Secretary-General Stresses Importance of Women’s Leadership across United Nations, Calling on More Male Officials to Join International Gender Champions

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message for the launch event for International Gender Champions, in Vienna today:

Congratulations on launching this important initiative.

I joined the Gender Champions when I was United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.  And I proudly renewed my commitment when I became Secretary-General.  Let me stress that this initiative is only as good as our word.  The challenge is to keep the promise we make.

That is why I am doing everything possible as Secretary-General to achieve true equality.  For justice and effectiveness.  The United Nations has to model the values we espouse.  That is why I place such high importance on women’s leadership across the United Nations system.

I commend the senior leaders who are signing on as Gender Champions.  I call on other male officials to be part of this initiative.  When we keep our promise to achieve equality, we will have a more promising future for all.

Thank you.