Key Highlights
- The UK reaffirms that women’s full participation is crucial for the OSCE region’s security and stability.
- Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine exacerbates violence against women and girls.
- This year’s International Women’s Day theme emphasizes collective action on gender equality.
- The UK launches ‘All In’ initiative to end violence against women and girls globally.
UK’s OSCE Statement for International Women’s Day 2026
You might think this is new, but…
UK Ambassador Holland marks International Women’s Day 2026 by reiterating that women’s full, equal, and safe participation in the OSCE region is not just a nicety—it’s essential for security, prosperity, and stability. This isn’t a recent revelation; it’s been a cornerstone of international policy for decades. Yet, progress remains slow.
The Global Trajectory
And yet, the global trajectory is deeply concerning. Rights are eroding, women human rights defenders face increasing intimidation, and violence against women continues to rise. These challenges demand sustained, collective action.
You might think this is just about numbers, but it’s not. It’s about dignity, safety, and humanity.
Russia’s Aggression
So, how does Russia fit into all of this? Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine has inflicted profound harm on women and girls. Evidence of conflict-related sexual violence by Russian forces is extensively documented. Women and girls face heightened risks in areas affected by the conflict.
The Organized Threat
CRSV (Conflict-Related Sexual Violence) is not incidental; it’s organized, deliberate, and used to break societal cohesion and erode the will to fight and recover. This isn’t a side effect—it’s a weapon. Russia’s aggression is an assault on Ukraine’s sovereignty, but also on the safety, dignity, and rights of women and girls.
The ‘All In’ Initiative
And that brings us to the UK’s latest initiative: ‘All In’. Launched last December by the Foreign Secretary, this aims to galvanize new commitments to end violence against women and girls globally. This isn’t a one-off—it’s part of the UK’s long-standing investment in evidence-based prevention.
Investing in Women’s Rights
The ‘All In’ campaign complements other efforts, like ‘What Works to Prevent Violence’, which has demonstrated that violence can be reduced by up to half in participating communities. The UK remains committed to advancing this agenda and supporting accountability through initiatives like the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict.
A Call to Action
International Women’s Day is not just a commemoration; it’s a call to action—to defend the gains already made, confront the challenges ahead, and accelerate efforts. Every woman and girl should live free from violence, fear, and discrimination. Their full participation is indispensable to our shared security.
Thank you.
