The theme of this year’s celebrations, "Working in Solidarity: Women, Human Rights and Peace," highlights the pivotal role women play – globally and locally – in promoting social justice. It recognizes the urgent need to work together to address the issues of abuse, violence and war and their impacts on our societies. It also underscores the link between social justice and peace. And it reminds us that maintaining peace, as well as promoting and protecting human rights, democracy and the peaceful settlement of disputes, are essential to the advancement of all humankind.

As compassionate people, Canadians are deeply aware that inequality and violence exist here and around the world. Now more than ever, we must show the world that diverse people can all live together better and more peacefully – not only to improve the status of women and girls, but also because peace and respect for human rights are the only hope we have for a better future for all our children."