President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has issued a Proclamation declaring Tuesday, March 8, 2016 as International Women’s Day to be observed throughout Liberia as a Working Holiday.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, the women of Liberia will join their counterparts around the world to celebrate the International Women’s Day 2016, under the Global Theme: “Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step it up for Gender Equality” and National Theme: “Pledge for Parity by 2030: Step it up for Gender Equality.”

The significance of the day is in recognition of the role women play in social, political and economic spheres as well as to reflect on the challenges and opportunities that will make the world a better place for them.

The Proclamation, therefore, requests the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Government Agencies, Civil Society Organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) concerned to execute appropriate programs befitting the occasion.

The Government of the Republic of Liberia, cognizant of its obligation to ensure equal status for men and women in society without discrimination, ratified the Convention on “The Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women”, reflecting its commitment to gender equality and equity through its national reconstruction and development program.

The observance of the Day is in consonance with the General Assembly adopted Resolution 32/142 in 1977 proclaiming March 8^th of each year as International Women’s Day to be observed by Member States in accordance with their historical and national traditions.