Statement on the occasion of the International Women’s Day 2021

Gender equality is a core value of the European Union and a universally recognised human right, as well as an imperative to well-being, economic growth, prosperity, good governance, peace and security.

All people, in all their diversity, should be free to live their chosen life, thrive socially and economically, participate, and take a lead as equals.

Through Team Europe – an initiative that includes the EU and all its Member States present in Zambia - we wish to support women and girls to increasingly take part in shaping global transformation. We want to see new generations active in global and grassroots movements for a green and just transition, equal rights for all, democracy, and for peaceful and inclusive societies. We must take the opportunity of the post-COVID-19 recovery to address structural inequalities and build more inclusive and sustainable societies.

Around the world, women’s and girls’ rights, representation and resources are still systematically subordinated.

We stand with the government of Zambia in its commitment to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, and commend the steps taken through the implementation of the 7^th National Development Plan in areas such as promotion of girl child education, socio cultural resetting and social and economic empowerment initiatives. We look forward to seeing continued progress.

As long as the global gender inequality crisis persists, and women’s and girls’ rights remain under pressure, the EU and its Member States will continue to work hard to promote equality between men and women.

H.E. Anna-Maj Hultgard

Ambassador of Sweden to Zambia

On behalf of the EU Delegation and EU Member States Embassies in Zambia