Why we still have to fight for equality

Imagine growing up in a world where you're told from a young age that you can achieve anything - and then you realize that it's not that easy after all. This is exactly what many women around the world experience every day. Despite numerous advances in recent decades, there are still significant inequalities that disadvantage women in many areas of life.

According to a 2023 UN study, women make up only 28 percent of leadership positions worldwide, and legal restrictions on female employment still exist in over 50 countries. In addition, the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report shows that at the same pace, it could take almost 130 years until full gender equality is achieved. These numbers make it clear that the road to true equality is still long. What can each individual do to accelerate this change? Real change can only be achieved through shared commitment and continuous questioning of existing structures.

Where are we today?

Today, women have more access to education, are promoted to leadership positions and have a significant impact on society, science and the economy. However, there are still barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Especially in economically weaker regions, many girls lack the same educational opportunities as boys - with long-term consequences for their professional opportunities.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, the gender pay gap in Germany was 18 percent in 2023 - so women continue to earn significantly less on average than men. This pay gap, combined with the fact that women are more likely to take on unpaid care work, leaves them economically disadvantaged in the long term. In addition, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions: the proportion of women on the boards of the 160 largest listed companies is only around 15 percent. These figures show that there is still a lot of work to be done to achieve true equality, even in developed countries.

Empowering women begins with education and opportunities

Education is one of the most powerful keys to equality. Anyone who learns from a young age that gender is not an obstacle to success can confidently go their own way. It's not just governments that are needed here - companies, NGOs and individuals also play an important role.

An example of an organization that empowers women through education and mentoring programs is the Pratthanadee Foundation. This initiative supports women in Thailand in developing their careers and taking care of their own future. A young woman from rural Thailand who had no opportunity to attend secondary school was able to take part in English and vocational training thanks to the foundation. Today she works in Bangkok in a secure job that gives her financial independence. Such programs show how education can sustainably improve the lives of women.

What you can actively do

Equality starts in everyday life - and you can make a bigger difference than you might think. Even small changes can have a big impact in the long term:

• Consume more consciously: Support brands that actively promote fair working conditions and the advancement of women.
  
  
• Educate & raise awareness: Speak to those around you about the challenges women face around the world.
  
  
• Donations or volunteer work: Even small contributions can support organizations that support women's rights.
  
  
• Networks & Mentoring: A strong network helps women to support each other - be it professionally or privately.
  
  
• Become politically active: Signing petitions, speaking to decision-makers or advocating for legal changes – all of this can make a difference. An example of this is the initiative to introduce a women's quota in companies, which was significantly promoted in several countries through public campaigns and petitions. Such actions show that collective engagement can influence political decisions.

International Women's Day is not just an opportunity to celebrate women, but a call to action. It's not just about numbers and statistics, it's about real people with real stories. Everyone can contribute in their own environment to ensure that equal opportunities do not just remain an ideal, but become a reality. Education, fair working conditions and social change are crucial factors. Every small step counts - be it through conscious decisions, supporting initiatives or questioning existing structures. Together we can create a world in which equality is not just a goal, but a given.