UN Marks International Women’s Day with Urgent Call to Action
During the 2025 Commemoration of International Women’s Day in New York, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed emphasized the ongoing struggle for women’s rights. She acknowledged the sacrifices made by activists and organizations that have paved the way for progress. However, she highlighted that significant challenges remain, including violence, discrimination, and economic inequality faced by women and girls worldwide.
Honoring the Legacy of Women’s Activism
As the world gathers to celebrate International Women’s Day, Amina Mohammed paid tribute to the generations of women who have fought tirelessly for the rights enjoyed today. She recognized the critical role of women rights activists, feminist movements, and civil society organizations in advancing gender equality. Their relentless efforts have led to hard-won gains, but the fight is far from over. Mohammed stressed that this struggle is not merely symbolic; it is a real battle for the rights and dignity of women and girls everywhere.
“Every hard-won gain is a testament to their relentless efforts,” she stated, underscoring the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who came before. The Deputy Secretary-General invoked Eleanor Roosevelt’s poignant question about the origins of universal human rights, reminding attendees that these rights begin in the everyday lives of individuals, particularly women and girls.
Confronting Everyday Injustices
Despite the progress made, Mohammed pointed out that women continue to face significant injustices in their daily lives. Many women experience violence in their own homes, discrimination and unequal pay at work, and harassment online. These challenges stifle their economic potential and limit their opportunities for growth and empowerment.
Moreover, women disproportionately shoulder the burden of unpaid care work, which further restricts their ability to participate fully in the labor market. Mohammed emphasized that when women are denied equal access to education and employment, they are effectively barred from shaping the future they deserve. “These are the everyday injustices that women and girls face,” she said, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.
A Commitment to Gender Equality
Mohammed reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to advancing gender equality and dismantling systemic discrimination. She called for a collective effort to reverse centuries of inequality and prevent any rollbacks in women’s rights. “Our journey is not over,” she declared, emphasizing the need for relentless action to defend and promote the rights of all women and girls, regardless of their backgrounds.
In her remarks, she made it clear that when faced with resistance, the movement for gender equality will not back down. “When the patriarchy pushes back, so will we,” she asserted, drawing on the strength of past victories to inspire future efforts. The Deputy Secretary-General reminded the audience that the UN was founded on the principle of non-discrimination, a principle that remains central to its mission today.
Working Together for a Better Future
In closing, Mohammed urged global leaders and citizens alike to unite in their commitment to gender equality. She expressed confidence that together, the world can create an environment where every woman and girl can live with dignity, freedom, and opportunity. “Together, we have the power to succeed,” she said, calling for collaborative efforts to champion the rights of women and girls everywhere.
The message was clear: the fight for gender equality is ongoing, and it requires the dedication and action of all to ensure that the rights of women and girls are upheld and advanced in every aspect of life.
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