation of communities discriminated against based on work and descent including underlying causes\, manifestations\, and impacts of discriminatory practices)\,…… to thoroughly examine discriminatory practices across the African region\, and share the findings with States Party and relevant African Union organs and agencies…” \nTaking the discussions forward\, GFoD is inviting you to be part of the dialogue: Addressing Caste-Based Hierarchies in Africa and Asia. This dialogue aims to critically examine the ACHPR resolution and the presence of caste-based hierarchies across Asia\, Africa\, and globally. It will further explore diverse manifestations of descent-based historic and continuing discrimination\, in wealth and asset ownership\, formal and informal jobs\, access to quality education and skill enhancement among other such means of social mobility and assess how this resolution can serve as a model for other regions—particularly in Asia\, Africa\, and globally—and identify strategies for advancing a UN Declaration to eradicate the present effects of historic and continuing discrimination. Additionally\, the session will emphasize effective policy intervention by the state for redressing historic harm\, combating contemporary discrimination\, including reparations\, compensation\, budget allocations\, affirmative action\, and other policy mechanisms. \nPanelist: Ms. Queen Bisseng\,  Regional Coordinator\, Africa\,  GFoD\, is a leading advocate for the rights of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) in Africa and played a vital role in the adoption of the African Commission’s resolution. Joining her as the second speaker is Mr. Paul Divakar Namala\, Convener\, GFoD\, who has been at the forefront of the global CDWD movement. The session will be moderated by Prof. Amit Thorat\, a distinguished scholar from the Center for Study on Regional Development\, JNU\, whose extensive research on caste-based discrimination across Asia has had a profound impact \nDate:19th Feb 2025 \nMode: Hybrid \nOffline: Location: Board Room\, National Foundation of India\, Indian Habitat Centre\, New Delhi \nFor Online\, please register here. \nTimings: 3:00 PM to 5 PM URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/addressing-caste-based-hierarchies-in-africa-and-asia/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19th-Feb_.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20250213T173000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20250213T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20241127T193639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241129T173530Z UID:9224-1739467800-1739473200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Turning Up the Heat: Moulding Hardened 'Cast(e)-in-Iron' Social Norms into Inclusive Shapes through Social Inclusion and Cohesion as We Look Towards the Achievement of the Copenhagen Declaration and Towards the World Social Summit  DESCRIPTION:Proposed side event during Commission for Social Development (CSocD63)\, 10-14 February 2025 (exact time and date will be announced by CSoCD63 secretariat) \nThis event is co-organized by UN United Nations Population Fund (TBC)\, Permanent Mission of Germany (TBC)\, the Permanent Mission of Nepal (TBC)\, the Permanent Mission of North Macedonia to the UN as well as The Inclusivity Project (TIP)\, the NGO Committee on Social Development\, and key organizations advocating for marginalized communities\, including the European Roma Grassroots Organisations Network (ERGO Network)\, the National Coordination of Rural Black Quilombola Communities (CONAQ – Coordenação Nacional de Articulação das Comunidades Negras Rurais Quilombolas)\, the African Network on Discrimination based on Work and Descent and Contemporary Forms of Slavery (ANDS)\, and the National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR). \nDescent Communities\, representing approximately 270 million people worldwide\, span diverse cultural and geographic contexts yet face systemic exclusion from fundamental human rights and freedoms. These communities\, shaped by inherited status and entrenched stratification\, include groups such as the Haratin\, Jongo\, Mbororos\, and Komo in Africa; Quilombolas and Palenques in Latin America; Dalits and Burakumin in Asia; and the Roma community in Europe and beyond. Despite their unique identities\, they share a common struggle against deep-rooted social norms and practices that perpetuate inequality and deny them full societal participation. \nThis side event aims to uncover actionable solutions to dismantle these barriers and advance the implementation of the Copenhagen Declaration while preparing for the Second World Social Summit in 2025. By addressing the challenges faced by Descent Communities\, the event will showcase good practices developed by civil society organizations\, UN agencies\, and Member States. These include targeted budgetary provisions\, dedicated census categories\, and employment frameworks already championed by some governments and UN bodies. It will also explore how regional and global mechanisms can align with the growing recognition of Communities Discriminated by Work and Descent (CDWD) as central to achieving global social justice. \nRecent milestones illustrate this momentum. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR)—an organ of the African Union—adopted its first-ever resolution addressing the rights of CDWD in Africa (ACHPR/Res.619 (LXXXI) 2024) during its 81st Ordinary Session in Banjul in November 2024. Another significant development was the recognition of CDWD as a UN Major Group and Other Stakeholders under General Assembly Resolution 67/290 in 2021. These achievements reflect a growing international commitment to addressing systemic exclusion and ensuring dignity and equity for CDWD communities. \nThe exclusion of Descent Communities is deeply tied to their characterization as “low caste” or “outcasts\,” perpetuated by notions of “purity and pollution\,” enforced endogamy\, and physical segregation. These unwritten cultural norms form a complex web that obstructs progress toward the Copenhagen Declaration’s goals. Women and girls within these communities are particularly vulnerable\, facing compounded challenges such as limited access to education\, healthcare\, and economic opportunities. Practices like “Wahaya” in Niger\, where women from “low caste” communities are acquired as unofficial or “fifth wives\,” exemplify the gender-based violence and systemic discrimination that deny their humanity and perpetuate cycles of inequality. \nAddressing these inequities requires urgent interventions\, including prioritizing sexual and reproductive health services\, investing in data collection and research to amplify initiatives\, and making these realities visible. Documenting and disseminating successful interventions\, such as education campaigns to combat stigma\, community-led development projects\, and targeted economic inclusion programs\, can inform scalable strategies and inspire systemic change. \nTo achieve the Copenhagen Declaration’s commitments and prepare for the Second World Social Summit\, governments\, in collaboration with civil society\, must design inclusive policies informed by evidence and good practices. Comprehensive anti-discrimination laws\, strengthened social protection systems\, and representation of CDWD in governance are critical components of this effort. Recognition and action must extend across all human rights mechanisms\, ensuring that CDWD communities are not left behind in efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. \nThis side event will foster dialogue\, explore innovative approaches\, and emphasize the urgency of solidarity and inclusion as tools to dismantle hardened “cast(e)-in-iron” norms. As we look toward the Second World Social Summit\, these efforts are essential to forging a future where all communities can fully and equally participate in society’s progress. \n  \nDate and Time: 13 February 2025 (TBC)-1.15 – 2.30 pm \n  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/csocd63-caste-in-iron/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241129 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241216 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20241129T051435Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241129T051627Z UID:9226-1732838400-1734307199@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Call for Expressions of Interest: GFoD Civil Society Preparations for the 2025 Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) DESCRIPTION:The Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD) invites civil society organizations (CSOs)\, advocates\, and experts to participate in our 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) preparation process. This initiative focuses on amplifying the voices of Communities Discriminated by Work and Descent (CDWD) and ensuring their inclusion in the global VNR process. \nGFoD’s involvement in the VNRs \nAcross the globe\, communities discriminated on work and descent (CDWD) have been left out of national sustainable development strategies and action plans. Ensuring “No one is left behind” in the developmental planning and implementation of the SDGs is one of the key priorities of the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Decent. \nFor the last few years\, the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Decent as part of the UN Major Groups and Other Stakeholders\, has been engaging in the National Voluntary Reviews (VNRs)\, presenting the viewpoint of our communities across the world (i.e.\, Roma\, Haratins\, Buraku\, Dalits\, Quilombola\, etc.). The Major Groups and Other Stakeholders provide the space for stakeholder engagement around the High Level Political Forum (HLPF). Stakeholders can also engage by: providing inputs to and reviewing drafts of VNRs of their respective countries; representing their constituents as part of government delegations; and participating in the presentation of the VNR to the HLPF. \nThis year we would like to support those civil society representatives and other stakeholders interested in getting involved into their national VNRs\, by providing the in-house knowledge and resources (i.e.\, training) on how to best engage in such advocacy activities from the perspective of communities discriminated on work and descent! \nMore about the VNRs \nAs part of its follow-up and review mechanisms\, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development encourages member States to conduct regular and inclusive reviews of progress at the national and sub-national levels. The Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) aim to facilitate the sharing of experiences\, including successes\, challenges and lessons learned\, with a view to accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. \nFollowing states have expressed interest to carry out voluntary national reviews (VNRs) of their implementation of the 2030 Agenda at the 2025 HLPF: Angola\, Bulgaria\, Israel\, Kyrgyzstan\, Malta\, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)\, Papua New Guinea (PNG)\, Saint Lucia\, Seychelles\, South Africa\, the State of Palestine\, Suriname\, the Bahamas\, Bangladesh\, Belarus\, Bhutan\, the Czech Republic\, the Dominican Republic\, El Salvador\, Eswatini\, Ethiopia\, Finland\, the Gambia\, Germany\, Ghana\, India\, Iraq\, Japan\, Jordan\, Kazakhstan\, Lesotho\, Malaysia\, Nigeria\, the Sudan\, Thailand\, Guatemala\, Indonesia\, the Philippines\, and Qatar. \nCDWD focused VNR webinars  \nGFoD offers a comprehensive program to support CDWD-focused civil society engagement in the 2025 VNR process through a series of monthly webinars (online): \nWebinar 1: What is the VNR? Relevance for CDWD \n\nLearn about the VNR process\, its objectives\, and why it is critical for CDWD communities to be represented.\n\nWebinar 2: How You Can Get Involved in Your Country’s VNR? \n\nExplore strategies for engaging with your government\, contributing to consultations\, and mobilizing your networks for VNR participation.\n\nWebinar 3: Integrating the Perspective of CDWD in the VNRs \n\nDiscover how to ensure CDWD perspectives are included in national and thematic VNR reports\, interventions\, and statements.\n\nIf you are a CSO\, advocate\, or expert interested in ensuring CDWD voices are heard in the 2025 VNR process\, register for the Webinar Series to build your understanding and capacity. \nTo express your interest please fill out this form by December 15\, 2024: https://forms.gle/5UCGVVNDiF9XAhVd6  \n Additionally\, we encourage you to share this invitation and information with all relevant stakeholders who might be interested in contributing to this important initiative. \nYour commitment to this endeavor will play a vital role in ensuring that the perspectives and concerns of civil society are well-represented during the HLPF 2025.  \nInterpretation in  French will be provided. \nRead more about the 2025 VNRs here: Voluntary National Reviews | High-Level Political Forum \nWe look forward to your active participation and collaboration in this significant effort. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/call-for-expressions-of-interest-gfod-civil-society-preparations-for-the-2025-voluntary-national-reviews-vnrs/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/VNR-2025-Flyer.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241128T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241128T150000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20241119T063149Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241127T090137Z UID:9183-1732798800-1732806000@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Representation of Descent-Communities in public spaces and discourses: Focus on challenges and opportunities for youth from decent based communities DESCRIPTION:CDWD Youth Side Event at Minority Rights Forum 2024 \nRepresentation of  Descent-Communities in public spaces and discourses: focus on challenges and opportunities for youth from descent based communities  \nSide event Forum on Minority Issues \n28 November from 13:00 to 14:00 in Room XXV in Palais des Nations \nThis side event will focus on the theme of the 2024 Forum on Minority Issues on the representation and self-representation of minorities in public spaces and discourses. This is of particular importance to descent-based communities who continue to face severe forms of hate speech\, scapegoating\, negative portrayal\, inability to self represent in the public space\, or in the media to shape their own narratives. Descent communities are subjected to dehumanising discourses referring to pollution or untouchability; and a generalised lack of respect for their human dignity and equality. \n  \nDescent-based discrimination exists across the globe affecting almost 270 million people. They include Dalits in South Asia; Burakumin in Japan; Roma in Europe\, Haratine\, Osu caste system and other communities in West Africa; Quilombola and Palenque in Latin America and diaspora living globally. Descent-based discrimination is unique within the minority space. \n\nIn that regard\, the unique form of practices of discrimination faced by Descent-based communities within the global human rights framework requires a special focus. They are marginalised and excluded like other ethnic\, minority or indigenous groups; but also occupy a distinct space\, sometimes within those very marginalised and excluded groups based on the practices of discrimination they face. These include fundamental violations of their human rights on the basis of various factors including inability to alter inherited status; socially enforced restrictions on marriage outside the community; private and public segregation\, including in housing and education\, access to public spaces\, places of worship and public sources of food and water; limitation of freedom to renounce inherited occupations or degrading or hazardous work; subjection to debt bondage.There is an urgent need to carve out specific norms to address the unique and particular experience of discrimination faced by descent-communities.  \nSporadic individual representation and recognition exist but falls short of the universally practised experience these communities face.Amongst the discriminated communities\, it is pertinent to note that women and non-binary folks experience further marginalisation and must be accounted for in the larger framework of Minority rights. Youth from descent communities face these challenges with amplified intensity\, as systemic barriers and deep-seated prejudices significantly limit their ability to participate fully in public and political spaces. The lack of self-representation only exacerbates their marginalisation\, as their voices and unique perspectives are often absent from decision-making forums. This discrimination translates into political disempowerment\, economic hardship\, and social exclusion\, perpetuating a cycle that denies them both their rights and their rightful place in society.This includes their right to self-represent and be represented without fear and persecution; and with respect for their human dignity. \nModerator: Paul Divakar Namala (Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent\, GFoD).  \nSpeakers: \n\nProf. Nicolas Levrat\, Special Rapporteur on minority issues\nSukhbir Thind \,Youth Advocacy Officer – Plan International \nDr.Nimalka Fernando (International Movement Against All Forms of Racism and Discrimination\, IMDR)\nKunjini Pariyar – Rights Expert Nepal\, Fellow OHCHR Minority Rights Fellowship\nHassane Eidja\, Initiative de Resurgence du movement Abolitionniste (IRA)\, OHCHR Fellow\, Mauritania\nVira Dranhoi (OHCHR Minority Rights Fellow)\n\nLink for registration : https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZArceCgqz4oHdGdItvDaQNsWlPDR_2-ixCP URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/empowering-the-future-strengthening-representation-and-participation-of-youth-from-minority-and-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-issues-challenges-and-opportunities-for-change/ LOCATION:Room XXV in Palais des Nations.\, United Nation Head Quaters\, Geneva\, Switzerland ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/BHR-2024-16.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Zurich:20241127T131500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Zurich:20241127T143000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20241022T095203Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241107T120926Z UID:9054-1732713300-1732717800@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Realising a smart mix of measures for Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent in the context of business activities. DESCRIPTION:Across the globe\, almost 270 million people are discriminated against\, based on their present or ancestral occupation\, descent or inherited status\, such as caste. Collectively\, they are known as Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent .They include Dalits in South Asia; Burakumin in Japan; Roma in Europe\, Haratine\, Osu and other communities in West Africa; Quilombola and Palenque in Latin America and diaspora living globally. They are the most marginalised and excluded in political\, social\, and economic development. Their marginal status is exacerbated further in the context of business activity intersecting with discrimination\, leaving them powerless; vulnerable to bonded labour\, modern slavery\, child labour and hazardous work. Women from these communities experience higher rates of poverty and discrimination and mostly end up in the informal economy without basic social and work protections.  \nThis session will explore the impact of business activity in the context of deep-rooted social structures such as discrimination based on work and descent\, and its adverse impacts on human rights. Speakers will discuss ways in which this can be addressed through the UN Guiding Principles and a smart mix of measures. This includes States taking steps to protect these communities from human rights violations by businesses and ensuring access to decent work; human rights due diligence and transparency in reporting of operations and supply chains by businesses; and a role for civil society to hold States and businesses to account.  \nModerator: Beena Pallical (Asia Dalit Rights Foundation) \nSpeakers:  \n\nProf. Surya Deva\, Special Rapporteur Right to Development\nDr. Nimalka Fernando (President\, International Movement Against All Form of Discrimination and Racism (IMADR)\nSalil Tripathi (Institute for Human Rights and Business) \nSimona Torotcoi (GFoD\, Europe)\n\nWednesday 27 November 2024\, | Time: 1.15 pm – 2.30 pm (CST) \nVenue: Salle du CAV \nRue de Varembé 1    \nZoom Link: https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIldeuqqz8jH9wd6Qh4Tgu2yAZn-_nA_BTe URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/realising-a-smart-mix-of-measures-for-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-in-the-context-of-business-activities/ LOCATION:Hybrid: Offline-Salle du CAV Online-Zoom\, Salle du CAV\, Geneva\, Switzerland ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/BHR-2024-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20241021T080000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20241022T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20241014T130328Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241015T070103Z UID:8983-1729497600-1729616400@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Addressing Work and Descent-Based Discrimination Against Women: A prerequisite to accelerate the implementation of the Beijing Declaration DESCRIPTION:Reviewing 30 Years of Beijing Commitments to Accelerate Gender Equality in the ECE Region \nBackground and Rationale \nDiscrimination Based on Work and Descent (DWD) affects more than 270 million people worldwide\, with about 15 million Roma and other diaspora communities in Europe\, such as Dalits and Haratins. CDWD are regarded as the most vulnerable groups in terms of social\, economic\, and political development. They experience intersectional discrimination and oppression because of overlapping social constructs of ability\, age\, work\, caste\, class\, ethnicity\, social status\, and gender. Women belonging to the DWD communities in Europe\, such as the CDWD diaspora and the Roma are left behind in advancing the gender equality agenda. State Parties and other stakeholders have taken some measures to address the issue. Despite this\, CDWD women still face discrimination through social exclusion\, poor access to education\, public services and infrastructure. This results in CDWD women not only left out of the gender equality agenda but also in being able to advance their status. \nTo accelerate the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in the UNECE region\, it is essential that policy initiatives prioritise women for whom developmental gains have been inaccessible. This event aims to spotlight the issue of diversity and inclusion of the rights of CDWD women\, including the discrimination and poverty faced by them themselves and their lack of access to decent jobs\, focusing on Haratine women (Association des Haratine de Mauritanie en Europe)\, Roma women (ERGO Network)\, and Dalit women (GFoD\, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent) across the UNECE. This event ensures that their lived experiences\, particularly in terms of economic empowerment and discrimination\, are highlighted at the European and international level\, creating pathways for more inclusive and responsive global frameworks. \n\n\n\nSession objectives and expected outcomes\n\n\n\nSome of the expected outcomes include the development of a toolkit and set of guidelines for UN Women regional and country offices to incorporate the needs of CDWD women in their work\, the proposal for a Special Rapporteur on work and descent-based discrimination\, and enhanced collaboration among international organizations and stakeholders to implement strategies that promote equality and non-discrimination. \nPossible Outcomes \n\nAcceleration of efforts to include CDWD women in the global gender equality agenda. The event will highlight the gaps in current policies and advocate for more inclusive approaches that prioritize the women from CDWD.