Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women and Girls for a Resilient Future
  • This year’s International Women’s Day in Geneva highlights the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, emphasizing progress and future commitments to gender equality.
  • The theme focuses on empowering young women and girls as vital agents of change in achieving equality, particularly in education, health, and climate justice.
  • Amidst challenges like climate change and the digital gender divide, young leaders are poised to shape a more inclusive world.
  • International dialogues aim to bridge generational insights, catalyzing robust international partnerships for gender equality.
  • The event underscores sustained commitment to women’s rights, envisioning a society where women lead freely and express their influence globally.
  • The gathering calls for innovative approaches and systemic changes, pushing for gender equality as a tangible, achievable goal.
  • International Women’s Day 2025 sets a forward-looking agenda, urging continued investment in young women’s futures for long-term societal impact.

A vibrant tapestry of voices will unite in Geneva for this year’s International Women’s Day, a moment both historical and forward-looking, dedicated to charting new pathways for gender equality. As March 2025 marks thirty years since the groundbreaking Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the world pauses not just to celebrate the strides made but to ignite a renewed call for change—a change that hinges upon the empowerment of young women and girls poised to lead us into a more equitable future.

The Power of Youth in Global Transformation

At the heart of this year’s theme is the fierce potential of youth, particularly adolescent girls, in catalyzing enduring societal transformations. We are on the cusp of a revolution where young voices could become the powerful engine driving advancements in education, health, and climate justice—arenas that remain critical in the global quest for equality. As technological shifts bring forth challenges such as the digital gender divide, these young leaders face an unprecedented opportunity to reshape a fairer, more inclusive world where equal rights and opportunities are no longer aspirational but lived realities.

The Complex Landscape of 2025

Yet, navigating today’s intricate global landscape requires more than aspiration. Imagine a world still wrestling with the burgeoning threats of climate change and conflicts, while the digital realm bursts open with innovations like generative AI. Gender inequality persists, quietly but stubbornly, in these evolving contours of modern society. It is within this context that the anniversary of the BPfA presents itself not merely as a commemoration, but as a call to action. This year’s intergenerational dialogue, championed by UN Women and partners, aims to solidify the commitment to resonating change.

United in Dialogue, Stronger in Action

The discussions will be rich and varied—a harmonious blend of seasoned perspectives and youthful visionaries. From esteemed figures like H.E. Ms. Tatiana Valovaya of the UN Office in Geneva to the promising insights of James Mumo Nyumu, a student devoted to international and development studies, the event promises a dynamic exchange of ideas. Every statement, whether from high-ranking diplomats or emerging youth advocates, fuels the momentum needed to dismantle barriers and reinvent a global community where women lead fully and freely.

This assembly signifies more than a ceremonial event; it embodies a reimagined society that embraces equality as its cornerstone. Through their collective voices, participants will underscore the importance of sustained commitment and systemic changes—approaching gender equality not as an abstract ideal but as a tangible, achievable goal.

A Future Defined by Equal Opportunities

As the dialogue concludes, the key takeaway emerges—unwavering dedication to the cause of women’s rights and empowerment can transform the trials of today into triumphs for tomorrow. By investing in young women’s futures, we embed resilience and innovation into the very fabric of our global society. This International Women’s Day marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where every initiative, no matter how small, contributes to a mosaic of progress that promises lasting impact for everyone, everywhere.

As we applaud the progress made over the past thirty years, let us also pledge to act with renewed vigor to unlock a world where women and girls are not just participants but leaders, architects of a future defined by equality and opportunity for all.

Empowering Women: The Unyielding Drive Towards Global Gender Equality

The Significance of the Beijing Declaration’s 30th Anniversary

The International Women’s Day event in Geneva marks a vital juncture in the ongoing journey toward gender equality. As we observe thirty years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA), it’s essential to assess both the milestones achieved and the road yet to be traveled. The BPfA, adopted in 1995, remains one of the most comprehensive policy agendas for women’s rights and empowerment, addressing issues from education and health to violence against women.

The Power of Youth in Global Transformation

A central theme of this year’s celebration is the empowerment of youth, particularly young women and girls. By investing in their potential, society hopes to inspire transformational changes in key areas such as education, health, and climate justice. As these young leaders embrace digital technologies, they bring fresh perspectives to bridge the digital gender divide, fostering a more inclusive and equitable future.

Real-World Use Cases and How To Steps:
Education Initiatives: Programs focusing on STEM education for girls can help close the gender gap in tech-driven industries.
How-To: Encourage schools to integrate coding and technology as part of their regular curriculum starting from primary education.
Health Advocacy: Supporting young women’s leadership in health-related fields can address gender-specific health issues more effectively.
How-To: Advocate for girls’ health clubs in schools to discuss reproductive health and rights openly.

Navigating the Complex Landscape of 2025

The current global landscape is an intricate tapestry of challenges, including climate change, technological advancement, and persistent gender inequality. With innovations like generative AI, there’s potential for growth, yet there’s also a risk of widening disparities if not inclusively addressed.

Insights & Predictions:
Technology’s Role: By 2030, women are projected to hold only 25% of digital jobs (World Economic Forum). Addressing the digital divide now is crucial.
Climate Change Impact: Women, especially in lower-income countries, will disproportionately experience the adverse effects of climate change due to existing inequalities.

United in Dialogue, Stronger in Action

The gathering in Geneva is more than ceremonial; it’s a vibrant dialogue involving multiple generations, capturing both seasoned insights and fresh ideas. By fostering such discussions, there’s hope for dismantling systemic barriers preventing women from reaching leadership positions.

Pros & Cons Overview:
Pros: Intergenerational dialogue offers fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Cons: Potential generational gaps in priorities might need careful mediation.

A Future Defined by Equal Opportunities

To define the future by equality, a sustained commitment to women’s rights and empowerment is non-negotiable. With initiatives that range from grassroots movements to policy shifts, real progress is within reach.

Actionable Recommendations:
Incorporate Gender Perspectives in Policy: Countries should consistently review and revise policies to ensure gender perspectives are at the forefront.
Promote Women in Leadership: Encourage companies to set targets for women in leadership roles, promoting change from within.

By embracing the spirit of the BPfA and engaging young women as equal stakeholders, the path toward true gender equality is not only envisioned but actively pursued.

Further Reading and Resources

For more information about global gender equality initiatives, visit UN Women and United Nations.

Speech on International women's Day|| Empowering women||

ByAliza Markham

Aliza Markham is a seasoned author and thought leader in the realms of new technologies and fintech. She holds a Master’s degree in Financial Technology from the University of Excelsior, where she deepened her understanding of the intersection between finance and technology. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Aliza began her career at JandD Innovations, where she contributed to groundbreaking projects that integrated blockchain technology into traditional financial systems. Her insightful writing combines rigorous research with practical applications, making complex concepts accessible to a wider audience. Aliza’s work has been featured in various esteemed publications, positioning her as a prominent voice in the evolving landscape of financial technology.