Nusrat Ghani, MP for Wealden, celebrates International Women's Day 2024.
International Women's Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. Officially recognised by the United Nations in 1977, it is a day when women are recognised for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political.
Nusrat Ghani said:
"I’m always impressed with the women I meet across all of my work – from young mothers at constituency surgeries, to heads of state and fellow MPs. We should continue to lift each other up and cheerlead the fantastic strides women are making in their lives to make a difference.
When I was growing up, it was inconceivable someone like me could be active in politics. My journey has not been easy, but It's been exciting to see changes and opportunities for women opening up within my own lifetime. I'm so thankful to all those who have supported me in my journey so far.
I am proud to have been elected as Wealden’s first female MP, and to have made history as the first female Muslim minister to speak at the Commons dispatch box. I was also shortlisted for the 2021 NATO Parliamentary Assembly Women for Peace and Security award alongside the winner, the Honourable Nancy Pelosi.
Despite the difficulties, I believe we must have the courage to own our space and be heard, and speak truth to power. This has gotten me sanctioned by the Chinese Communist Party, and Putin - but I won’t be silenced…
We still have work to do to ensure that women and girls have the opportunity, safety and security to excel in all areas of life. Investing in women is more crucial than ever for a thriving future for us all.
Let’s recognise the women who lift us up this International Women’s Day."
