“There will never be true sovereignty in Lebanon if the women are not self-determined. Reconstruction and nation building is impossible, if they are marginalised or excluded from decision-making and leadership,” said first lady of the Republic of Lebanon, Nehmat Aoun, during her speech at the high-level meeting convened by the President of the General Assembly to mark the thirtieth anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Adopted in 1995 by 189 governments at the Fourth World Conference on Women, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, is the most comprehensive and transformative global agenda for the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
Speaking exclusively to Vogue Arabia, Aoun described the importance of being part of this global momentous occasion. “Our participation at the United Nations General Assembly is not merely a diplomatic engagement; it is a moment to reaffirm Lebanon’s place as a credible partner and as an active contributor in decision making and positive change,” she says. “This platform is an opportunity to share the priorities I hold as First Lady: advancing quality education, ensuring youth inclusion, and strengthening the role of women in the peace and security agenda. It is also a chance to rebuild vital partnerships with international organisations, so that Lebanon’s voice is heard and its commitments are clear,” Aoun adds.
President of the National Commission for Lebanese Women, Aoun is an advocate for women’s rights and committed to empower Lebanese women. She previously led a delegation to New York in March 2025 for the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.