Belarus issues statement on International Women’s Day at OSCE Permanent Council meeting in Vienna

Photo courtesy of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

MINSK, 5 March (BelTA) – The Belarusian delegation issued a statement on the occasion of International Women’s Day at a meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna on 5 March, BelTA learned from the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“8 March is celebrated worldwide as International Women’s Day. This holiday is historically associated with women’s struggle for equal rights and opportunities. Over time, it has become a symbol of respect for women, recognition of their contribution to the development of society, and a reminder of the importance of ensuring equality and justice,” the Belarusian delegation noted. “In Belarus, women play a vital role in all spheres of public life. They not only preserve and strengthen family values but also make significant contributions to the development of the economy, science, education, healthcare, culture, and sports. Many Belarusian women have become role models of professionalism, civic responsibility, and dedication.”

Belarus’ state policy on gender equality is based on strict compliance with international commitments, including the provisions of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and its Optional Protocol.

“The Belarusian government is implementing national action plans to ensure gender equality, including taking into account the recommendations of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. The current national action plan aims to expand opportunities for women and strengthen their role in the country’s public and economic life,” the statement reads.

During the OSCE Permanent Council meeting, it was highlighted that Belarus ranks 27th out of 172 countries on the Gender Inequality Index, according to the 2025 Human Development Report. This ranking reflects the government’s consistent efforts to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women and men.

“A key milestone in this effort was introducing amendments to the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus following the 2022 referendum. The updated text now constitutionally enshrines the protection of marriage as a union between a woman and a man, as well as the safeguarding of the family, motherhood, fatherhood, and childhood. It also guarantees equal rights and opportunities for women and men in education, work, and public life,” the Belarusian delegation stated. “This year in Belarus is marked by special attention to women, their role in society, the family, and the economy. The president of the Republic of Belarus has declared 2026 the Year of the Belarusian Woman. This decision reflects the state’s commitment to supporting women’s initiatives, strengthening the institution of the family, and creating conditions for women’s professional and social self-fulfillment. Importantly, this is not just a symbolic step, but a consistent effort to promote women’s empowerment in all spheres of life.”

“Sustainable societal development is impossible without the full participation of women in all spheres of life. Expanding opportunities for women is not only a matter of justice but also a crucial condition for progress and prosperity of our countries,” the Belarusian delegation stated.

“We sincerely congratulate all women on International Women’s Day and wish them good health, prosperity, inspiration, and new achievements. May women’s contribution to the development of society and the strengthening of peace always receive the recognition and support they deserve,” the Belarusian diplomats noted.