This year’s campaign, EachForEqual, draws attention to the difference individuals can make. "An equal world is an enabled world" - and every one of us can do our bit to bring about gender equality. That’s the core message of #EachForEqual, the campaign at the centre of this year’s International Women’s Day marked annually on March 8. It seeks to draw attention to the idea that gender inequality isn’t a women’s issue, but an economic one – as gender equality is essential for economies and communities to thrive. Boardrooms, government departments and media coverage are just some of the key areas of focus highlighted by the campaign. And by celebrating women’s achievement, raising awareness of bias and calling out inequality, the campaign says, we can all help to bring about change.

At RCMRD, we marked the day on March 7, 2020 with a staff meeting after which staff including the Director General, dsiplayed cards in support of the day's theme: Each For Equal. 

The United Nations first celebrated International Women’s Day during International Women’s Year in 1975. By 1977, the UN and its member states proclaimed 8 March would be an official day for women’s rights and world peace. It’s now observed all over the world. The #EachForEqual campaign has become a symbol of the movement, which extends far beyond 8 March, with activities running all year long. The idea is to reinforce and galvanize collective action, holding events and talks that urge us all to share responsibility and play our part. The year 2020 is an important one for gender equality. It is the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the most advanced blueprint for achieving gender equality in the world. It also marks 10 years since the establishment of UN Women, and the 20th anniversary of the UN Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security.

Last year, the theme was #BalanceForBetter, which aimed to encourage gender balance in boardrooms, in the media and in wealth as a way for economies to thrive. It echoed the aims of the RCMRD and SERVIR Eastern and Southern Africa Gender Integration strategy as well as SERVIR Global's strategy.