Gender equality is a priority for the French government. Internationally, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs delivers on this commitment through its ambitious and proactive feminist diplomacy. The 8th of March, International Women’s Day, is an opportunity to showcase this commitment and to step up France’s work to uphold women’s rights.
Speech by Stéphane Séjourné, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the awarding of the Simon Veil Prize of the French Republic for gender equality
To mark the occasion, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs has announced a series of new initiatives for 2024-2025.
Round table°1 “Sexual violence in times of conflict”, with Stéphane Séjourné, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs in attendance
Round table 2: “Countering anti-rights movements”
France’s commitment can be seen in all areas: protecting and promoting rights, reducing inequalities, participating in decision-making, ensuring peace and security, addressing climate change issues and sustainable development, and tackling cultural and economic challenges.
Humanitarian crises, wars, climate change, poverty, discrimination, sexual and gender-based violence, denial of rights – women and girls are the primary victims of these realities.
France is taking resolute action through its feminist diplomacy.
Discover France’s commitments in the area of gender equality.
The Simone Veil Prize of the French Republic for gender equality is awarded to a person or group of any nationality working to promote gender equality and improve the status of women and girls around the world. Created at the instigation of President Macron in 2019, it is awarded every year on 8 March, International Women’s Day.
Follow the Simone Veil Prize award ceremony
Who has been awarded the Simone Veil Prize in the past?
Launched by the President of the French Republic for Human Rights Day on 10 December 2021, each year the Marianne Initiative for human rights defenders supports the work of women and men working to further human rights all over the world. On this 8th of March, France wishes to honour them.
Discover the Marianne Initiative Prize winners
March 2024