The Call for Women's Rights Echoes on International Women's Day 2025

The African Union of Broadcasting (AUB) proudly joins the global community in commemorating International Women's Day 2025, under the powerful theme "Her Rights, Our Future, Right Now." This theme underscores the undeniable truth that progress on women's rights and gender equality is not just a matter of justice, but a cornerstone for building a more prosperous and peaceful future for all.

Decades of tireless advocacy by feminist movements and women's rights activists have yielded significant strides, transforming societies worldwide. However, these hard-won gains are under threat. We are witnessing a disturbing rise in pushback against women's rights, jeopardizing the advancements that have made our world fairer and more inclusive.

A staggering report from the United Nations reveals the devastating extent of femicide globally. In 2023 alone, over 50,000 women and girls were tragically killed by intimate partners or family members – a chilling average of 140 lives lost every single day.

This global crisis is particularly acute in Africa, where 21,700 femicides were reported in 2023, accounting for the highest number of cases worldwide. The continent also bears the grim distinction of having the highest femicide rate, with 2.9 victims per 100,000 inhabitants. This figure starkly overshadows the rates in other regions, highlighting the urgent need for action to address this deeply concerning issue in Africa.

Gender-based violence, a pervasive issue, continues to plague our communities and has alarmingly spread to online spaces. This violence not only infringes upon women's and girls' fundamental right to live free from harm, but also undermines their physical and mental well-being, limiting their full participation in society. Addressing and preventing this violence is crucial for the health and prosperity of our communities.

Despite these challenges, women and girls across the globe remain at the forefront of the fight for gender equality. They are leading the charge with innovative and practical solutions, particularly in the digital realm, where they are working to create safer and more inclusive online environments.

Through its member organizations, AUB recognizes that upholding women's rights is not merely a moral imperative, but a strategic investment in our collective future. AUB stands in solidarity with UN Human Rights and its partners in their efforts to strengthen legal frameworks, improve governance systems, and provide crucial support to stakeholders working to respect women's rights.

On this International Women's Day, and every day, let us reaffirm our commitment to "Her Rights, Our Future, Right Now. »