Vatican City: Marking International Women’s Day, Pope Leo XIV urged the global community to renew its commitment to recognizing the equal dignity of men and women. The appeal came during his Sunday Angelus address before nearly 15,000 pilgrims and visitors gathered in St. Peter’s Square, along with thousands more following the prayer through broadcasts around the world.
Referring to the significance of March 8, the Pope reminded the faithful that the Christian understanding of human dignity is rooted in the message of the Gospel. He emphasized that men and women share the same inherent worth and that society must continue striving to ensure this equality is respected in all areas of life.
The Holy Father expressed particular concern about the continued discrimination faced by women in many parts of the world. He lamented that countless women still endure injustice and violence from a young age, facing barriers that limit their opportunities and threaten their safety. Offering words of support, the Pope said his solidarity and prayers are especially directed toward women who suffer from such hardships.
The issue of violence against women was also addressed by the Pope in the March edition of Piazza San Pietro, a Vatican publication released the same day. In the magazine, he responded to a reader’s question regarding the growing concern about abuse and violence against women. In his response, the Pope stressed the need for a strong partnership between educational institutions and the Church to cultivate a “culture of respect” among young people.
According to the Pope, schools and faith communities have a shared responsibility in shaping attitudes that promote dignity, mutual respect, and equality between men and women. Such efforts, he suggested, are essential to preventing violence and building healthier societies for future generations.
Observed annually on March 8, International Women’s Day honors the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across the world. The day, which emerged in the early twentieth century from movements advocating women’s rights and labor reforms, has evolved into a global occasion for reflection, celebration, and advocacy aimed at advancing gender equality and empowering women everywhere.