International Day of Rural Women (15 Oct)
The International Day of Rural Women is a United Nations (UN) designated global observance day celebrated annually on 15 October to recognize the crucial role that rural women play in promoting agricultural development and food security. It also aims to highlight the challenges faced by rural women worldwide and the need for gender equality in rural areas.
Initially proposed by the Committee on the Status of Women, the UN General Assembly formally designated 15 October as the International Day of Rural Women in its resolution 62/136, adopted on 18 December 2007. The day was first observed in 2008 under the theme “Gender equality and food security: Rural women feed the world.”
Each year, the International Day of Rural Women focuses on a different theme related to the challenges and achievements of rural women. Past themes have included:
- Investing in rural women to end hunger and poverty (2018)
- Rural women and innovation: Building a sustainable future for all (2019)
- Realizing Opportunities for Rural Women: The Role of Digital and Financial Inclusion (2020)
- Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All (2021)
- Rural Women: Key Actresses in Food Systems’ Transformation for Improved Food Security, Nutrition, and Sustainable Agriculture (2022)
The International Day of Rural Women is seen as an important opportunity to raise awareness of the unique contributions of rural women to sustainable development and to advocate for their rights and empowerment. Various events are organized around the world to mark this day, including conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and awareness campaigns.
The UN encourages governments, international organizations, civil society groups, and individuals to observe the International Day of Rural Women as a way to show their support for rural women’s empowerment and to promote gender equality in rural areas.
Celebrating International Day of Rural Women
The International Day of Rural Women is commemorated globally with a variety of events and activities that aim to recognize and celebrate the critical role of rural women in societies worldwide. Here’s how the day is celebrated around the world:
• Educational Events and Workshops: Various organizations host educational workshops, seminars, and conferences to raise awareness about the challenges faced by rural women and promote their rights and opportunities.
• Public Forums and Discussions: Community gatherings, panel discussions, and public forums are held to engage in dialogues about issues affecting rural women, their contributions to society, and strategies for their empowerment.
• Media Campaigns: Campaigns are launched through various media platforms to spread awareness about the importance of recognizing and supporting rural women. These campaigns often include stories, interviews, and features highlighting the achievements and struggles of these women.
• Artistic Expressions: Creative initiatives such as art exhibitions, poetry readings, and film screenings are organized to showcase the talents and perspectives of rural women.
• Policy Advocacy and Networking: The day is utilized to advocate for policies and programs that support rural women’s empowerment, such as access to land, education, healthcare, and financial services. Networking events facilitate connections between policymakers, organizations, and women’s groups to foster collaboration and advocacy efforts.
• Skill-Building and Training Programs: Workshops and training programs are conducted to equip rural women with practical skills and knowledge to enhance their livelihoods and participate more effectively in decision-making processes.
• Recognition and Awards: Awards ceremonies or recognition events are held to honor rural women who have made significant contributions to their communities or demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges.
• Local Celebrations: In rural communities, local celebrations may include traditional ceremonies, cultural performances, and community gatherings that showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of rural women.
• Social Media Campaigns: Online campaigns and hashtags are utilized to engage a global audience, raise awareness about rural women’s issues, and encourage individuals to take action in support of their rights and opportunities.
