Zagreb - Marija Lugarić, Chair of the Croatian Parliament's Gender Equality Committee, on Friday extended her congratulations to women ahead of International Women's Day, emphasising that the day is not only a celebration but also a reminder of the importance of equality and respect for women's rights.
"This day not only celebrates the achievements women have made throughout history but also reminds us of the challenges and obstacles women continue to face today, calling us to action in the defence of women's rights," Lugarić said.
She also stressed that "today, more than ever, we must persist in creating a world where women enjoy the same freedom, safety and opportunities as men. We want to build a society where women are equal, protected under the law and far removed from the margins where far too many women still find themselves."
Lugarić noted that gender equality is not, and must not become, a political catchphrase. "It is a matter of justice, equal opportunities and safety. A society can only succeed if all its members, both women and men, are able to realise their full potential."
International Women's Day, observed on 8 March, is dedicated to celebrating women's economic, political and social achievements, while also highlighting the ongoing need to achieve full equality in all areas of life, Lugarić said in her message, in which she also reflected on the history of the day's observance.
"Women's rights were not given as a gift – they were won through decades of struggle. Unfortunately, today, in the face of numerous patriarchal and regressive tendencies, the fight to preserve our rights must continue," Lugarić said.