The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the occasion of International Women’s Day:

“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the important progress made in advancing the rights of women in Canada and around the world. True prosperity and security can only result from the full and active participation of women in all aspects of society.

“We must use today to reflect on our individual and collective responsibility to ensure that women and girls are fully supported within the principles of freedom, human rights, democracy and the rule of law. These values are integral to peace and prosperity at home and abroad.

“Throughout the world, violence against women and girls continues to be one of the most‎ prevalent violations of human rights. And the problem, tragically, continues to escalate. This is particularly the case for women in situations of conflict and displacement, such as in much of Iraq and Syria.

“Peace and security can never be anchored where violence thrives. So long as violence remains widespread, we must recognize that we have not done enough. We have a responsibility to intervene to end the violence and help survivors to recover and rebuild their lives.

“As we mark International Women’s Day, it is critical that we commit to do more to protect and empower women and girls, and to promote peace and security.”