The 37th General Assembly of the International Council of Women in Marrakech

The National Council of Women (Malta), represented by Ms Mary Gaerty (1^st Vice President), Ms Doreen Borg Zammit (Vice President) and Ms Therese Cassola (Assistant Hon. Treasurer) attended the International Council of Women and the European Centre of the International Council of Women (ECICW) General Assembly in Marrakech, Morocco.

The 37th General Assembly of the ICW under the theme “Women’s Empowerment: Peace and Sustainable Development” was held from June 23 to 28, 2025.

Held every three years, the ICW General Assembly serves as a platform to evaluate the global progress of women, assess the work of ICW-affiliated National Councils in advancing the triennial theme, as well as set the agenda for 2025-2028. The Regional Councils convene their respective meetings, making this gathering a unique opportunity to strengthen solidarity, foster collaboration, and expand the global network of women leaders.

The hosts of the ICW 37^th General Assembly were the National Union of Moroccan Women (UNFM), presided by Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Meryem. Amina Oufroukhi, Vice President, UNFM, did the introductory speech. She is a distinguished magistrate, and she has devoted her career to the fight against human trafficking and the advancement of women’s and children’s rights. Other talks by high-ranking Moroccan Government officials followed, highlighting the Moroccan experience – progress, challenges and innovative practices for women and girls. Other days were dedicated to ICW/ECICW affairs.

International Council of Women is the mother of four Regional Councils: that of Africa, America, Asia and Europe. Malta falls under the European Regional Council which is called the European Centre of International Council of Women. Malta is an affiliated member of both ICW and ECICW. A Maltese delegate, Doreen Borg Zammit, a Board Council member of ICW, is once again re-elected.

The Union Nationale des Femmes du Maroc (UNFM) hosted this event, ensuring that participants not only engage in meaningful discussions but also experience the rich culture and undeniable charm of Morocco.

The conference provided a dynamic forum for sharing best practices in designing and implementing socio-economic policies and programs that enhance women’s empowerment, improve living standards, and drive sustainable, inclusive development.

During the General Assembly several resolutions were passed, including Open Access to Education for Girls Worldwide; Combatting all Forms of Harassment; Advancing Gender Equality and Eliminating Gender-based Violence; Promoting Equitable World Peace with Respect for Cultural and Religious Differences; for Women in Diplomacy: a Weapon for Peace; Climate Change; Empowering Women in the Age of New Technologies. These Resolutions will be passed on to each respective government. Malta suggested that important ICW press releases be published on the same day worldwide to have a positive impact.