This year is particularly significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s rights worldwide. At the same time, we face a critical moment in history, as efforts to advance gender equality and human rights are increasingly met with resistance.

As we navigate the complexities of today’s development challenges and backlash against gender equality and rights around the globe, it is critical that we recognize gender equality as a prerequisite and accelerator of sustainable development. It is also serves as a key driver in ensuring the rights and well-being of children without parental care.

Gender disparities heighten vulnerabilities among children, particularly girls, exposing them to abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.

Despite progress, many girls - especially those without parental care - continue to face systemic barriers and practices that compromise their rights. Without intervention, they are at higher risk of poverty, abuse, and inadequate care.

Sierra Leone: Combatting child marriage

Child marriage, for example, is a global issue exacerbated by gender inequality, poverty, social norms, and insecurity. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence and burden of child marriage, with Niger having the highest prevalence globally at a staggering 76%. The Third African Girls Summit, held in Niger a few years back, provided a platform for young people and decision-makers to discuss strategies to end harmful practices.

Salamatu, a youth participant from SOS Children’s Villages in Sierra Leone, was among the girls and young women who contributed to the Niamey Call to Action and the West African Girls’ Manifesto on ending harmful traditional practices. At the time, she shared the heartbreaking story of her friend who lost her life in childbirth after being forced into child marriage.

Salamatu was inspired by her friend’s story to advocate for action. “We need more champions among young people,” she said at the summitt.  “We are the largest part of the population, we are the future, we master online communication, and so we must mobilize and act because we can break this cycle.”

Ethiopia: Zala’s journey to empowerment

In Ethiopia, where child marriage remains prevalent, Zala’s story exemplifies resilience and empowerment. Forced into marriage at 12, Zala endured pain and stigma before escaping with her mother’s help.

Despite suffering a miscarriage and facing community rejection, she refused to let societal pressures define her future. With support from SOS Children’s Villages and the Joining Forces initiative, Zala returned to school, overcoming her fears and becoming an advocate against child marriage.

“I want other girls to know that in order to live a happy and self-determined life, it is important to be educated. Even if you dropped out of school, it is never to late to return and catch up on your dreams,” she said.

Lebanon: Strength through comedy

Gender-based violence remains one of the most pervasive barriers to gender equality and is among the factors leading to family breakdown. Lebanon ranks 113 out of 144 in the Gender Gap Index, where 37% of women and girls are subject to physical violence and 49% are exposed to non-physical violence.

Amal, an 18-year-old high school senior, uses comedy to connect with others and inspire resilience. Passionate about psychology and theatre, she believes humor can break down barriers and create spaces for real conversations. She hopes to blend her love for comedy and mental health to help others find strength in themselves.

On this International Women’s Day, SOS Children’s Villages stands in solidarity with all those working toward gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, like Salamatu, Zala, and Amal.

• We urge stakeholders to adopt inclusive, survivor-centered approaches to uphold the rights of women and girls, challenging all forms of violence, discrimination, and exploitation.
• As gender equality is integral to the mission of SOS Children’s Villages to protect children without parental care, we call on stakeholders to dismantle systemic discrimination and elevate the voices of marginalized girls and women.
• We call for equitable access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities, particularly for girls who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care.

Together, let us build a world where every girl has the opportunity to thrive.

Names of young people changed to protect privacy