As the World Economic Forum 2024 comes to a close, one of the key takeaways from this year’s annual meeting was the announcement of the launch of a “Global Good Alliance for Gender Equity and Equality” with the support and endorsement by the Forum and the government of India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Women-led Development” resonated strongly at the WEF 2024, with the global community expressing committed support. The WEF praised India’s inclusive and remarkable growth story under Prime Minister Modi’s visionary leadership, commending the government’s philosophy of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
The newly launched Alliance aims to bring together global best practices, foster knowledge sharing, and attract investments in key areas such as women’s health, education, and enterprise. The initiative builds on the commitments of the G20 Leaders’ Declaration and India’s dedication to women-led development.
Irani, speaking at the announcement, stated, “On a street where money walks and politics talks, we were able to bring together the best of industry, enterprise, and humanity in this grand Alliance.” She highlighted India’s achievements, including its spectacular inclusive growth story.
Industry leaders, including Mastercard, Uber, Tata, TVS, Bayer, Godrej, Serum Institute of India, IMD Lausanne, and over 10,000 partners, have already expressed their support for the Alliance. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is backing the initiative, with the CII Centre for Women Leadership serving as its anchor. The World Economic Forum is a ‘Network Partner,’ and Invest India is an ‘Institutional Partner.’
In line with India’s commitment to “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (One Earth, One Family, One Future) and the principles of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka Prayas,” the “Alliance for Global Good- Gender Equity and Equality” is poised to address gender-related issues on a global scale.
As part of the WEF 2024, the Union Minister led a unique initiative with the first-ever women leadership lounge (We Lead lounge) by CII and BMGF. This lounge facilitated discussions on “Women-led Development,” increasing women’s participation in the economy, bridging the digital gender gap, and women’s health.
Irani actively participated in eight sessions at the WEF, including discussions on ‘Restoring Faith in the Global Systems,’ ‘BRICS in Expansion,’ ‘Can India Seize its Moment,’ and ‘Country Strategy Dialogue on India.’ Her interventions highlighted the Government of India’s policies and initiatives, with a special emphasis on gender equality and women-led development.
On the sidelines of the WEF, the Union Minister held bilateral meetings with leaders from around the world, discussing common interests and potential collaborations.