President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih called on Monday to strengthen efforts to create an inclusive environment where women have equitable opportunities as policymakers and in leadership roles, both in the public and private sectors. He made these remarks while speaking at the official function to mark International Women's Day (IWD 2023).
The official ceremony to mark IWD 2023 was held at the Umar Zahir Office Building in Hulhumalé. President Solih was joined at the function by First Lady Fazna Ahmed, Vice President Faisal Naseem, and senior officials of government offices and institutions.
Speaking at the event, President Solih highlighted the administration's Gender Equality Action Plan, which was unveiled in 2022. The plan seeks to increase the participation of girls and women in all sectors, disrupt the systematic assignment of roles influenced by gender stereotypes, and ensure equal consideration to protect the interests of men and women in the decision-making process.
The President also highlighted the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company's (MTCC) commendable achievements in promoting and empowering women's rights. He added that guidelines are in place in all government offices and institutions that reflect the importance of ensuring equity and equality, and he called on them to take steps immediately to ensure the implementation of those policies.
The theme for IWD 2023 is "DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality." Speaking on this note, President Solih stated that the theme aims to celebrate the achievements of girls and women in promoting innovative technology and digital education. He added that the administration's Strategic Action Plan (SAP) focuses on economic diversification, information and communication technologies (ICT), and sub-sectors, including gender equality.
The President also spoke about the administration's efforts to empower women and highlighted its efforts through the Maldives Enhancing Employability and Resilience of Youth (MEERY) project. He added that the administration introduced equal pay for men and women in sports and accommodated children under the age of two and a guardian to accompany athletes during training camps abroad.
The administration is also taking steps to encourage working mothers and end barriers to their employment. President Solih added that child-friendly spaces are being dedicated in government offices and institutions, while some agencies have introduced flexible hours for working mothers.
In conclusion, the President urged for a whole-of-society approach to promoting and protecting women's rights and empowering them to take on leadership roles in all sectors. At the function, President Solih presented the Rehendhi Award 2023 to the winners, and the First Lady presented the winners with brooches.
Vice President Faisal Naseem launched the "Madhadhugaaru" mobile phone application at the function. The pilot episode of the "Amaze" video series was also screened at the function.
