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International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8, stands as a global testament to the achievements, resilience, and vision of women. Across continents and cultures, this day is marked by reflection and celebration, recognizing the profound impact women have made in shaping societies and inspiring generations.
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Women shaping Hong Kong’s future
As Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said, women enrich every facet of society – government, business, academia, the arts, innovation, and family life. Their remarkable achievements continue to challenge prejudices, erase boundaries, and embrace new opportunities, underscoring the indispensable role women play in Hong Kong’s ongoing story.
Lee noted a growing number of listed companies now have female directors, and women’s participation in corporate leadership is steadily increasing. In certain professions, including law and accounting, women constitute more than half of the workforce. Within the government, seven out of 15 policy bureaus are led by women. Including the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, eight bureaus in total are headed by women – the highest proportion in any previous administration, according to Lee.
He emphasized that women’s talent and determination are vital to the city’s continued success, driving progress and fostering resilience in a rapidly changing world.
China’s commitment to gender equality
China has also taken decisive steps to advance gender equality. At the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing in October, President Xi Jinping highlighted women’s vital role in creating, promoting, and carrying forward human civilization. He called on the international community to embrace its shared responsibility in supporting women’s progress worldwide.
This direction aligns with the 15th Five-Year Plan, which champions women’s development and upholds gender equality as a core policy priority. Under the plan, China is committed to unlocking and unleashing the innovative potential of women, particularly in accelerating the development of new quality productive forces, as well as emerging and future industries.
Women at the forefront of innovation
Chinese female entrepreneurs and professionals are making significant strides in emerging fields. They now account for over half of all internet entrepreneurs in China. In cutting-edge sectors such as AI research, technology development, and commercial aerospace, women are becoming an indispensable force, driving innovation and shaping the nation’s future.
Experts advocate for integrating women’s empowerment and development into the overall national development strategy, making it a key yardstick of social progress. The approach ensures that gender perspectives are being taken into account in all aspects of economic and social policies, aligning national development with the well-being and aspirations of women, alongside providing a stable and sustainable foundation for the future.
A legacy of strength and grace
As John Lee eloquently put it, the qualities of women are as enduring and elegant as traditional Chinese silk – their clarity, poise, resilience, and inclusive spirit shine through in every sphere. Balancing family and career, they demonstrate confidence and grace, inspiring future generations to push boundaries and pursue progress.
