A woman dancing on the street during the ROOTS festival in Banjul, The  Gambia
Photo Credit: Pepite Voyage/iStock/Getty Images

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day serves as a platform to bring attention to the social, political, economic, and cultural challenges that women encounter and advocates for the advancement of women in these areas. Additionally, the day recognises women who have significantly contributed to advancing their gender.

Regrettably, some women are subjected to the harsh realities of gender-based violence, workplace inequality, and societal discrimination.

Gender inequality in the workplace remains a significant challenge. However, we must rise to the challenge by finding multiple solutions and implementing them to gauge their success based on the metrics in question.

Even large corporations like Microsoft, one of the world’s largest tech companies, have faced over 200 sexual harassment complaints from women employees. Similarly, Nike has faced numerous lawsuits filed by former employees seeking to address the toxic culture. In response to related accusations, several C-level executives resigned, indicating that the problem is pervasive throughout the organisation.

The #MeToo campaign sparked a global conversation about sexual violence, exposing numerous victims of gender-based abuse across corporations and governments. The movement aimed to implement strategies that could facilitate long-term and systemic change.

The prevalence of domestic violence and violence against women remains unchanged, with 87,000 women losing their lives. Recent reports from Saudi Arabia alleging the government’s arrest and torture of women activists made world headlines in 2019, despite being vehemently denied. However, a growing resistance has become a powerful force against discrimination and its implications.

We support the Oak Foundation’s initiative to create a world where women can live free from violence and enjoy their full and equal human rights. This vision aligns with our goals. We believe ending violence and striving for gender balance requires changing people’s hearts and minds in governments, civil society organisations, and the general public.

To the millennials and upcoming generations, it is a crucial responsibility to challenge archaic views that subject women to discrimination based on outdated stereotypes. By raising awareness and promoting gender equality, we can make meaningful progress towards a fairer and more just society.