Video Message from Prime Minister Kishida regarding the HeForShe Summit 2024

I would like to extend my congratulations on the 10th anniversary of the HeForShe initiative. It is a great pleasure for me to celebrate this milestone with our host of tonight’s event, Ms. Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, the champions in attendance, and all of you who support the Initiative.

As a HeForShe Champion, I have made four commitments: women’s economic independence, proactive dissemination of information on women's participation and advancement, further enhancement of the partnership with UN Women, and ending conflict-related sexual violence.

I have contributed to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls through a range of initiatives, from disclosing information on gender pay gaps in the country and reforming tax and social welfare systems to actively contributing to UN Women and other international organizations.

As we approach the 15th anniversary of the establishment of UN Women and the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Security Council resolution on “Women, Peace and Security” next year, Japan will continue to make efforts to achieve gender equality both domestically and abroad.

Thank you for your attention.