Spotlight Initiative announces new Civil Society Global Reference Group

UNITED NATIONS, New York - Spotlight Initiative is pleased to announce the composition of its newly appointed Civil Society Global Reference Group (CSGRG), a diverse set of leaders from civil society organizations dedicated to eradicating all forms of violence against women and girls. This group represents a powerful coalition of voices from around the world, committed to transformative action within the Initiative’s global framework and advocacy efforts.

Following a rigorous, civil society-led selection process which included a detailed review of over 140 applications from more than 50 countries, 17 outstanding individuals were chosen from 16 different countries. This collaborative approach ensures that the voices of frontline activists and community leaders remain at the heart of the Initiative’s work.

The Global Reference Group will fulfil a triple function within Spotlight Initiative: as advocates, they will champion the Initiative’s goals on behalf of women’s and feminist movements worldwide; as advisors, they will bring vital insights to guide the Initiative’s approach and strategic decisions; and as accountability partners, they will ensure the Initiative remains true to its commitments and objectives.

“Spotlight Initiative’s Global Civil Society Reference Group provides an invaluable space for reflection and connection," said Spotlight Initiative Deputy Global Coordinator Erin Kenny. "It ensures that the Initiative continues to move the needle forward to reach those historically least served by traditional development assistance. Having had the privilege of getting to know this new group, I cannot wait for the dialogues ahead, and the ways in which members will push Spotlight Initiative to do better for women and girls.”

In October, the new CSGRG convened for their first in-person retreat, where they set priorities and identified key areas of focus to drive the Initiative’s work. They then participated in the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) Forum, with support from the Spotlight Initiative Secretariat.

CSGRG members will focus on advancing the Initiative's work across multiple areas, including policy advocacy, survivor support systems, data collection and promoting inclusive civil society participation in global fora. They will work closely with the Spotlight Initiative Secretariat and other key stakeholders to amplify the voices of grassroots organizations, enhance programmatic efforts, and ensure that the Initiative remains responsive to the needs of women and girls worldwide.

The CSGRG members' backgrounds in social justice, human rights and advocacy uniquely position them to provide valuable insights and guidance, further aligning the Initiative's goals with the realities on the ground. As part of their mandate, the CSGRG members will participate in critical policy discussions.

Learn about the new members of the Civil Society Global Reference Group here.