« The world is more peaceful, safer and more prosperous when women’s human rights are respected and when they can participate fully in economic, social and political life, » said United States President Joe Biden, in a press release relayed on November 29, 2022, by the State Office on the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Women Human Rights Defenders.
According to the US State Office, these words of President Joe Biden illustrate the impact of women in improving living conditions, establishing peace in times of conflict around the world.
On a daily basis, women human rights defenders face multiple gender-based discrimination and violence.
Other factors such as race, religion, ethnic origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or socio-economic status, constitute obstacles to their full participation in democracy and civic life. These discriminatory acts can lead women to self-censorship, disengagement from public life and discourage political ambitions.
Globally, women human rights defenders are leading the fight against authoritarianism, defending democracy, freedom of expression and promoting solutions to the climate change crisis.
On this International Women Human Rights Defenders Day, the United States pledges to continue working with partners and allies to promote better representation of women in public and political life.
Miriam Luani