March 9, 2025, marks International Women’s Day, an event celebrated globally to recognize the progress and challenges faced by women. This year's theme, ‘Accelerate Action: Rights, Equality and Empowerment for All Women and Girls’, serves as a reminder of the longstanding struggles and achievements for women's rights worldwide.
Historically, the Netherlands granted women the right to vote only in 1919, with political representation following years later, as women were not included in the cabinets until 1956. It wasn't until 1957 when legal frameworks began to recognize women as equal citizens rather than classifying them alongside individuals with learning disabilities, which had severe repercussions on their ability to manage finances and handle legal matters independently.
Globally, the fight for parity continues. Currently, only 28 women serve as Heads of State or Government across 196 countries. According to data from UN Women, at the current pace of change, achieving equality within the highest echelons of power might take another 130 years. This highlights the urgent need for not just women, but men to engage actively and support the quest for gender equity.
Supporting this notion, the Dutch Embassy has coordinated several initiatives leading up to this day's celebration. A notable event was the relaunch of the Women’s Network of London, which welcomed 50 female professionals—representatives from both Dutch and British factions—aimed at strengthening collaborations for women's rights.
At the heart of this year's initiatives was the special documentary screening held on March 2, 2025. Titled ‘Nice Ladies’, it captures the experiences of Ukrainian women grappling with the impacts of war on their lives. Directed by Mariia Ponomarova, the film follows the lives of cheerleaders facing the heartbreaking choice of staying or leaving their war-affected country. Mariia shared, “The stories of women influenced by conflict are pivotal for stronger communities.”
The documentary portrays the resilience of women as they navigate the chaos of war, keeping contact with one another to maintain their sanity amid loss and uncertainty. It serves as both a moving tribute to individual experiences and a stark reminder of the broader consequences of conflict on women's roles and identities.
Looking forward, the upcoming panel discussion ‘Strong Women – Art Exhibition and Panel Discussion’, slated for March 26, 2025, at the Dutch Centre, promises to be another significant event. The exhibition will feature the work of Dutch artist Tabitha Boekweit, who aims to explore themes of cultural history through her projects. Participants like Annemijn van den Broek, Deputy Head of Mission, will contribute their insights on the challenges facing women today, with visual storytelling playing a key role.
Across the globe, as the conversation about women's rights continues, it’s imperative to engage with both men and women to advocate for equality. Joanna Roper, the British Ambassador to the Netherlands, stated, “International Women’s Day is not only about celebrating women but also engaging men to join the fight for equality.” This collaborative engagement can help break down persistent barriers and create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
International Women’s Day is not just about acknowledgment; it’s about committing to action. The planned events reflect the combined efforts of various stakeholders, with the overarching goal of building a world where rights and opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of gender. Such actions will not only advance the rights of women and girls but will inevitably lead to stronger, more resilient communities.