The European YWCA – Young Women Leaders Network: International Women’s Day Statement

8 MARCH 2017 MARKS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY; “WOMEN IN THE CHANGING WORLD OF WORK: PLANET 50-50 BY 2030”. ON THIS DAY THE EUROPEAN YWCA PROUDLY LAUNCHES THE YOUNG WOMEN LEADERS NETWORK. WE BELIEVE THAT EMPOWERED AND CONNECTED YOUNG WOMEN AND GIRLS CAN LEAD CHANGE.

The network was established as an outcome of the study session ‘Digital advocacy for the Agenda 2030’, organised by the European YWCA in co-operation with the Youth Department of the Council of Europe.

The network represents 30 young women and girls from 20 countries worldwide. It’s daily operations are carried out by a core-team of professionals in the field of human rights, women’s rights & SRHR. This formation of change agents aims to inspire other young women and girls by 4 calls that we would like to share with the world. The Young Women Leaders Network calls out for:

1) Young Women Leading Change
Ensure that young women and girls speak for and represent themselves in all discussions and decision-making processes by investing in all women’s equitable representation for voice and agency.

2) Economic empowerment of young women and girls, a brighter future for all

Invest in young women´s economic empowerment by closing gender gaps and traps, for smart economic growth that is sustainable and good for all.

3) A healthy life for full participation

Recognise the links between sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) to the economic empowerment of all young women and girls. For comprehensive SRHR services towards a positive life of quality information and choice, free from violence and gender-based discrimination.

4) Recognise, reduce and redistribute for gender equality

Remove all legal restrictions to women´s economic opportunities. Close the gender gaps in labour outcomes – respect, protect and recognise all women´s unpaid responsibilities and work.

The European YWCA Young Leaders Network wishes you all a Happy International Women’s Day with more time for business, education, leisure, political participation and self-care. Let’s all #beboldforchange.

More info:
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https://www.instagram.com/european_ywca/