The final day of From Global Convention to a City for CEDAW in Cardiff brought energy, collaboration, and a clear sense of purpose as we moved from discussion to action.
Building on an inspiring first day, today focused on how CEDAW can be meaningfully implemented at a local level—ensuring that the rights of women and girls are not only protected in principle, but experienced in everyday life.
Turning Dialogue into Action
Through a series of engaging breakout workshops, participants explored key themes including:
- Access to justice
- Ending violence against women and girls
- Women’s health and wellbeing
- Economic empowerment
- Representation and leadership
These sessions brought together policymakers, academics, frontline organisations and advocates, creating space for honest discussion, shared learning, and practical solutions.
A Collective Commitment
A standout moment of the day was the collective commitment to advancing CEDAW principles across Cardiff and beyond. The sense of shared responsibility—across sectors and communities—was both powerful and hopeful.
As Europe’s first City for CEDAW, Cardiff continues to lead the way, demonstrating how global frameworks can drive real, measurable change at a local level.
Looking Ahead
This event marks not an end, but a beginning.
The conversations, partnerships and ideas sparked over these two days will continue to grow—shaping policy, influencing practice, and strengthening the movement for gender equality across Wales.
At the Wales Assembly of Women, we are proud to have supported and contributed to this important event, and we remain committed to ensuring that the principles of CEDAW translate into lasting impact.
With thanks to Cardiff Council, Cardiff University, Welsh Government, and all partners, speakers and participants who made this event such a success.
A powerful and emotional highlight of the final day was the collective signing of the CEDAW pledge.
In a truly uplifting moment, delegates, partners and leaders came together to formally commit to advancing women’s rights through the principles of CEDAW — not just in policy, but in practice.
This was more than a symbolic gesture. It marked a shared determination to:
- Embed gender equality into local decision-making
- Strengthen accountability and transparency
- Ensure that women and girls’ rights are realised in everyday life across Cardiff and beyond
The atmosphere in the room was one of unity, purpose and optimism — a genuine sense that something important had shifted from conversation to commitment.
As Cardiff continues its journey as Europe’s first City for CEDAW, this pledge represents a collective promise to turn global standards into local change.
