UN President of the General Assembly harnesses the HeForShe Barbershop Toolbox in his Latest “Gayap Dialogues”

Under the umbrella of General Assembly resolution 72/313, the President of the General Assembly has spearheaded a series of dialogues known as the Gayap Dialogues. In the indigenous Carib language, the word "Gayap" means “many hands make light work” – a striking illustration of collective effort and collaboration. These dialogues seek to foster informal exchanges on issues of concern to the United Nations and the international community at large, with a view to rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity.

On March 7th, ahead of International Women’s Day, H.E. Mr. Dennis Francis, President of the seventy-eighth session of the General Assembly, convened a special Gayap Dialogue in partnership with the government of Iceland. This session convened male Permanent Representatives to deliberate on the pivotal role men play in advancing gender equality. The session revisited the HeForShe Barbershop concept, originally developed by HeForShe in collaboration with former HeForShe Champion, the government of Sweden, underscoring the imperative for male engagement in dismantling gender barriers.

“Yesterday, a special edition of the PGA’s Gayap Dialogue was held in collaboration with the permanent mission of Iceland adopting the barbershop concept to engage male permanent representatives as agents of change in ongoing global efforts to advance gender equality. It was a most successful exercise.” - President of the 78th session of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis

HeForShe Barbershop events provide a platform for men and boys to actively participate in the promotion of gender equality. By fostering a deeper understanding of the ways in which gender inequality impedes individual, economic, and social progress, these events equip men with the tools to effect positive change. Through introspection and advocacy, men are empowered to challenge existing social norms, hold themselves and others accountable, and champion the cause of gender equality.

As we continue our journey towards gender equality, let us heed the call to action embedded within the Gayap Dialogues. Together, through concerted effort and unwavering commitment, we can create a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive and fulfill their potential.