China prepares to host a significant women’s conference, 30 years after the historic 1995 gathering. Hibaaq Osman recounts her experiences at the conference where women united across cultures. Despite the U.S. feminist movement’s peak at the time, it faced internal disagreements on issues like reproductive rights, reflecting a broader global feminist agenda.
The upcoming women’s conference in Beijing, marking three decades since the last one, raises questions about the moral authority of China regarding women’s rights amidst perceived regression in the United States. In 1995, the Fourth World Conference on Women encapsulated a powerful message from Hibaaq Osman, asserting that human rights equate to women’s rights. As one of the 30,000 participants, she witnessed the convergence of diverse cultures focused on shared challenges. Osman emphasized the crucial role of American NGOs and feminists, highlighting their push for a comprehensive feminist agenda, despite some contentious issues like reproductive rights that sparked disagreement. She recognized the movement’s global nature, extending beyond the U.S.
The forthcoming conference in China provides an opportunity to reflect on the alignment of women’s rights with broader human rights. Notably, the historical context of the 1995 conference showcases the collective effort towards women’s advocacy, marking a significant moment in the international feminist movement. The contrasting developments in the U.S. and China prompt critical dialogues on moral leadership in championing women’s rights.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
