Overview
The Commission on the Status of Women is a functional commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), established in 1946. It serves as the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. The CSW plays a crucial role in setting global standards and monitoring progress on gender-related policies. It convenes annually to evaluate progress, identify challenges, and propose forward-looking strategies to promote women's rights across political, economic, and social spheres. As global inequalities persist, the CSW remains central to advancing a truly inclusive and equitable future.
Topic 1: Bridge the Gender Wage Gap
At this conference, the first topic will be attempting to Bridge the Gender Wage Gap. Despite progress in many sectors, a persistent wage gap between men and women exists in nearly every country. The gap is further exacerbated by intersecting factors such as race, disability, and migration status. Delegates must analyze the systemic roots of pay inequality, including occupational segregation, unpaid labor, and discriminatory hiring practices. How can governments ensure equal pay for equal work? Should international guidelines be established for mandatory pay transparency or gender audits in companies? Delegates may explore the role of collective bargaining, social protections, and quotas in fostering equality. A multidimensional approach is needed to not only address wages but also promote gender-equitable career progression, leadership representation, and financial independence.
Topic 2: Pushing for Education in Young Girls
Additionally, the second topic will be Pushing for Education in Young Girls. Access to education for young girls remains a critical issue in many parts of the world, where poverty, cultural norms, early marriage, and conflict pose significant barriers. Delegates must explore how national governments, NGOs, and multilateral institutions can work together to ensure that girls have access to safe, inclusive, and quality education. Should the CSW push for conditional cash transfer programs? How can community engagement, especially with men and local leaders, help dismantle harmful gender norms? Delegates should also consider how digital education, mobile schools, and teacher training programs can overcome structural limitations. Education is not only a human right—it is also a foundation for long-term gender equality, health, and economic empowerment.
The Dais
Asmita Rajappa - Chair
Asmita Rajappa (She/her) is a sophomore at Boston University, originally from Los Angeles. She is studying International Relations in the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, with a minor in Public Policy Analysis. She is enthusiastic about serving as the Chair for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and is looking forward to meeting all the delegates.
At BU, Asmita is actively involved in campus life, currently serving as the Social Chair for the South Asian Student Association and as a brother for the Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity. She is also dedicated to her role in chairing the CSW for BosMUN this year.
Outside of her academics and MUN commitments, Asmita loves learning about different cultures, trying new foods, exploring nature, and spending time at the beach. She also enjoys taking time to relax with a good book or engaging in art.
Asmita is looking forward to all the ideas and perspectives delegates will bring to BosMUN. She trusts that everyone will leave this experience with a better outlook on the topics covered during the Commission on the Status of Women and encourages delegates to reach out with any questions and remember to have fun throughout the conference.
Contact: arajappa@bu.edu
Ryan Limekiller - Vice Chair
Ryan Limekiller is a first-year student at Boston University, originally from Middletown, New Jersey, located along the Jersey Shore. He is currently pursuing a major in Economics within the College of Arts and Sciences and has plans to attend law school following his graduation from BU.
He is very excited to welcome all delegates to the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and looks forward to working alongside Asmita to facilitate productive debate. This committee provides a vital forum for addressing complex global challenges related to gender equality.
Ryan is confident that the delegates will be able to tackle the very complex issues before the CSW and devise innovative and impactful solutions. He is eager to witness the high quality of discussion and collaboration that will take place during the conference.
He encourages all participants to come prepared for thoughtful debate and collaboration. Should any delegates have questions regarding the background guide or the committee procedures, Ryan invites them to feel free to reach out before the conference begins.
Contact: ryanlime@bu.edu