\n\n\nCreation of a specialized toolkit and guidelines for UN Women regional and country offices. These resources will be designed to integrate the specific needs and challenges of women from CDWD into their policies and programs. \n\n\nIntroduction of a formal proposal to appoint a Special Rapporteur on work and descent-based discrimination. \n\n\nStrengthened partnerships and collaboration among international organizations\, governments\, and civil society stakeholders.\n\n\nGreater awareness and visibility of the unique challenges faced by CDWD women\, particularly Haratine\, Roma\, and Dalit women\, in the UNECE region. \n\n\nFormulation of concrete policy recommendations for national governments\, regional and international organizations\, and other stakeholders.\n\n\n\n\nOrganizers\n\n\n\nLead organizers: Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent \nContributors: ERGO Network\, Ministry of Social Affairs and Health of Finland\, Ministry of Social Policy\, Demography and Youth of North Macedonia\, \nFocal points: Torotcoi Simona\, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent \nEmail: simona@globalforumcdwd.org \n\n\n\nAgenda and Structure (Speakers TBC)\n\n\n\nWelcome and Introductions (5 minutes) Gabriela Hrabanova\, ERGO Network \nKeynote Remarks – Importance of addressing systemic discrimination through governmental policies (20 minutes) \n–       Ministry of Social Policy\, Demography and Youth\, North Macedonia \n–        Ministry of Social Affairs and Health\, Finland \nCDWD Women Experiences on the Ground (25 minutes) \n–        Sonia Haidara/Noura Sidatti\, Association des Haratine de Mauritanie en Europe \n–        Alba Hernandez\, Feminist Collective of Romani Gender Experts \n–        Swati Kamble\, India and Me \nOpen Q&A \nPanel Discussion: Addressing Discrimination and Economic Empowerment (25 minutes) \n–        Fikrija Tair-Selmani\, Rights Expert GFoD – Moderator \n–   Manuela Ott\, Dalit Solidarity in Germany – Dalit women’s struggles in South Asia and UNECE context \n–   Chidi King\, ILO – Role of decent work policies in empowering marginalized women \n–       Juliana Santos Wahlgren\, European Anti-Poverty Network – EAPN – Roma women’s barriers to employment and economic inclusion \n–    Claude Cahn\, OHCHR – Human rights protections for CDWD women: global frameworks \nDiscussion (10 minutes) Attendees engage with panelists \nSummary of key takeaways and next steps for continued advocacy and collaboration (5 minutes) \n\n\n\nList of Panelists\n\n\n\nPlease list the names and organizations of the panelists participating in the side event. The moderator should also be included in the list. \nThe key innovative element of this event is that it provides a platform\, a space for women discriminated against on work and descent that they have been so far deprived of. Bringing their voices in the UN Women and UNECE space not only allows for their unique challenges to be acknowledged\, but also actively involves them in shaping policies that affect their lives. The event introduces groundbreaking case studies on Roma and Haratine\, and Dalit diaspora women’s access to employment\, emphasizing real-world successes and challenges. This event ensures that their lived experiences\, particularly in terms of economic empowerment and discrimination\, are highlighted at the European and international level\, creating pathways for more inclusive and responsive global frameworks. Government representatives from Finland\, North Macedonia\, among others\, and representatives from the ILO\, EAPN\, OHCHR\, and ENAR will also emphasise the importance of addressing multiple layers of discrimination for effective policy formulation and societal change but also share practices and innovative steps on eradicating poverty\, promoting economic empowerment and reducing discrimination. \nList of names and organizations: \n\n       Gabriela Hrabanova\, ERGO Network (Moderator)\n       Mabera Kamberi\, Ministry of Social Policy\, Demography and Youth\, North Macedonia\n       Janette Grönfors\, Ministry of Social Affairs and Health\, Finland\n       Fikrija Tair-Selmani\, Rights Expert GFoD\n       Manuela Ott\, Dalit Solidarity in Germany\n       Chidi King\, ILO\n       Juliana Santos Wahlgren\, European Anti-Poverty Network – EAPN\n       Claude Cahn\, OHCHR\n       Sonia Haidara\, Association des Haratine de Mauritanie en Europe\n       Alba Hernandez\, Feminist Collective of Romani Gender Experts\n       Swati Kamble\, India \n      Simona Torotcoi\, Romania\n\n\n\n\nSign-up / Registration Link\n\n\n\n  \nhttps://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtdOCspjorEtfQZ0gzlAx2bv6aReNVh8lL#/registration \n  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/addressing-work-and-descent-based-discrimination-against-women-a-prerequisite-to-accelerate-the-implementation-of-the-beijing-declaration/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Final-OCT-21.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20240716T160000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20240716T173000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240711T115954Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240711T181854Z UID:8659-1721145600-1721151000@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Casting light on SGD 16 & 17\, anticipating the potential of "Pact for the Future" for LGBTQI+ individuals and Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) to realize our full potential DESCRIPTION:2024 High-Level Political Forum  \nLGBTI Stakeholder Group and the Stakeholder Group of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent. \nThe LGBTI Stakeholder Group and the Stakeholder Group of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (SG-CDWD)\,   invite you to a joint side event on the margins of the annual High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF).  \nAround the globe\, LGBTI populations are still criminalized and experience stigma\, discrimination\, violence\, and other human rights violations due to their sexual orientation\, gender identity\, gender expression\, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Further\, LGBTI populations face higher barriers than their counterparts in accessing development opportunities\, funding\, needs and services\, which are reinforced by punitive policies. LGBTI persons who face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination due to their gender\, age\, race\, ethnicity\, ability\, class\, caste\, socioeconomic status\, work\, origin\, migration status\, and other factors that drive exclusion\, are even more marginalized and face even greater barriers in accessing development opportunities.  \n \nEvent Overview  \nThis side event will focus on the protection and liberation of LGBTQI people and Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent. We will explore strategies\, avenues for joint actions\, and work to improve the current text and annexes of the Pact for the Future\, bridging the gaps between the SDGs\, Agenda 2030 and our aspirations.  \nObjectives:  \n\n To explore how LGBTQI+ people and Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent can contribute to building peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development\, as well as strengthening the means of implementation for the SDGs (SDG 16 and 17) \n To highlight the legal and systemic discrimination\, that marginalized communities often face due to multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination. \n To articulate our ambitions for the Pact of the Future\, ensuring it goes beyond protection and ending discrimination\, and employs visionary ambitious language focusing on liberation and equity. \n\nThemes for the discussion \n\nInclusive strong institutions \n\nStrong institutions must be inclusive\, representing the diversity of the population and ensuring that minority voices are heard in governance and policy-making. Peace and justice are intrinsically linked to the protection of human rights\, allowing minorities to live free from persecution and discrimination.  \nPartnerships with member states\, UN Agencies and UN Experts must continue to enhance the capacity of organizations empowering LGBTI and CDWD individuals to advocate and enjoy their rights. International cooperation and solidarity\, leveraging global partnerships to promote equality and justice is key to achieving the Agenda 2030 and fighting towards ambitious language in a Pact of the Future. \n2. Manifestations of discrimination                      \n  a. Assimilation pressures  \nBoth the LGBTQ community and CDWD are pressured to assimilate into “mainstream society” by conforming to expected identities and roles\, for example by speaking the correct language\, complying with the expected identity\, and performing tasks expected of us dutifully. \nb. Marginalization  \nCDWD often live on the margins\, physically separated from the rest of society\, with the expectation of serfdom related to the most menial tasks often related to death\, excrement\, rubbish\, iron work and other forms of labor.  \nSimilarly\, LGBTI+ people often have limited access to education\, and cannot easily enter the labor market\, thus lacking a real head start on life. LGBTI+ people\, especially non-cisgender people\, are often criminalized and live under severe legal circumstances that prevent them from pursuing economic agency. Even when “homosexuality” is not explicitly criminalized\, many penal codes around the world criminalize “cross-dressing” which limits non-cisgender people’s access to social protection and economic opportunities. LGBTI+ people continue to struggle to meet basic necessities\, lose jobs\, and end up homeless. \nc. Invisibility  \n“Invisibility”\, in the context of LGBTI people\, refers to the societal tendency to overlook or ignore the existence and experiences of individuals who identify as lesbian\, gay\, bisexual\, transgender\, or intersex. This invisibility can manifest in various ways\, such as lack of representation in media\, limited legal protections\, discrimination\, and social stigma. It can also refer to the internal struggles that LGBTI individuals may face in terms of hiding or suppressing their identities due to fear of rejection or discrimination.  \nSimilarly\, invisibility is a characteristic assigned and expected from CDWD and LGBTI people – if they do not comply\, they are “put in their place” using methods only limited by the imagination of our oppressor’s cruelty. For LGBTI people\, this can mean denying their gender identity\, sexual identity and/or sex characteristics. For CDWD\, it means performing the most menial tasks of a society\, including manual scavenging human and animal waste or performing slave labour.  \nConclusion  \nBy highlighting the experiences of LGBTI+ people as well as those of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD)\, this event aims to promote inclusive policies and inspire collective action. Ultimately\, this conversation is one step towards an inclusive and sustainable future. URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/casting-light-on-sgd-16-17-anticipating-the-potential-of-pact-for-the-future-for-lgbtqi-individuals-and-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-cdwd-to-realize-our-full-potential/ LOCATION:Hybrid: Offline-United Nation Conference Room F Online: Zoom\, United Nation Head Quaters\, New York\, NY\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/5800745455628435621_121.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20240713T103000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20240713T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240711T114520Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240711T114741Z UID:8650-1720866600-1720890000@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:UN Declaration: A CDWD Symposium DESCRIPTION:Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD)\, including but not limited to Dalit\, Roma\, Quilombola\, and Haratine communities\, face systemic discrimination and marginalization across the world. CDWD are the people directly affected by Discrimination based on Work and Descent (DWD). They continue to face extreme forms of isolation and discrimination\, which acts as an obstacle to their attainment of civil\, political\, economic\, cultural and social rights. While efforts have been made to address the challenges faced by individual communities\, there remains a need to approach this issue from a global CDWD perspective. \nIt is in this context that the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD)\, in partnership with Ambedkar International Mission\, Bahujan Scholars\, The Inclusivity Project (TIP) and other networks is organizing a symposium in Rutgers University\, NJ on July 13\, 2024. \nThe discussion involving academics\, activists\, and diaspora community members seeks to amplify the voices of CDWD and advance their rights and dignity through advocacy\, research\, and community engagement. It further focuses on CDWD globally\, shifting the focus from individual communities to a broader perspective. This discussion also sheds light on the diaspora community members and explores effective strategies for advancing social justice and the inclusion of CDWD in the global platform.T \nThe event will be held in person mode. For registration\, please click here URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/un-declaration-a-cdwd-symposium/ LOCATION:PRCC Hall 233\, Rutgers University\, Nevark\, New Jersey\, NJ\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Rutgers-Symposium-2024-8.5-x-12-in-8.5-x-14-in-1-932x1536-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240709T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240709T143000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240618T105624Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T092239Z UID:7780-1720530000-1720535400@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Good Practices and Challenges in the 2030 Agenda - Showcasing ongoing inclusive strategies of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent DESCRIPTION:For registration : https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0tdO-srzIsEtUCr_6DcIxAGIm2Tj2kCt3J \nThe Permanent Mission of Nepal to the UN in New York together with the Permanent\nMission of North Macedonia\, Permanent Mission of Canada (TBC) and the\nPermanent Missions of Austria\, Brazil\, Sri Lanka\, Ivory Coast\, Gambia (TBC) and UN\nWomen (Racial Justice) are delighted to co-organize a HLPF 2024 side event alongside the\nGlobal Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD) and The\nInclusivity Project uniting organizations working for recognition and rights of Communities\nDiscriminated on Work and Descent including the African Network on Discrimination based\non Work and Descent and Contemporary Forms of Slavery (ANDS)\, The Africa GFoD\, The\nAsia Dalit Rights Forum (ADRF)\, the European Roma Grassroots Organisations Network\n(ERGO Network) and the National Coordination of Rural Black Quilombola Communities\n(CONAQ – Coordenação Nacional de Articulação das Comunidades Negras Rurais\nQuilombolas) \nThe session will highlight the importance of addressing discrimination based on work and\ndescent as a critical step towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.\nThrough an exchange of ideas on inclusive and equitable approaches\, strengthening\npartnerships and collaborative practice\, the side event is an opportunity for all stakeholders to\nrenew their commitment to the principle of ‘Leaving no one behind’ and reinforce the 2030\nAgenda for 270 million people across the world who are discriminated on work and\ndescent.         \nContext: Growing recognition and acceptance has resulted in the recognition of the Stakeholder Group of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (SG-CDWD) anchored in GA\nresolution 67/290 as part of Major Groups and Other Stakeholders in 2020. Since then\, the\nSG-CDWD has ensured the representation and participation of voices of some of the most\nsidelined communities in the national and regional SDG implementation strategies.\nMember States and UN Agencies have been receptive to responding to the demands and\ninitiating systematic documentation efforts and recognition and inclusion efforts into the\nsystematic design of policies to mechanisms for the marginalized.\nDespite significant progress\, discrimination remains a major barrier to achieving the\nSustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development\nemphasizes the importance of leaving no one behind and recognizes the need for inclusive\ndevelopment. Marginalized groups—such as women\, minorities\, persons with disabilities\,\nand Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD). These intersecting  discriminations perpetuate cycles of exclusion and hinder their full participation in economic\,\nsocial\, and political life. \nWho are Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD? \nCommunities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD) are known by many\nnames depending on where they live and the languages they speak. Together they\nrepresent 270 million individuals\, which would constitute the 6th largest country on earth.\nDalits and Burakumin in Asia\, the “slave caste” in The Gambia and Mauritania called\njongoo/komo and Haratin\, the Quilombola in Brazil and Roma in Europe and beyond are just\nsome examples of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD). These\ncommunities share the common experience of living in socially segregated societies that\ndiscriminate against them based on the perceived low social status often tied to labels such as\n“unclean” or “polluted” often tied to traditional professions. \nIn 2024 many Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) offer a unique opportunity to showcase\nachievements in countries with significant CDWD populations. However\, work and\ncollaboration with CDWD is an ongoing process and need not be reduced to the VNR process\nthis event also wishes to showcase. Some examples of recent successes paired with ambitions and new policy initiatives this side event will highlight include: \n1. The Inclusion in the Census in several countries and overcoming the invisibility of\ncounting everyone in government censuses\, states have taken a critical step toward\nrecognizing the existence and needs of all communities\, including marginalized and\ndescent-based groups. This inclusion ensures policy-making and resource allocation\nwith CDWD in mind. \n2. Budgets and Allocation of Quotas notable advancements in budget allocations and the\nimplementation of quotas to support CDWD and other groups in areas such as\neducation\, political representation\, healthcare\, and housing. \n3. Recognition and Regional Human Rights Mechanisms has also been bolstered by the\nefforts of regional human rights mechanisms and civil society organizations\,\nparticularly in Africa. Organizations like the African Commission on Human and\nPeoples’ Rights and civil society movements across regions have united to form\ncoalitions that push for greater recognition and protection of these groups rights. \n4. The Platform Provided by the SDGs emphasize inclusivity and aim to leave\nno one behind\, giving descent-based communities a critical opportunity to be seen and\nheard on the global stage despite not being acknowledged specifically and the lack of\ntargets the Agenda 2030 has allowed for wide civil society participation and\ncontributed to the successes of the CDWD movement. \nBuilding on the growing recognition and systematic creation of efforts to include the\nmost marginalized this side event wishes to build on and highlight some\nachievements and best practices states and UN agencies have championed. Member\nstates and renowned leaders of the CDWD will address this side event. \nIt is hybrid event\, taking place on zoom and UN\, Conference Room F\, New York \n(Indicated time is the NY time EDT) URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/good-practices-and-challenges-in-the-2030-agenda-showcasing-ongoing-inclusive-strategies-of-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent/ LOCATION:Hybrid: Offline-United Nation Conference Room F Online: Zoom\, United Nation Head Quaters\, New York\, NY\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/📆-9th-July-2024-🕑-1300-1430-ET-📍CR-F-UN-HQ-9.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240611T120000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240611T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240522T093634Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T123928Z UID:7243-1718107200-1718107200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Carving out a Norm at the UN on the Rights of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent DESCRIPTION:GFoD and partners are pleased to invite you to a roundtable discussion on the international\nmovement of communities discriminated on work and descent (CDWD). This important\nalliance of groups from Africa\, Europe\, Latin America and South Asia\, is forging new\npathways for justice at the international level to ensure the voices of CDWD are recognised\nand heard. The roundtable will give an opportunity for a ‘long view’ of social mobilisation\npertaining to work and descent-based discrimination that spans several decades of global action.\nThe roundtable will begin with a presentation by Dr Corinne Lennox\, Senior Lecturer in\nHuman Rights\, Institute of Commonwealth Studies\, School of Advanced Study\, University of\nLondon\, who will speak to the findings in her book\, Transnational Social Mobilisation and\nMinorities Rights: Identity\, Advocacy and Norms (Routledge 2020). The book uses the\nconcept of ‘norm entrepreneurship’ to comparatively examine the extraordinary efforts by \nDalits\, people of African descent\, Roma and Indigenous peoples to work across borders and\nat the international level to seek protection of their rights. The book draws from interviews \nwith leading activists\, participant observation and the author’s own previous work with\nactivists from her roles in NGOs\, to provide a detailed account of the strategies that have\nmade these groups highly successful in bringing international attention to their calls for\njustice.\nIn this lecture\, Dr Lennox will specifically trace the evolution of the global mobilisation of\nDalits and their alliances with other communities discriminated on the basis of work and\ndescent. The lecture will discuss the early days of their actions at the UN level\, the important\nimpact of the 2001 World Conference against Racism\, their effective use of framing and \npolitical opportunities\, and the construction of strong forms of international cooperation to\nsecure significant recognition at the international level.\nThis successful example of ‘norm entrepreneurship’ will be the backdrop for further\ndiscussion on the next wave of transnational social mobilisation by communities\ndiscriminated on work and descent (CDWD). Since 2019\, CDWD have forged exciting new \nalliances across communities and continents to develop new norms that can address the\nunique set of human rights violations they experience in common.