Statement by H.E. Ambassador UMETSU Shigeru, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the UN Women Executive Board Annual Session 2026

 
Thank you, Mr. President.
 
I would like to start by expressing my sincere appreciation to the Executive Director Sima Bahous for her opening statement and comprehensive annual report.
 
Japan deeply appreciates UN Women's tireless efforts toward the achievement of SDG 5, as reflected in the Annual Report and anchored in the Strategic Plan 2022–2025. UN-Women’s achievement of 61% of indicator targets and good performance for 88% of indicators at the development results output level demonstrates resilient capabilities in the face of global divisions and backlash. Japan remains steadfast in its unwavering support for UN Women as it stands at the forefront of realizing SDG 5.
 
Japan also welcomes the fact that active bilateral dialogue has been maintained through Executive Director's visit to Japan on the occasion of the UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination (CEB) this year, following her visit last December. Japan highly values the continued accumulation of substantive dialogue, including the subsequent Policy Dialogue between UN Women and the Government of Japan, and the bilateral meeting of Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs ERI Arfiya with Deputy Executive Director Kirsi Madi in May of this year.
 
Japan strongly recognizes UN Women as an indispensable partner in advancing gender equality, women's empowerment, and Women, Peace and Security (WPS). Japan remains fully committed to maintaining and further strengthening this close partnership going forward.

Regarding the ongoing discussions on the proposed merger of UN Women and UNFPA, it is Japan's utmost priority to ensure that the mandates of both entities are preserved, regardless of which option is ultimately pursued. Japan also strongly urges that the process be conducted with full transparency.
 
Mr. President,
 
Japan, as an Executive Board member, will continue to work closely with UN Women in further advancing its mandate.
 
I thank you.