This March 8, the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States joins the rest of the world in celebrating the International Women’s Day. On this occasion on behalf of the organisation, the Secretary-General H.E. Mr Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti is pleased to convey this special message to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women around the world. He recognizes the vital role that women play in shaping our societies, development and resilience. Their unique perspectives and leadership are crucial in building a more just and sustainable future.

The constitutive act of the OACPS – the revised Georgetown Agreement and the 2020-2025 Strategic Plan give a prominent place to women in achieving the objectives of the organization. Their involvement in the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is crucial. This commitment is reflected in many of the Members of the OACPS through their legislation that calls for gender parity as well as gender sensitive policies in their development agenda.

The Secretary-General welcomes the choice of this year’s theme, ” “Invest in women: Accelerate Progress” which underscores the urgent need to empower women to be able to fast-track the development agenda for our countries. The OACPS remains firmly committed to promoting women’s empowerment, supporting women-led initiatives, in the Members of the OACPS.

Secretary Chikoti joins the United Nations in calling on all international partners to invest in women in all areas in order to create a more equitable prosperous future for women and girls.