Image Credit: PDOIS
Suwaibou Touray, Secretary General of People’s Democratic Organisation (PDOIS) for Independence and Socialism, has said that any society that affords equal contribution of its women in decision-making has created a conducive atmosphere for not only sustainable economic growth but also sustained peace, and security.
Touray joined the United Nation’s call to celebrate the 2026 International Women’s Day and to advocate for the rights of women and girls worldwide.
Contribution to the commemoration of the day, he explained the origin of the day, stating that this Day earned its earlier name from the ‘Women’s Day’ on February 28 1909 which was organised by the Socialist Party of America in New York City and was later approved at the 1910 International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark which culminated into a demonstration and commemoration across Europe.
However, he said, in 1922, the day was promoted by the UN and was recognised in 1977 to be observed in connection with a particular issue, campaign, or theme in women’s right.
For this year, he said the International Women’s Day 2026, has the theme “Give to Gain” underscoring the principle that meaningful progress on gender equality requires deliberate contributions from governments, institutions and individuals.
“When we invest in women’s safety, rights and leadership, we strengthen societies as a whole,” he quoted the Executive Director of UN Women, Sima Babous as stressing.
Touray added that it is important that we demand rights and justice for everyone including women and girls, noting that it is a fundamental requirement for building a free, equal, and progressive society.
He said no society can be developed and sustained without the equal participation of men and women and further asserted that any society that affords equal contribution of its women in decision-making has created a conducive atmosphere for not only sustainable economic growth but also sustained peace, and security.
The parliamentarianrian for Wuli West advocated that the Gambia should continue to increase opportunities for women and girls in education, increase participation in elections, increase protection in work places and the right to make personal decisions especially regarding their bodies.
He added that right to employment and equal pay for women and all discriminatory practices should be prohibited by law and ensure that women live freely from violence, discrimination and exclusion as well as attain physical and mental health at home and the work place.