\nLeading voices from the CDWD movement will share their reflections on key strategies that \nhave bolstered their mobilisation at the international level. The panel will also discuss the\nfuture aims and challenges for the CDWD movement as they seek to solidify their\nrecognition and support on the international and regional levels. \nTime: Jun 11\, 2024 12:00 PM Universal Time UTC \nZoom Link: https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/j/87172689955 URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/carving-out-a-norm-at-the-un-on-the-rights-of-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Roundtable_11.06-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240417T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240417T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240402T185225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240403T091836Z UID:5358-1713362400-1713373200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Webinar on VNR:Integrating the perspective of communities discriminated on work and descent in the voluntary national reviews DESCRIPTION:For the last few years\, the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Decent as part of the UN Major Groups and Other Stakeholders\, has been engaging in the National Voluntary Reviews (VNRs)\, presenting the viewpoint of our communities across the world (i.e.\, Roma\, Haratins\, Buraku\, Dalits\, Quilombola\, etc.). This year we would like to support those civil society representatives and other stakeholders interested in getting involved into their national VNRs\, by providing you the in-house knowledge and resources (i.e.\, training) on how to best engage in such advocacy activities from the perspective of communities discriminated on work and descent! \nMore about the VNRs \nAs part of its follow-up and review mechanisms\, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development encourages member States to conduct regular and inclusive reviews of progress at the national and sub-national levels. The Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) aim to facilitate the sharing of experiences\, including successes\, challenges and lessons learned\, with a view to accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. \nFollowing states have expressed interest to carry out voluntary national reviews (VNRs) of their implementation of the 2030 Agenda at the 2024 HLPF: Argentina\, Armenia\, Austria\, Azerbaijan\, Belize\, Brazil\, Chad\, Colombia\, Congo (Republic of the)\, Costa Rica\, Ecuador\, Egypt\, Equatorial Guinea\, Eritrea\, Estonia\, Georgia\, Guinea\, Guinea Bissau\, Honduras\, Iran (Islamic Republic of)\, Kenya\, Lao People’s Democratic Republic\, Libya\, Mauritania\, Mauritius\, Mexico\, Micronesia (Federated States of)\, Namibia\, Nepal\, Oman\, Palau\, Peru\, Samoa\, Sierra Leone\, Solomon Islands\, South Africa\, South Sudan\, Spain\, Syrian Arab Republic\, Uganda\, Vanuatu\, Yemen\, Zimbabwe. \nMGoS responses during the VNR  \nThe Major Groups and Other Stakeholders provide the space for stakeholder engagement around the High Level Political Forum (HLPF). Stakeholders can also engage by: providing inputs to and reviewing drafts of VNRs of their respective countries; representing their constituents as part of government delegations; and participating in the presentation of the VNR to the HLPF. The MGoS launched a call for expression of interest from stakeholders from VNR countries in the preparation of statements for the upcoming HLPF. \nThe webinar Integrating the perspective of communities discriminated on work and descent in the voluntary national reviews \nAcross the globe\, communities discriminated on work and descent (CDWD) have been left from national sustainable development strategies and action plans. Ensuring “No one is left behind” in the developmental planning and implementation of the SDGs is one of the key priorities of the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Decent. In this webinar we will touch upon the following: \n\nHow can we integrate a CDWD perspective in the VNR process and statement?\nHow can we prepare for the VNR/HLPF? \n\nApproaching the government under review and engage in formal consultations\nEncourage governments to include independent contributions in its VNR report and find ways to review the draft VNR report\nNational advocacy campaigns\nIn person meetings with VNR countries \nFactsheets \nThematic reports and shadow reports \n\n\nWhat after the VNR? Follow-up and continuous engagement \n\nMeet with other non-governmental stakeholders to reflect on the VNR process and discuss next steps to influence implementation and follow-up and review\nUrge governments to address the main findings of the VNR and to follow through on any commitments it made during the VNR process\n\n\n\nThe webinar will take place online. \n Please register here :https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAsc-qgrzgiG9L-Rk14VMyiyErIjtfG6WTv  \nInterpretation will be in  French\, Spanish and Portuguese will be provided. \nRead more about the 2024 VNRs here: MGoS\, DESA Flag Opportunities for Stakeholder Participation in 2024 HLPF | News | SDG Knowledge Hub | IISD  URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/webinar-on-vnrintegrating-the-perspective-of-communities-discriminated-on-work-and-descent-in-the-voluntary-national-reviews/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240320T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240320T163000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240229T071803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240319T055931Z UID:5247-1710945000-1710952200@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Building Bridges Among Women Discriminated Against on Work and Descent DESCRIPTION:We are living in times of great turmoil\, with protracted conflict\, the climate crisis and growing inequalities present in the world today. Amidst this growing crisis\, state and non-state actors have a very critical role to play in upholding the human rights of communities and individuals and ensuring respect of global standards. In this context\, continuing violence and human rights violations perpetrated against Communities Discriminated based on Work and Descent (CDWD) are of great concern. These communities number over 270 million individuals and suffer some of the harshest forms of marginalisation\, discrimination and social exclusion in the world. CDWD are known by various names\, such as Dalits and Burakumin in Asia\, the Bellah community in Mali\, the Haratin slave caste in Mauritania\, the Quilombola in Brazil and Roma in Europe and beyond. These communities share the common experience of living in socially segregated societies that discriminate against them based on the kinds of occupations that they practise and their family ancestry. Confronted with oppressive beliefs that label them as “unclean” or “polluted”\, CDWD are relegated to the margins of society. \nKey Objectives: \n\nSpotlight the discrimination and poverty faced by CDWD women.\nExplore the intersectionality of gender\, caste\, ethnicity\, race and socio-economic factors that contribute to the challenges faced by these communities.\nEmphasise the importance of addressing multiple layers of discrimination for effective policy-making and social change.\nFacilitate open discussions between women representatives of CDWD communities\, policymakers\, academics\, and activists.\nHighlight the achievements and resilience of women from these communities who have overcome adversity.\nDevelop recommendations and policy suggestions for governments and international organizations to address discrimination and poverty faced by these women.\nEncourage the integration of intersectional perspectives in existing policies and the creation of new initiatives tailored to the specific needs of these communities.