Women Deliver Conference 2026 Opens in Melbourne, Calls for Rebalance Power in Gender Equality Efforts
The Women Deliver Conference 2026 has officially commenced in Melbourne, bringing together more than 5,000 delegates from over 185 countries to advance global discussions on gender equality. Held from April 27 to 30 in Narrm, the gathering convenes political leaders, grassroots activists, advocates, funders, journalists, and youth প্রতিনিধatives at a critical moment marked by rising global conflicts, shrinking civic space, and mounting challenges to women’s rights.
A key highlight of the conference is the launch of the Melbourne Declaration, a landmark commitment aimed at rebalancing power, resources, and accountability across the gender equality landscape. The declaration calls on governments to uphold human rights obligations, empowers civil society and feminist movements to hold institutions accountable, and urges international actors to support — rather than replace — locally led initiatives. Speaking ahead of the opening, Dr Maliha Khan underscored the urgency of collective dialogue.
“This is a critical time for humanity. We must come together — from global leaders to grassroots activists — to address the pressing challenges we face and explore how the gender equality movement can help drive meaningful solutions,” she said. Dr Khan highlighted the importance of inclusive discussions, noting that diverse lived experiences would shape the dialogue and help determine future actions. She also stressed that women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals are disproportionately affected by crises such as climate change, militarisation, and conflict.
“They must not only be recognised as the most affected but also be at the forefront of leadership and solutions,” she added, expressing optimism that the current global challenges could create opportunities for transformative change. Hosting the conference in the Oceanic Pacific region for the first time marks a strategic shift in amplifying voices from underrepresented regions. Dr Khan said the choice of location aims to spotlight both the challenges and innovative solutions emerging from the region.
Victoria’s Minister for Women and Girls, Gabrielle Williams, welcomed the global gathering, stating that the region is proud to host one of the world’s largest forums on women’s rights. “Progress for women and girls is not guaranteed — it must be continuously fought for and protected. Bringing global leaders together is essential to sustaining that progress,” she said. Meanwhile, Noelene Nabulivou, Executive Director of DIVA for Equality and Co-Chair of the Regional Steering Committee for the conference, emphasised the significance of the Melbourne Declaration as both a regional and global call to action.
“For too long, decisions affecting our communities were made elsewhere. This declaration demands that power and resources shift to the people and movements driving change on the ground,” she said. The Melbourne Declaration, shaped through extensive global consultation, is expected to serve as a shared political framework to strengthen human rights accountability while centring the leadership of local and national feminist movements worldwide. The conference is expected to conclude on April 30 with renewed commitments and collaborative strategies aimed at advancing gender equality across the globe.
