Mary Robinson, a trailblazer in Ireland’s political landscape, became the country’s first female president in 1990. As a barrister, she further established her influence on a global scale, joining the United Nations as High Commissioner for Human Rights and succeeding Nelson Mandela as Chair of The Elders. In a celebratory screening at UN Cinema in Brussels, her remarkable journey was showcased through the documentary ‘Mrs Robinson’, ahead of International Women’s Day.
A fierce advocate for human rights, Mary Robinson has long championed women’s rights and played an instrumental role in the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland. Her courageous visits to post-genocide Rwanda and war-torn Somalia cemented her dedication to human rights. Persuaded to share her story through the documentary, she aims to motivate others. “Everyone can make a difference, and in particular on International Women’s Day,” she stated, urging the audience to embrace their responsibility to effect change for equality.
This year holds special significance as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, a landmark moment recognising women’s rights as human rights. European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib warned that these rights are under threat, emphasizing the EU’s new ‘Roadmap for Women’s Rights’, which aims to enhance the safety and opportunities for women and girls across Europe. This urgent call for gender equality is crucial, as Mary Collins of the European Women’s Lobby highlighted that one in three women in the EU has faced violence.
Despite Mary Robinson’s historic presidency, women’s leadership remains scarce globally. In the recent record-breaking election year, only five women emerged as heads of state from 31 elections, underscoring the ongoing gender disparity in political roles. Florence Raes of UN Women highlighted that having women in decision-making positions is essential for effective solutions and outcomes.
Mary Robinson, the first female president of Ireland, inspired audiences at the UN Cinema screening of ‘Mrs Robinson’. Celebrating her commitment to women’s rights and human rights, Robinson urged individuals to recognise their power to enact change. As the world marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, calls for urgent action on gender equality and women’s leadership are more pressing than ever, especially in the context of climate justice.
In summary, the screening of the documentary ‘Mrs Robinson’ illuminates Mary Robinson’s monumental influence in advancing human rights and women’s equality. Her clarion call for awareness of our collective power, especially on International Women’s Day, resonates deeply. As the movement for gender equality intensifies, it is evident that urgent actions and women’s representation in leadership roles are critical for shaping not only a just world but also a sustainable future, especially in climate justice.
Original Source: unric.org
