Action Lab for Development at CSW70 marks an important moment in the organization’s international engagement. Action Lab for Development (ACTLAB) is pleased to share its participation in the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), which took place from 9–20 March 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Convened annually by UN Women, the Commission on the Status of Women is the principal global intergovernmental body dedicated to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. The event gathered governments, international organizations, civil society groups, and development practitioners to share knowledge, shape policies, and strengthen global cooperation.
Advancing Justice for Women and Girls
The priority theme of CSW70 focused on:
“Ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls, including by promoting inclusive and equitable legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices, and addressing structural barriers.”
This global conversation highlighted the importance of fair and inclusive legal systems that protect rights, remove structural inequalities, and ensure women and girls everywhere can access justice.
ACTLAB’s Commitment to Empowering Women
Our participation in CSW70 reflects our long-standing commitment to supporting women’s empowerment through education, entrepreneurship, and community initiatives.
Over the years, Action Lab for Development has implemented projects that actively support women’s economic participation, skill development, and community resilience. For example, the Women Empowerment ASA-2023 project provided training and mentorship to women and youth in Cameroon through workshops focused on entrepreneurship, agriculture, tailoring, commerce, citizen participation and digital skills, helping participants develop viable business ideas and pathways to self-employment.
ACTLAB has also supported community health and humanitarian initiatives, such as the distribution of food and essential hygiene materials to vulnerable populations—including women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities—in the Tubah area of Bamenda during the COVID-19 period. These actions addressed urgent needs while promoting community wellbeing and resilience.
In addition, we regularly organize skills workshops, mentorship programs, and entrepreneurship training that empower individuals—particularly women and youth—to build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen local economies, and continue to advance opportunities for women to develop leadership, economic independence, and meaningful participation in community development.
ACTLAB’s Engagement in Global Dialogue
Participation in CSW70 reflects Action Lab for Development’s commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on issues affecting communities worldwide.
During the session, we engaged in a range of activities including plenary discussions and thematic sessions, exchanges with international development partners, and dialogue with civil society organizations and stakeholders from the United Nations system. These engagements also provide valuable learning opportunities that help inform more inclusive policy perspectives and strengthen our approach to program development and advocacy.
Connecting Local Impact with Global Conversations
At Action Lab for Development, local action and global dialogue go hand in hand. Participation in international forums helps ensure that experiences from community initiatives inform broader conversations on development and social justice.
By engaging in CSW70, we aimed to strengthen our ability to exchange ideas with global partners, identify new collaboration opportunities, and bring global insights back to community programs and initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to expand our international engagement, platforms like CSW70 offer valuable opportunities to contribute to global solutions that promote equality, opportunity, and dignity for all.
Through collaboration, learning, and shared commitment, Action Lab for Development remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that empower communities and advance a future where every woman and girl can access justice, opportunity, and the tools needed to thrive.