Ruhama: Celebrating achievement this International Women's Day

March 8th is International Women’s Day, a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. #BreakTheBias is the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

This year we are highlighting the great work being done by Ruhama.

Ruhama is an Irish NGO and registered charity that offers support to women impacted by prostitution, sex trafficking and other forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

We asked Barbara Condon, CEO of Ruhama for her comments on what International Women’s Day means for users of Ruhama’s services.

“Ruhama understands trafficking for sexual exploitation to be a form of violence against women because it does not exist in isolation. It fits within a range and continuum of gendered violations, including sexual violence, coercive control, domestic violence and psychological misogynist violence to keep women in subservient positions in society.

A gender equal world would mean a life free from sexual exploitation and violence. It is time to #breakthebias and silence that surrounds prostitution and human trafficking. You can choose to look the other way, but you can never say again that you did not know.”

Barbara Condon, Ruhama CEO

And how is the crisis in Ukraine increasing the risk of sex trafficking for at risk women?

“We are deeply concerned about all the traumatised women and children from Ukraine, arriving at borders. Traffickers & predators prey on vulnerable people and use a time of crisis to exploit their vulnerabilities. Borders need to be properly coordinated and up to date information needs to be disseminated urgently. The need for collaboration amongst governments and law enforcement agencies internationally is paramount.”

Barbara Condon, Ruhama CEO

To support this worthy cause you can donate to Ruhama here.

If you would like to find out more about International Women’s Day check out the website here.

“Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias. Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness against bias. Take action for equality.” Internationalwomensday.com