UNFPA’s representative emphasizes strong role of Egyptian women throughout history

CAIRO – 17 March 2022: Frederica Meyer, representative of the United Nations Population Fund in Egypt, emphasized the strong role of Egyptian women throughout history.

"The 16th of March is an important date in the history of Egyptian women. On the same date in 1923, Hoda Shaarawy formed the first Egyptian Federation for Women, fighting for their rights in the social and political spheres, over the years has remained an important history, as the first group of women attended Cairo University, as well as being the day when women are given the right to vote, it has now become a day of national celebration, and an opportunity to show gratitude to the hard work of Egyptian women and their dedication,” said Meyer.

This came during the celebration organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation in Cairo, and the Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo, to celebrate Egyptian Women’s Day, coinciding with the global celebrations of International Women’s Day, under the title “Gender Equality for a Sustainable Tomorrow.”

The Italian Ambassador to Egypt Michele Quaroni, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund in Egypt Frederica Meyer, Assistant Representative of the United Nations Population Fund Germaine Haddad, and Hala Abu Khatwa, the UNICEF Information Center Officer.

In her speech, the UN official added “when we talk about sustainability, we have to look at the role of society, families, parents and teachers. We look at dialogue, prevention and awareness, which is the core of UNFPA's mandate and vision.”

She added, UNFPA and its partners, such as the National Council for Women and the Ministry of Youth and Sports to name a few, are committed to combating gender inequality and violence against women in all its forms.

Since 2017, interactive community theatre, storytelling, drama, football, mural painting, street carnivals and music have been published to interact with local villages to reflect on the challenges facing women, and to delve into the root causes of gender-based discrimination and violence against women and girls.

“It has been proven to be highly effective,” she commented.

Through the arts, theater and drama, she continued saying that we create a dialogue with communities, and open up discussion about possibilities and solutions to make the lives of women and girls safer, healthier and more prosperous.

“Today's event is completely unique and allows us to shed light on the intersection between culture and art, women's and girls' empowerment and community dialogue.”

She ensured that the improvement is an affirmation that a change in perceptions is taking place.