For International Women’s Day (IWD) today, let us all give equity a huge embrace. As we observe IWD today, it’s important to remember that the goal of our celebration this year is to advance the ideals of gender equality by promoting Women, Peace and Security.

FOSDA celebrates all women today. We celebrate the gallant women of all generations who are working to promote peace and security in our communities. We call for all to embrace equity, especially in the security sector and in Peace building processes.

This is in accordance with our work on Women, Peace and Security hinged on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325)

International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrated every year on 8 March is observed to raise awareness on the crucial responsibilities that governments, policymakers, civil society organizations (CSOs) and the public play in promoting, protecting and celebrating women.

FOSDA believes that peace and security cannot be achieved in an unequal world and society. Therefore, there is a need to promote gender equity in all spaces in order to achieve peace and security.

What does this mean?

Equity means creating an inclusive world. Including women and other marginalized groups in peace processes / initiatives as well as in conflict resolution.

According to UN women, Women’s participation increases the probability of a peace agreement lasting at least two years by 20 percent, and by 35 percent the probability of a peace agreement lasting 15 years.

FOSDA seeks a future where Women, Peace and Security is promoted and sustained. We also seek a future where:

• Women and girls participate in advancing peace and security through innovation that benefits humanity
• Women & girls are safe and protected from gender-based violence
• Everyone is involved in improving and uncovering creative solutions to strengthen women’s peace initiatives and conflict resolution processes.

Everyone everywhere can play a part to embrace equity, to embrace diversity, to embrace inclusion and to promote Peace and Security.

We can work together to bring about positive change. We can all work together to create a more equal society.

Join FOSDA and all IWD partners around the world to #EmbraceEquity.  Women need to lead and participate in Peace and Security Processes.

Let us celebrate International Women’s Day together! Let us all ‘Embrace equity to promote women, peace and security’!