Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell participated on Wednesday March 11 in a Ministerial Round Table on “Achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all older women” during the seventieth session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) at UN Headquarters in New York.
The discussion formed part of the Commission’s priority theme for 2026: “Ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls, including by promoting inclusive and equitable legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices, and addressing structural barriers.”
Speaking as part of the delegation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands representing Sint Maarten, Minister Arrindell delivered remarks on behalf of the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor of Sint Maarten, Richinel Brug.
In her address, Minister Arrindell reflected on the significance of International Women’s Day, observed globally on March 8, highlighting the achievements, resilience and contributions of women across all sectors of society. She emphasized that the empowerment of older women is an increasingly important issue as societies evolve and populations age. Older women, she noted, often face specific challenges related to economic security, health and social wellbeing, despite decades of contributions to families, workplaces and communities.
“Older women represent an extraordinary source of knowledge, resilience and leadership,” Minister Arrindell stated. “Their experiences and cultural wisdom play a critical role in strengthening families, mentoring younger generations and sustaining communities.”
Minister Arrindell also highlighted initiatives taking place in Sint Maarten aimed at supporting the wellbeing and independence of seniors. She referenced the Senior Connect event, recently organized by the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, which brought together organizations and service providers to inform seniors about available programs, resources and support networks.
According to Minister Arrindell, such initiatives demonstrate that older women remain highly engaged members of society and continue to play a vital role in community life. “Achieving gender equality requires a life-course approach, one that recognizes the needs, rights and potential of women from youth through older age,” she noted. The Minister concluded by reaffirming Sint Maarten’s commitment to policies and partnerships that support women at every stage of life.
The Commission on the Status of Women brings together government representatives, international organizations and civil society from around the world to discuss progress and challenges in advancing gender equality. The seventieth session continues through 19 March at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
