On 8 March, International Women’s Day, we are celebrating women’s achievement from all walks of life. My appreciation goes to the remarkable, strong Somali women who have made an extraordinary impact in their communities and also in civilian maritime law enforcement.
At the same time, we acknowledge that that there is still a lot to do, also in the maritime security sector before we can enjoy the abundant fruits of full gender equality, equal opportunities for all men and women. Maritime security is a key ingredient for economic prosperity in Somalia, and Somali women can make enormous contributions to both security and to the economy. Empowering women at all levels is essential to improve the quality of life for women, men, girls and boys, their communities and society as a whole.
While congratulating brave and professional Somali women, I also want to thank all the international women who have joined EUCAP Somalia to work, side by side with men, for the better future of women, men, boys and girls in this country. Gender equality is one of the core values of the EU, and we know that gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive. That is why I urge all of us, men and women, to make this International Women’s Day OUR day.
Maria-Cristina Stepanescu
EUCAP Somalia Head of Mission
#WomensDay #EU4Women
