How Soroptimist clubs empower women and girls through purposeful projects, public awareness, and advocacy at all levels.
Our Mission in Practice
At the heart of Soroptimism is Programme Action—the projects and initiatives through which we enable, empower, and educate women and girls. Our work goes beyond words; we raise awareness, advocate for change, and take meaningful action to improve lives.
From supporting survivors of domestic abuse to campaigning for gender equality, our clubs actively engage in local, national, and international initiatives. We organise events, fundraise, and collaborate with organisations to drive real impact.
One recent example is our Special Domestic Abuse Courts project in South Wales, where members observed court proceedings to assess the justice system’s response to domestic abuse. This study, inspired by work across Soroptimist International of Great Britain and Ireland (SIGBI), reflects our commitment to evidence-based advocacy.
Our Impact at a Global Level
On completion of every project, a special report is submitted to SIGBI, detailing how it has contributed to key areas: Empowerment, Enablement, Education, Awareness, Advocacy, or Action. These reports also highlight which of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the project supports.
As an organisation with consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), SIGBI plays a vital role in shaping global discussions on women’s rights. ECOSOC established the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in 1947, a key UN body dedicated to gender equality. The CSW is instrumental in documenting the reality of women and girls’ lives, setting global standards, and driving progress for gender equality worldwide.
With consultative status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), SIGBI plays an active role in shaping global gender equality discussions. Through ECOSOC, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) works to set international standards and drive progress for women and girls worldwide.
Overview of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is the leading global body dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. Established by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), it brings together representatives from UN Member States, civil society organisations, and experts to assess progress, address challenges, and develop policies that drive change.
Each year, the CSW focuses on a priority theme, tackling key issues such as economic empowerment, gender-based violence, education, and women’s leadership. It plays a vital role in documenting the realities of women and girls worldwide, shaping international standards, and influencing legislation and social reforms.
Through its work, the CSW ensures that gender equality remains a central focus on the global agenda, driving action towards a more just and equitable world for women and girls.