Ulaanbaatar hosted the Asian Women Parliamentarian Caucus (AWPC) meeting, highlighting women leaders cooperation and sustainable economic empowerment. Moreover, officials emphasized that gender equality boosts both social and economic progress.
The conference opened under the theme “Achieving Gender Equality through Economic Empowerment: Policies for a Sustainable Future.” Furthermore, delegates stressed that women leaders cooperation can address structural barriers in the workforce. On the second day, the “Women in the Workforce: Closing the Pay Gap” session examined wage disparities in multiple industries.
Experts pointed out that low wages and unpaid work significantly affect women’s financial independence. In Mongolia, for example, men dominate higher-paying sectors such as construction and mining, which limits women’s leadership opportunities. Consequently, Member of Parliament Jargalan Batbayar stressed that economic inequality requires urgent attention to enable women’s growth and participation.
Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament Amarbaysgalan Dashzegve highlighted that enhancing women’s political participation reduces poverty and strengthens national competence. He also noted the launch of the “Women Entrepreneur Finance Code” project, which facilitates access to international funding. This initiative, therefore, reflects Mongolia’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
Additionally, the session “The Role of Parliaments in Advancing Gender Equality” was chaired by Member of Parliament Munkhsoyol Baatarjav. Presenters included Dr. Kaushalya Ariyarathne of Sri Lanka and Megha Sarma from the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. They argued that legislative priorities, such as education and healthcare funding, shape gender sensitivity and human rights outcomes.
Further discussions addressed digital transformation, unpaid care work, and women’s entrepreneurship. For instance, sessions focused on artificial intelligence, digital finance, and best practices supporting women in both domestic and professional roles. Delegates exchanged regional experiences to foster practical solutions and policy alignment.
The meeting brought together parliamentarians and representatives from Bhutan, Japan, India, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Germany. Co-organized by the State Great Khural and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the event aimed to strengthen women leaders cooperation across Asia.
Finally, delegates concluded that sustained collaboration, innovative policies, and financial initiatives are critical for achieving gender equality. They also committed to continued dialogue and cross-border projects to empower women economically and politically.
