Myanmar women have actively participated alongside men in nation-building activities across various fields, such as politics, economics, society, education, knowledge, skills, and the arts, as well as in areas: national defence, security, and administration. In the present time as well, it is clearly evident that Myanmar women are participating even in decision-making levels across different sectors.
The Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar is implementing measures in accordance with the provisions of the 2008 Constitution and in line with the 12 work areas of the National Strategic Plan for the Advancement of Women. These efforts aim to further enhance the capacities of women and girls from all sectors and to improve their access to greater opportunities.
Myanmar is participating in international commitments aimed at promoting the development of women and ensuring gender equality. It is implementing the 12 critical areas of concern of the Beijing Declaration adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing, China, in 1995, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) adopted by the United Nations in 1979, and the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations in 2015.
Myanmar is participating in ASEAN regional initiatives such as the prevention and protection against violence against women, peace and security for women, the gender mainstreaming strategic framework, and the promotion of women’s participation in politics and leadership. Similarly, it is also taking part in the implementation of gender-related strategic plans under cooperation among Mekong subregion countries, while promoting and enhancing women’s rights.
In promoting the advancement of the women’s sector, the individual capacity of women is important, and it is also necessary to ensure greater participation of women in decision-making positions of the State. Therefore, efforts are being made in coordination with the Myanmar National Committee for Women’s Affairs, its working committees, and regional committees at various levels to enhance the capacity and development of women and girls from different fields.
The Myanmar Women’s Day, which falls on 3 July every year, is not only a day to honour outstanding women who are contributing to various important sectors of the country, but also a day designated to inspire and uplift the morale of women from all walks of life. Women and all ethnic people residing in Myanmar are urged to eliminate gender discrimination and to work together in unity so as to contribute more actively to building a more developed nation.
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