Calls for action for all women and girls: Rights, equality, empowerment

Women are the torchbearers for shaping sustainable economic models and driving financial inclusion.

- GAURIKA CHUGH, MOUMITA MANDAL & SUKANYA DAS

Their participation in financial systems not only enhances their decision-making powers but also strengthens national economies. This resonates with this year's International Women's Day which focuses on empowering women, especially young women and adolescent girls under the broader theme of calls for action "For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality and Empowerment". It's a significant year as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The declaration addresses how there can be greater access for women over economic structures as they are mostly underrepresented in economic decision-making, including the formulations of economic policies. The declaration highlights that women's empowerment and sustainable development of a country would be possible when there is equal participation of women in the economic decision-making process and they get recognition for their contribution to the economic development of a country.

Looking at the scenario in India, the Constitution of India promotes the economic empowerment of women. Articles 14 and 15, which are Fundamental Rights, ensure the right to equality, equal opportunities, and non-discrimination, and Articles 39(a), 39(d), and 42, which are part of Directive Principles of State Policy, direct the State to make law and policy to adequate means of livelihood, ensure equal pay for equal work and, just and humane conditions of work, and maternity relief.