Council Chairperson's Message on the International Women’s Day #IWD2020 #EachForEqual

International Women's Day's Message for Fairgaze Magazine

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The International Women's Day is a call to foster an equal world, which is also an enabled world. Gender inequality cuts across all inequalities including social, economic and political.

Recognizing the criticality of gender issues, the United Nation's has recognized Gender Equality as a standalone goal (Goal 5) among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainable Development Goal 10 is a standalone goal to reduce inequalities in all its forms. The two goals together, reflect the intent and priority given by the UN to the achievement of gender equality in reducing inequalities in all forms. As per the UN's reports, legal discrimination, unfair social norms and attitudes, low level of political participation, decision making on sexual and reproductive issues are undermining the achievement of Goal 5.

It is the duty of all to ensure that all forms of discrimination and violence stop against women. Equal ownership, access and opportunity are critical to achieving the goal. This International Women's Day I commit myself to take all possible steps and contribute to achieving full and active participation of women and equal opportunities of leadership at all levels of decision making.

I take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all women for their dedication and commitment to transform our lives and our societies. Their ability to undertake all responsibilities under all circumstances needs recognition. Let no girl face denial of quality education, health, clean water, nutritious food, optimum hygiene, sanitation and opportunities.

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Ashok K Pandey is the Chairperson of the Council for Global Citizenship Education and the Director of Ahlcon Group of Schools.