March 8th is a day that everyone is supposed to celebrate. This year, International Women’s Day marked its 100th anniversary. While such a number needs to be celebrated, the ugly truth about women and their rights is hiding in the shadows.
Worldwide, women are paid less than men- in most countries earning on average 60 - 75% of men’s wages.
Bringing women’s wages into line with men’s would add $28 trillion to global GDP.
In a study of 173 countries, 155 have at least one legal difference restricting women’s economic opportunities. Of those, 100 have laws that restrict the types of jobs that women can do, and in 18, husbands can prevent their wives from accepting jobs.
We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic. Reshape the conversation. To make sure women's voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.
Both men and women should have equal representation and chances to become a CEO, a director, a member of the parliament or just a leader. Everyone has his or her own plans for the future. We all want them to be fulfilled. However, because of gender inequality and the wage gap, one might not be able to succeed.
March 8th is not a day for women only, it is a day for all of humanity. A long way is ahead for ensuring gender equality for both men and women living on this planet. But, if we all work together, feminism will stay in history books because inequality will no longer exist.
“How can we effect change in the world when only half of it is invited or feel welcome to participate in the conversation?” - Emma Watson
Therefore, think of it this way: your gender doesn’t define who you are, only your words and actions do.