Meg's update: MDG Side Event: 9-15-2010

GEAR CAmpaign Leaders, Charlotte Bunch, Center Global Leadership; Ms. Joanne Sandler, from UNIFEM were keynote speakers at today's event. Congratulations were extended to Michelle Bachelet, the newly appointed UN Women's Under Secretary General appointee. The new organization will consolidate the four existing UN bodies on women, increase operational capacity at the country level and gain increased funding for women's empowerment and advancement. The speakers briefly explained some highlights of the new Governance. 1. The GA, ECOSOC, and CSW will constitute the multi-tiered intergovernmental governance structure for the normative support functions and will provide normative policy guidance to the entity. 2. gender mainstreaming across the UN system will be integral to the organization. 3. the executive board will consist of 41 members from 5 regional areas, and a few from donor countries. The term of office is for four years, with the possibility of renewal for one term. The appointment of Ms. Bachelet has been highly acclaimed, and promise of support for her has had global affirmation.