International Women’s Day,
observed annually on March 8th, is a global celebration of the social,
economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is also a call to
action for accelerating gender equality and addressing the challenges that women
continue to face worldwide. This year, as we commemorate the 30th anniversary
of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a landmark agreement adopted
in 1995 at the Fourth World Conference on Women—we have an opportunity to
reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the work that remains, and recommit
ourselves to uplifting and empowering women through stories, songs, and other
forms of creative expression.
The Beijing Conference was a
turning point in the global fight for gender equality. It brought together 189
governments and thousands of activists to outline a comprehensive roadmap for
advancing women’s rights. The resulting declaration identified 12 critical
areas of concern, including poverty, education, health, violence against women,
and participation in decision-making. Over the past three decades, significant
strides have been made in many of these areas. More girls are attending school
than ever before, maternal mortality rates have declined, and women’s
representation in political and corporate leadership has increased. These
achievements are a testament to the power of collective action and the tireless
efforts of activists, policymakers, and ordinary individuals who have
championed gender equality.
However, despite these gains, the vision of the Beijing Declaration remains unfinished. Gender-based violence continues to plague societies, with one in three women worldwide experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. The gender pay gap persists, with women earning, on average, 20% less than men for the same work. Women, particularly those from marginalized communities, still face barriers to accessing healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated many of these inequalities, disproportionately affecting women’s employment, unpaid care responsibilities, and mental health. These challenges remind us that the fight for gender equality is far from over.
To address these persistent
issues, we must harness the power of storytelling, music, and art to inspire
change and empower women. Stories have the unique ability to humanize complex
issues, challenge stereotypes, and foster empathy. By amplifying the voices of
women—especially those from underrepresented communities—we can create
narratives that celebrate their resilience, strength, and contributions to
society. Films, books, and television shows that portray women as leaders,
innovators, and change-makers can challenge traditional gender roles and
inspire future generations.
Music, too, has the power to
unite and uplift. From protest songs that fuelled the suffrage movement to
anthems that celebrate female empowerment, music has long been a tool for
social change. Artists today can continue this legacy by creating songs that
address issues such as gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, and the
importance of self-worth. Collaborations between musicians and activists can
further amplify these messages, reaching diverse audiences and sparking
meaningful conversations.
Art in all its forms—visual,
performance, and digital—can also play a pivotal role in advancing gender
equality. Public art installations that honour women’s achievements, theatre
productions that explore gender dynamics, and digital campaigns that raise
awareness about women’s rights can all contribute to a more inclusive and
equitable world. By supporting female artists and providing platforms for their
work, we can ensure that their perspectives are heard and valued.
As we celebrate International
Women’s Day and reflect on the progress since Beijing, we must also look to the
future with determination and hope. The journey toward gender equality requires
the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and governments. It demands
that we challenge harmful norms, advocate for policy changes, and support
initiatives that empower women and girls. It also calls on each of us to
examine our own biases and take action in our daily lives—whether by mentoring
a young woman, supporting female-owned businesses, or simply listening to and
amplifying women’s voices.
In the words of Audre Lorde,
“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very
different from my own.” This International Women’s Day, let us celebrate the
progress we have made while recognizing that our work is not done. Let us strive
to create a world where every woman and girl can live with dignity, equality,
and opportunity. And let us use the power of stories, songs, and art to uplift,
inspire, and empower women everywhere. Together, we can build a future that
honours the vision of Beijing and ensures that no one is left behind
#WID2025 #Gender equality
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