Global Women Leaders’ Forum

Official closing and adoption of Declaration of Sofia 

Grand Hotel Sofia

May 20, 2016

Sofia, Bulgaria

Closing speech of  Dr. Eng. Boryana Manolova, Chairperson of the Executive Board of Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria 

Dear Mrs. Bokova,

Mrs. Ture,

Mrs. Fandakova,

Ladies and Gentleman,

The Global Women Leaders’ Forum comes to its end. Over the past few days we had the opportunity to hear and see inspiring examples of leadership, compelling statistics about the role of women in all spheres of society, and multiple perspectives on the topic. Moreover, in those days we were able to establish contacts with people from different countries and professional fields, united by the common desire to contribute to further promotion of gender equality and leadership among women.

If it is possible to make a brief summary of the topics and discussions at the forum, I believe it would sound like this: “There is no turning back.” Business, politics, media, civil society has changed irrevocably and women increasingly take the place they deserve. The concerted efforts of organizations such as UNESCO and the Council of Business Women in Bulgaria as well as the example and the contribution of experienced professionals and inspiring leaders like all of you help.

The Declaration of Women Leaders and Gender Equality, which we accepted in Sofia today, is another step in that direction. It summarizes the basic principles behind which UNESCO and the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria stand, namely the provision of equal opportunities for personal and professional development of both genders.

For us as an organization this document is highly symbolic, as it puts into words what we see as our mission and purpose. We believe that the Declaration of Sofia will be a worthy addition to the list of international documents and conventions that govern matters of gender equality. Because, ultimately, all of us as individuals and as communities gain from it.

I sincerely believe that the global forum of women leaders and the Declaration of Sofia will become a starting point for further discussions and measures to promote equality between men and women worldwide. Because the world is neither male nor female. Politics, business , media, technology, culture, science also cannot be reserved for one gender if we want our societies to move forward. The focus should be placed not on the opposition of men against women but on building social, organizational , legislative and management culture that allows everyone , regardless of gender, to unleash their potential. So I invite you again in May 2017 to gather at Global Women Leaders’ Forum in Sofia and see what we have achieved in a year.

There is no doubt that we are on the path of irreversible change towards more balanced social environment, encompassing the best of the “male” and “female” worlds. But it is true that this transformation may take time. The abandonment of old thought patterns, societal prejudices, discriminatory practices can be a slow and painful process. But there is no turning back. We, the leaders in business, politics, technology, media, people at the forefront, have the mission to help this gentle revolution and to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Here I should thank to the teams of UNESCO and the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria for the excellent organization of the conference, as well as the sponsors of the Global Women Leaders’ Forum in the face of the “Prestige” 96 Siemens Bulgaria, SAP, Ernst & Young, and other companies, which supported the event. Their commitment is further evidence that business has realized the importance of the topic of gender and ready to work actively and systematically to overcome the existing problems, social stigmas and inequalities.

Now I would like to wish you all the best, good luck and boldness! I sincerely hope that each of you will leave Sofia with good memories, valuable contacts and hardened determination to continue working for a more balanced world.

Thank you and good luck!

May 20, 2016
Sofia, Bulgaria

Dr. Eng. Boryana Manolova
Chairperson of the Executive Board of CWBB