Dear BPW Members,
I am very proud to announce that BPW International has been elected to the Board of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO), during its 28th General Assembly held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, from October 27 to 29, 2025.
This remarkable achievement strengthens BPW International’s long-standing collaboration with the United Nations and reaffirms our global commitment to advancing women’s leadership, equality, and empowerment.
Founded in 1930, BPW International is a global network of business and professional women present in more than 100 countries across five continents. Our mission is to develop women’s leadership, professional, and business potential through advocacy, mentoring, networking, and lifelong learning.
CoNGO (The Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations) was established in 1948 to promote, facilitate, and coordinate the participation of NGOs in United Nations activities. By being elected to its Board, BPW International now joins other distinguished organizations in strengthening the relationship between civil society and the United Nations.
What This Means for BPW International
This election gives BPW International a stronger voice within the global decision-making arena, allowing us to:
- Advocate more effectively for women’s leadership and gender equality.
- Build new alliances with NGOs and international partners.
- Increase our visibility and participation in key UN initiatives and forums.
- Bring the perspectives and priorities of women from all regions of the world into global discussions.
Representing BPW International at this important event were Past International President Elizabeth Benham, UN New York Representative Nermin Ahmad, and BPW New York members Stella Demmert, Phurpa Sherpa, and Diya Adhikari.
Moving Forward
Our next steps include active participation in CoNGO Board and Committee meetings in New York, Geneva, and Vienna.
Under the leadership of BPW International Vice President for United Nations Advocacy, Neelima Basnet, our organization will strengthen its engagement with the UN system, ensuring that the BPW voice remains present and impactful in key international forums.
BPW International will also engage our network of Regional Coordinators, Standing Committees, and Young BPW members to ensure that our organization continues to be a strong voice for women in all sectors of society.
We will develop initiatives and dialogues that bring together our members worldwide, empowering them to contribute to the United Nations agenda and ensuring that our collective voice continues to shape a more equal and sustainable future for all women.
Warm regards,
Diana Barragán
President, BPW International
