Outrage over Katalin Novák's comments in Rwanda, as Women Deliver president tries to reassure participants

The President and CEO of the Women Deliver conference held earlier this week in Kigali, Rwanda, has published an open letter, reassuring those who were outraged by the invitation of Hungarian President Katalin Novák to participate in the event focusing on gender equality.

"I agree with very little of what President Novak believes in, espouses or takes forward. And I am sure she agrees with very, very, very little of what I believe in, especially around our views on the role of women, reproductive rights and justice and other issues. It’s also important to note that if we want to achieve our goals as a feminist community, we have to talk with people whom we don’t always agree with.

Women Deliver's stance on promoting gender equality and women's rights is unwavering and unambiguous. We are determined to stand by our values while also welcoming feedback, differing opinions, and criticism. The presence of President Novak at the opening ceremony does not reflect nor will it change our commitment to these values" Maliha Khan, President and CEO of the conference wrote in the letter, pointing out that the Rwandan government, who led the opening ceremony, had been an "incredible partner and host". She further stated that

“President Novak’s views on gender equality, inclusion, and sexual and reproductive health and rights are in no way aligned to the views of Women Deliver, so I am glad that there is a backlash.”

The conference president also said that when organising the conference, they had "sought the cooperation of all heads of state and government, although she herself disagreed with the decision to include Novák in the event". Novák has been criticised mainly for her previous actions during her time as Minister of Family Affairs, and over Hungary's abortion legislation and the anti-LGBTQI+ law.

Speaking at a panel discussion, Katalin Novák said that electing a woman as president doesn't mean a country has achieved gender equality, but it is a very good start. She pointed out that in Hungary there are more women graduating from university every year than men, and the number of female university graduates in the workforce is higher than that of men.

"The main challenge women face is the decision between motherhood and a career," she said in response to a question. According to her, in Hungary, women can choose both, thanks to the support provided by the state, because women are needed both in the labour market and in the family.

The Women Deliver conference, which aims to improve women's rights and health and advocates gender equality, attracted 6,000 participants to Kigali this year.