International Women's Day 2023

As we mark International Women’s Day 2023 I recognise how fortunate I have been in benefiting from women’s campaigns over the years for equality. It has allowed us to rise in our careers and realise our full potential. Of course, at times we have had to deal with the extreme misogynists. But the key to the future is to ensure that women globally are able to be educated, and accepted at every level.

The most significant inequality that I have witnessed is the challenges faced by women and girls in other parts of the world such as Afghanistan, Somalia, and Syria; where women face gender-based violence and extreme disadvantages. Many of these countries have been in conflict for decades, leaving women facing regressive gender norms.

I refer to the Women Peace and Security Index which ranks 170 countries in terms of their women's rights. This index is important to reveal to the world that these indiscretions on women happen every day, and that we must all join to try to raise the rights of women globally.

As we continue in 2023 I call on all governments and organisations to double down on their commitments, policies and actions that will ensure we design and deliver a more equitable world. It will only become a reality if we collaborate together.

Baroness Mary Goudie