\n\n  \nEvent format and outcomes: The event will include keynote addresses\, will utilise personal narratives\, documentaries\, and expert panels to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues. It will be accessible both in-person and virtually to ensure widespread participation. \nAim:This event  aims to contribute to the global conversation on gender equality by specifically addressing the discrimination and poverty faced by Roma\, Dalit\, Quilambola\, Buraku\, Haratine and other CDWD women. The event seeks to drive actionable initiatives\, promote inclusivity\, and empower these communities to build a more equitable future. It also aims to establish a platform for sharing best practices and fostering collaborations that can lead to tangible improvements in the lives of these women\, and\, potentially the establishment of an informal CDWD feminist network. \n\n\n\nOrganisers: \n\nThe Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD)\nThe Inclusivity Project (TIP)\nEuropean Roma Grassroots Organisations Network (ERGO)\nCoordenação Nacional de Articulação das Comunidades Negras Rurais Quilombolas (CONAQ)\nAsia Dalit Rights Forum\nAfrica Network on CDWD\n\nSpeakers include:\n– Simona Torotcoi\, European Roma Grassroots Organizations Network\n– Patricia Da Costa\, The National Coordination for the Articulation of Black Rural Quilombola Communities in Brazil (CONAQ)\n– Queen Bisseng\, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent\n– Sonu Das\, Bangladesh Dalit and Excluded Rights Movement \n– Moderator: Beena Pallical\, Asia Dalit Rights Forum(ADRF) \n\n\nInterpretation : Spanish \, Portuguese and French\n\nParallel Event During the NGO CSW68 FORUM \nRegistration link : http://tinyurl.com/gfod20march \nTime: 02:30PM to 04:30PM  ET URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/building-bridges-among-women-discriminated-against-on-work-and-descent/ LOCATION:United Nations Church Center\, New York ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CSW-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240315T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240315T123000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240213T101500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240315T075035Z UID:5134-1710502200-1710505800@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Commission on the Status of Women NGO Side Virtual Event : Feminization of poverty- How does poverty affect the lives of women discriminated against on work and descent? DESCRIPTION:Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD)\, along with partner entities:  European Roma Grassroots Organisations Network (ERGO)\,  Feminist Collective of Romani Gender Experts\, and Romalitico – Institute for Research and Policy Analysis organise a side event focusing on addressing the intersectionality of discrimination\, marginalization and poverty faced by women from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD). \nWomen part of CDWD are regarded as one the most vulnerable groups in terms of social\, economic\, and political development. They experience intersectional discrimination and oppression because of overlapping social constructs of ability\, age\, work\, caste\, class\, and gender. The main challenge of CDWD women initially is seen in the lack of available disaggregated data and a focus on their specific needs in policy documents. Making progress towards greater inclusion of CDWD women and girls is not only a human rights imperative\, but  the recognition of their existence and addressing our challenges is one of the best ways to move forward in ensuring that CDWD are able to access education\, health services\, social benefits and employment opportunities.  \nBoth poverty and gender inequality represent distinct forms of social injustice\, posing significant threats to human rights\, individual well-being\, and the realization of one’s full potential in life\, as emphasized in the human development approach. Despite ongoing efforts to advance gender equality\, women continue to occupy an underprivileged position in our societies\, consequently facing an increased susceptibility to poverty. Women grappling with poverty encounter a dual risk and injustice\, both based on their gender and economic status. Poverty and gender are intertwined\, and in the past decade\, there has been a growing use of the term ‘feminization of poverty’ to describe the increasing proportion of women among those living in poverty\, especially women discrimination on work and descent (such as Dalit\, Roma\, Quilombola\, Burakumin). Some of the factors contributing to the feminization of poverty include intersectional discrimination\, distribution of resources within households influenced by patriarchal values\, lower rate of education and employment caused by systemic discrimination\, unequal access to property\, inadequate childcare\, segregation in education\, lack of access to digitalization etc. \nDuring this event\, together with representatives of communities discriminated against on work and descent we aim to explore the nuances of how different groups of women experience poverty. Moreover\, the event will also provide us with the platform to present good practices which have successfully helped women and girls in poverty. \nDuring the event\, we will also launch a regional report on the situation of Roma women in Europe! \nKeynote speech \n\nPenda Mbow\, Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar\n\nModerator:  \n\nMarija Sulejmanova\, Romalitico – Institute for Research and Policy Analysis\n\nSpeakers:  \n\nClaudia González\, Feminist Collective of Romani Gender Expert\nQueen Bisseng\, Central Africa Human Rights Defenders Network and GFoD\nVercilene\,  Coordenação Nacional de Articulação das Comunidades Negras Rurais Quilombolas\nLogeswary Ponniah\, Women Solidarity Front\, Kandy\nIsabela Mihalache\, Senior Advocacy Officer at ERGO Network\n\nTo know more about Speakers\, please click here \nTo know more about Speakers\, please visit : http://tinyurl.com/cswgfod15march \nTime: March 15\, 2024 11:30 – 12:30 ET/ 16:30 CET \nZoom Link : https://theinclusivityproject-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIkdeiqrD8qEtF-TXR89mI3IeLs-EfZCfT- URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/commission-on-the-status-of-women-ngo-side-virtual-event-feminization-of-poverty-how-does-poverty-affect-the-lives-of-women-discriminated-against-on-work-and-decent/ LOCATION:Online: Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/UPDATED-FLYER.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240313T131500 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240313T153000 DTSTAMP:20260404T000022 CREATED:20240212T123713Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240311T104719Z UID:5129-1710335700-1710343800@globalforumcdwd.org SUMMARY:Addressing the root causes of poverty among women and girls from descent communities and the impact of UN Programming and NGOs to eradicate stigma DESCRIPTION:Official side event during the CSW68 Forum 11 – 22 March 2024 \n     Registration link : https://eu.jotform.com/form/240416061960046 \nIn the context of the sixty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women\, the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the UN in New York alongside UN Woman\, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)\, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Forum of Communities discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD) will hold a side event focusing on descent-based communities and the unique discriminatory practices they are experiencing based on the idea of “purity and pollution” often tied to ancestral or present occupations. \nThe event will address the intersectionality of discrimination\, marginalization and poverty\, and highlight experiences and program interventions which foster liberation and the eradication of the myth of untouchability and social exclusion.  \nFor more details\, please refer to the Concept note. \nList and details of Speaker \nDate: 13th March 2024 \nTime: 1:15 PM EST \nRegistration link : https://eu.jotform.com/form/240416061960046 URL:https://globalforumcdwd.org/event/end-poverty-women-of-descent-communities/ LOCATION:New York ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://globalforumcdwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/photo_2024-03-09_17-49-57.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR