DPM Lukšić takes part in UN General Assembly high level thematic debate on gender equality

New York, the USA (7 March 2015) -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Igor Lukšić took part in the UN General Assembly high level thematic debate on “Achieving Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women for a Transformative Post -2015 Development Agenda” held at United Nations’ Headquarters in New York.

Minister Lukšić pointed out a clear fact that women make up half the world's population and that they make a key contribution in the fields of development around the world.

“Therefore, gender equality and empowerment of women and girls are irreplaceable elements of the development framework after 2015,” DPM Lukšić underlined. In that regard, he listed the activities undertaken by the Government of Montenegro in terms of improving position of women and achieving gender equality in line with the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

Montenegro’s Deputy Prime Minister Lukšić said that such achievements as a larger percentage of women in local-self governments and in the Parliament of Montenegro, as well as increased representation of women in the business sector, testify to clear political commitment and efforts towards achieving international standards and full equality between women and men.

"Societies where women live without fear of violence, have equal access to education, health care, and equal political and economic opportunities are healthier, more prosperous and more peaceful, which is the objective pursued by the Montenegro government," DPM Lukšić concluded.