The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade joined the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day 2026, observed annually on March 8.

This year’s observance was held under the theme: Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.

The annual observance recognises the global contributions of women everywhere and advocates for their continued equal and meaningful participation in all spheres of society.

The ministry welcomed the focus of this year’s theme, which reinforces the principles of fairness, equity and non-discrimination under the law.

“Indeed, this year’s commemoration is a timely opportunity to reiterate Jamaica’s support for the global call for gender equality and for decisive action to dismantle barriers to equal justice and affirm the rights of women and girls everywhere. The Government of Jamaica has pursued a robust legislative review agenda aimed at strengthening equality and promoting an inclusive legal framework. This has led to significant gains in the legal, justice, security and military sectors, as well as in business,” Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith outlined.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to its role in advancing and protecting the rights of women and girls while promoting their full participation in national, regional, and international development, and also echoed the call by Johnson-Smith for more decisive action to dismantle barriers to equal justice and to affirm the rights of women and girls everywhere.

On Monday (March 9), Permanent Secretary Ambassador Sheila Sealy Monteith and staff, clad in the colours of the observance, stood in solidarity with women and girls worldwide, reaffirming the ministry’s enduring commitment to advancing their rights and expanding opportunities across all spheres of life.