Meaning: The quote by Jenny Shipley, a prominent New Zealand politician and stateswoman, reflects on the importance of women's participation in decision-making and appraisal processes within the United Nations. The quote specifically references a conference that took place in Nairobi, Kenya, ten years prior to the statement. In order to fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the context of the Nairobi conference and examine the broader implications of women's participation in international organizations such as the United Nations.

The conference in Nairobi that Shipley refers to is likely the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women, which was held in September 1995. This conference was a significant event that brought together representatives from governments, non-governmental organizations, and the international community to address issues related to gender equality and women's rights. The conference resulted in the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a comprehensive document outlining strategic objectives and actions for achieving gender equality and empowering women worldwide.

Shipley's statement underscores the crucial role that women play in shaping the policies and decisions of international organizations like the United Nations. By emphasizing the importance of women's participation in decision-making and appraisal processes, she highlights the need for diverse perspectives and voices to be included in these critical discussions. This aligns with the broader goals of the Beijing Declaration, which called for the increased representation of women in decision-making positions at all levels of government and international organizations.

The significance of Shipley's statement extends beyond the specific context of the Nairobi conference. It speaks to the broader issue of gender equality and the need for women's inclusion in leadership and decision-making roles across all sectors of society. Research has consistently shown that diverse teams and leadership groups, including women, are more effective at problem-solving and decision-making. By advocating for women's participation in decision-making processes, Shipley is promoting not only gender equality but also the overall effectiveness and success of international organizations like the United Nations.

In the years following the Nairobi conference and Shipley's statement, there has been progress in increasing women's representation in leadership roles within the United Nations and other international bodies. Efforts to promote gender parity and diversity have led to the appointment of more women to senior positions, including as heads of UN agencies and programs. However, despite these advancements, there is still work to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities to participate in decision-making and appraisal processes at all levels of the United Nations and other global institutions.

Shipley's quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of advocating for women's participation in decision-making processes within the United Nations and beyond. It reinforces the idea that achieving gender equality and empowering women is not only a matter of social justice but also a practical necessity for creating more effective and inclusive international governance. As the world continues to strive for greater gender equality and diversity, Shipley's words remain a powerful call to action for ensuring that women's voices are heard and valued in the highest levels of decision-making.