On International Women’s Day, OSCE Secretary General urges increased efforts to promote gender equality and to engage women in peace processes

VIENNA, 8 March 2016 - On the occasion of International Women’s Day, OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier called on all OSCE participating States to reaffirm their dedication and to increase their efforts toward achieving gender equality and the equal participation of women in conflict prevention and peace processes.

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to highlight the progress made in empowering women and working toward full gender equality, said Ambassador Zannier, but also an important moment to reflect on areas where there is slow or no progress in the advancement of gender equality.

“Urgent action is needed to enhance the role of women in conflict resolution, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation,” Zannier emphasized. “The meaningful participation of women in these processes greatly increases the likelihood of achieving inclusive and sustainable peace.”

The Secretary General pointed out that violence against women remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the OSCE area. “Sexual violence, domestic violence and other types of gender-based violence are unfortunately a reality for women in every country, and the level of violence often rises in conflict and post-conflict situations.” He also highlighted the situation of refugee and migrant women across the OSCE region and their vulnerability to violence.

“On this day when we honour women and recognize their critical contributions to our societies,” said Zannier. “I urge all states to take into account not only women’s challenges and protection needs, but also their agency and potential.”