The World Council of Churches Gender Justice Reference Group, in a statement for International Women’s Day on 8 March, expressed solidarity with women and girls across the world.

“We affirm that the pursuit of justice and equality for women is not just a matter of human rights but a moral and spiritual imperative—advancing gender equality as a cornerstone of human dignity,” reads the statement. “The voices we have heard and gathered call us to urgent action.”

The statement urges that women’s dignity, rights, and honor must be upheld every day. 

“We must strengthen laws and policies that protect women from violence, discrimination, and systemic inequality—ensuring their access to employment, education, and healthcare,” reads the message. “We call for fair wages, equal representation in leadership, and an end to barriers that keep young, migrant, and Indigenous women on the margins.”

The statement notes that true progress means not just survival but the freedom and opportunity to thrive.

“Across the world, gender-based discrimination and violence persist,” reads the text. “In many parts of the world, simply being born a woman increases the risk of violence and inequality.”

In more developed areas, the statement notes, wage gaps and a lack of parental support structures hinder women’s advancement. 

“We cannot remain silent in the face of these injustices,” reads the text. “Education is a powerful tool for transformation.”

The statement notes that, to educate women is to educate society. “We must protect and defend women’s rights to education, health, and safety, recognizing that their empowerment is essential for national and economic growth,” reads the text. ”Churches and faith communities must educate clergy and leaders to recognize and challenge domestic violence, ensuring they do not perpetuate harm,” reads the statement. “Theological language must also reflect dignity and respect, shaping a just Christian worldview.”

The statement urges a future where young women and girls are empowered to lead and act as catalysts for lasting change. “Economic justice, including gender-sensitive taxation and fair labor policies, is essential to sustainable progress,” reads the text. “Ending the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls is a global imperative that requires immediate attention.”

The statement also urges empowering the next generation.

“Today, we do not simply commemorate but commit,” reads the text. “Let us continue working together toward a world where women and girls are no longer socialized to accept harmful gender roles.”

The message expresses a commitment to protecting, defending, and uplifting women in every aspect of life. “We call upon governments, churches, and communities to act boldly in creating a world where women’s rights are fully realized and where gender justice is not just an aspiration but a reality,” concludes the statement.