Speaking via a recorded message, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed emphasized that despite progress, no country has yet achieved full gender equality. She noted that gender-based violence remains one of the biggest barriers, directly affecting the health, education and development opportunities of women and girls.

As a keynote speaker, Ambassador Do Hung Viet, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, stressed that “breaking barriers” is not only about symbolic achievements but, more importantly, about ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls in all circumstances.

He affirmed that Vietnamese women have long been a core and pioneering force, from national defense to socio-economic development, while also highlighting Vietnam’s achievements in promoting gender equality and supporting victims of gender-based violence.