By Burnett Munthali

The United Nations recently marked the 50th International Women’s Day with a powerful call for gender equality.

At the heart of this celebration was a speech by UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous, delivered at the UN General Assembly Hall on March 7, 2025.

Bahous emphasized that the urgency of gender equality has never been greater, nor have the challenges been more apparent.

She acknowledged the growing obstacles faced by women and girls but reaffirmed that the movement for gender equality remains unshakable.

Her speech aligned with the UN Secretary-General’s Gender Equality Acceleration Plan, which calls for a united front to champion women’s rights and dismantle systemic inequalities.

Bahous highlighted the importance of protecting women human rights defenders, who often face threats for their activism.

She stressed that achieving equality for all women and girls is not just a slogan but a commitment that the world must honor.

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day was clear: “For ALL women and girls. Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”

Bahous reminded the audience that equality with exceptions is not true equality.

She acknowledged that history has repeatedly seen pushback against gender equality, but insisted that this resistance must not deter the movement.

She stated that the movement for women’s rights is growing and encompasses individuals across the world, whether physically present or engaging remotely.

Bahous celebrated the power of International Women’s Day as a moment of unity for those who believe in the cause of gender equality.

She also took time to reflect on key anniversaries that reinforce the global commitment to women’s rights.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark agreement on gender equality.

She expressed hope that its commitments would be reaffirmed in a strong political declaration at the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Additionally, this year is the 25th anniversary of Security Council Resolution 1325, which recognizes the vital role of women in peace and security.

Bahous linked these milestones to the final stretch of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its gender-related goals.

She argued that true progress requires placing women at the center of decision-making processes in all areas of life.

She pointed out that in conflict zones such as Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Palestine, Gaza, Haiti, Myanmar, and Sudan, women bear the heaviest burdens.

Yet, despite these hardships, she emphasized that when women are included in peace processes, the results are more inclusive and sustainable.

Bahous underscored that societies thrive when women’s voices are heard and economies prosper when women lead.

She urged leaders across all sectors—from governments to boardrooms, classrooms to households—to embrace women’s equality as a fundamental solution to global challenges.

She spoke passionately about the transformative power of women’s leadership, citing real-world examples where gender equality has led to progress.

She also acknowledged the inspiring young women and girls she has met, who continue to push for change and offer innovative solutions.

She shared that these young leaders remind her of the urgency and potential for progress.

Bahous admitted that she is not blind to the realities of violence, discrimination, and misogyny that women still face.

However, she expressed unwavering certainty that gender equality is the key to accelerating progress and transforming societies.

She challenged the world to make the right choices—choices that will be remembered in history as defining moments for gender justice.

She called on all stakeholders to stand firm in choosing rights, equality, and empowerment for all women and girls.

She concluded with a powerful declaration that the movement is unstoppable, the resolve unbreakable, and the cause undeniable.

As she wished everyone a happy International Women’s Day, she also extended her best wishes to those observing Ramadan, emphasizing peace and hope.

Her speech served as a resounding reminder that gender equality is not just a vision but an achievable reality that requires collective commitment and action.