EQUALS Community Comes Together to Shape the Next Chapter

From strategic discussions among Principals and Focal Points to an informal Partner Get-Together, the EQUALS community aligned on EQUALS 2.0, strengthened partnerships, and set priorities for the years ahead.

7–9 July 2026 – Geneva: During a week of meetings and community engagement in Geneva, the EQUALS Global Partnership brought together its Board of Principals, Focal Points, and partners to define the next phase of the partnership. The discussions focused on implementing EQUALS 2.0, strengthening collaboration across the partnership, and advancing our shared ambition to empower 100 million women and girls by 2035.

Advancing the EQUALS 2.0 Vision

The week began with meetings of the EQUALS Board of Principals and Focal Points, where participants reviewed the significant progress made over the past year. Discussions highlighted the successful implementation of the partnership's renewed governance structure, mission and vision, the establishment of the three thematic workstreams, and the continued growth of the EQUALS community, which now includes more than 50 active partners.

Building on this strong foundation, Principals discussed the operationalization of EQUALS 2.0 through a strategy centred on three priorities:

• mobilising measurable partner commitments and tracking collective results;

• creating a stronger, more partner-driven and sustainable partnership; and

• increasing EQUALS' global visibility through coordinated advocacy, communications and strategic engagement.

  
  

Throughout the discussions, Principals reaffirmed the importance of collaboration, evidence-based action, and delivering tangible impact through the partnership.

Strengthening Collaboration Across the Partnership

The meetings also provided an opportunity for co-founders to identify new opportunities for collaboration and resource mobilization. Discussions explored ways to strengthen partner engagement, enhance knowledge sharing, expand research collaboration, and build a more sustainable partnership that delivers greater value to its members.

Participants also emphasized the importance of showcasing the collective impact of EQUALS, strengthening communications, and amplifying partner initiatives through joint advocacy and coordinated outreach.

Bringing the Community Together

The week's discussions culminated in an informal EQUALS Partner Get-Together on 9 July, bringing together long-standing partners, prospective partners, and members of the wider digital community.

The gathering provided a space for participants to learn more about EQUALS 2.0, exchange ideas, strengthen existing relationships, and explore new opportunities for collaboration across governments, international organizations, the private sector, academia, and civil society.

Through networking and interactive discussions, participants reflected on how their organizations can contribute to the EQUALS mission—whether by sharing knowledge, mentoring others, showcasing initiatives, building partnerships, or creating new opportunities for women and girls in the digital economy.

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Looking Ahead

The meetings and partner gathering reinforced a shared commitment to making EQUALS 2.0 a truly collaborative partnership. As EQUALS moves from strategy to implementation, partners will play a central role in delivering measurable commitments, expanding the partnership's reach, and accelerating progress towards closing the digital gender divide.

We thank all Principals, Focal Points, partners, and guests who joined us in Geneva. Together, we are building a stronger global partnership that will help create a more inclusive and equitable digital future for women and girls.

Stay connected for updates on upcoming EQUALS initiatives, partnership opportunities, and future events.