President Ali: Concrete steps taken to protect, empower women

The Government of Guyana remains committed to the protection of women and girls, describing violence against them as a scourge in society and a denial of their safety, dignity, and well-being.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, in his International Women’s Day message 2025, underscored his government’s commitment to addressing these issues.

“The Government of Guyana has adopted a no-nonsense approach, implementing stringent measures to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure justice for survivors. Through initiatives such as the Spotlight Initiative and a strengthened legal framework, we are providing greater support and protection for abused women and girls, offering them access to shelters, counselling, and resources to rebuild their lives. We are committed to eradicating gender-based violence as we strive to create a society where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence.”

In addition, the government is taking concrete steps towards the economic empowerment and stability of women, providing them with the necessary resources to ensure their continued impact on the national development of the country.

“We are equipping women with the resources, skills, and support they need to thrive as entrepreneurs and leaders, fostering innovation and economic independence.”

The President said the part-time jobs programme has already provided thousands of women with opportunities to earn income, support their households, and achieve financial stability.

The Women in Agriculture Initiative is also creating pathways for women to access greater economic opportunities in the agricultural sector, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s food security and economic growth.

The Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) further empowers women by leveraging education as a tool for unlocking greater opportunities, with women constituting the majority of its cohorts.

These efforts, the President continued, are complemented by the government’s policy of providing house lots to women-headed households, promoting home ownership and long-term financial security.

Together, these initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to advancing women’s economic empowerment and ensuring their active participation in Guyana’s development.

The President further expressed his government’s commitment to ensuring greater participation of women in decision-making by creating more opportunities and amplifying their voices in political and leadership roles.

The government has actively supported initiatives to increase women’s representation in governance, given their critical contributions in shaping policies and driving progress.

Recognising the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the President reiterated his government’s endorsement of the landmark policy framework under which his government pursues action towards the advancement of women’s rights, gender equality, and female empowerment.

“The ongoing efforts to empower women, reduce disparities, and create opportunities for leadership will remain a priority in the near and foreseeable future. Together, we will continue to build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Guyana where every woman can thrive and realise her full potential,” he said, concluding:

“On this International Women’s Day 2025, on behalf of the Government of Guyana, I extend heartfelt best wishes to all the women of Guyana and its diaspora. Your resilience, strength, and contributions to national development continue to inspire us all.”