The first international forum on ‘Dynamic Cities Need Women: Actions and Policies for Gender Equality’ will be held from 3-5 December 2007 in Brussels - the capital of Europe and seat of international decision-makers - in the context of the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All.

This is a joint initiative of the Government of the Brussels Capital Region, host of the Forum and the Metropolis Women International Network. This women network is a part of Metropolis, the World Association of Major Metropolises.

The main objectives of this international Forum are to promote a gender-sensitive approach and to present and discuss the best practices to empower women as citizens and decision-makers.
The event will draw over 700 participants: elected representatives, executives and decision-makers from central, local, metropolitan and regional governments, as well as organisations and academics from all over the world. We will discuss best practices and innovative policies and their impact on gender development and equal access to services in urban areas in order to make cities and metropolises liveable for all.
Keynote speakers will launch the event and tribute will be paid to certain exceptional women.

The core of the activities, featuring 20 practical workshops, will showcase successful strategies, experiences and projects intended to provide learning and networking opportunities for the participants. We will cover the following issues:

A. Social and Demographic Challenges
B. Economic Challenges
C. Urban Environment Challenges
D. Access to Services

The Forum will be brought to a close by a Mayors’ Panel and the signing of the Brussels Declaration, which is a stated commitment by the signatories to take gender mainstreaming into account in their future decision-making.

For more information, visit:
Event