News story

International Women's Day 2013

The UK government is taking action to support and empower women across the globe. Find out more this International Women's Day.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Ahead of this year’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, the UK government has released a map showing action across the globe to support and empower women.

Changing behaviour

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is preventing violence. From funding mobile courts to achieve justice for women in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to helping women attacked with acid in Pakistan, UK aid is funding action to help tackle violence overseas.

The government has committed to work to end female genital mutilation (FGM) worldwide within a generation. A new UK aid programme announced this week  is expected to reduce FGM by 30% in at least 10 priority countries in the next 5 years.

As part of its determination to stop violence against women and girls, the Department of International Development is calling on the UN to demand global action. Join their campaign to let the world know that enough is enough.

Legislation reform

Meanwhile, in the UK, the government has provided nearly £40 million of ring-fenced funding for specialist domestic and sexual violence services, and national helplines.

Investment is being made in changing attitudes and behaviours. You may have seen the UK television adverts launched to tackle rape and relationship abuse amongst teenagers.

Legislation is being reformed, with two new stalking offences being introduced to better protect victims and better support the police and prosecutors who bring about justice.

And the Coalition Government has also announced plans to criminalise forced marriage.

Women in business

Steps are being taken to to ensure UK women are able to get ahead in business. Action includes:

  • £1.6 million to support rural women’s enterprise helping women across the country turn their great ideas into profitable businesses
  • 15,000 new mentors to support anyone setting up and growing a business, including over 6,000 women
  • £2m available to provide small grants of up to £500 to childcare providers, including childminders, wishing to set up new childcare businesses
  • new National Careers Service will encourage girls and young women to challenge stereotypes and encourage them to choose from the broadest possible career options. That includes giving all students good information about the wide range of career opportunities to which studying science and maths can lead
  • the Lord Davis Review, looking into the lack of women on boards

Learn more about International Women’s Day and find out how to get involved.

[View the story “International Women’s Day” on Storify]

Published 6 March 2013