In the Netherlands for example, it was not until 1919 that women were given the right to vote. Women were not part of the cabinet/politically represented until 1956. Until 1957 women in the Netherlands were considered equal to those with learning disabilities and framed as legally incompetent within Dutch civil law. As a result, they were unable to open a bank account and manage their own finances. This is still the case in a number of countries.

Today women worldwide are underrepresented in several fields, technology, engineering, mathematics, sociocultural- and biological considerations. Women aren’t fully represented with in the international political context. In 27 of the 196 countries 28 women serve as Heads of State and/or Government. At the current rate, UN Women states that equality in the highest positions of power will not be reached for another 130 years.  

And most importantly, men need to be engaged in this endeavor. Without men, no equality.

​​Therefore it remains important to have constant attention for women's rights and equality worldwide by both men and women. The Embassy has collaborated on a number of activities with important partners and stakeholders, to contribute to this year's theme of International Women’s Day ‘Accelerate Action: rights, equality and empowerment for all women and girls’.

The Women’s Network in London is off to a good restart! At the relaunch of the Network (on ice due to COVID) we welcomed 50 female professionals - Dutch, British and international women working in the United Kingdom. The marvelous Joanna Roper, British Ambassador to the Netherlands, shared inspiring words and experiences that underline the importance of networks like these. Grateful for the valuable contribution.

Last week, together with the Swedish Embassy, we organised a special documentary screening of ' Nice Ladies', highlighting the stories of women affected by the war in Ukraine. The “Nice Ladies”, a Ukrainian cheerleading team, face an impossible choice between motherland and grandmotherhood, staying and leaving. Torn apart, the ladies try to keep contact to hold on to their sanity amidst terror, heartbreak and survivor's guilt. The documentary is most relevant and important, as we have just passed the three year mark since the full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Mariia Ponomarova, the Ukrainian director of Nice Ladies, and editor Annelotte Medema participated in the screening, as well as British and international participants. The screening was opened by Marijn Noordam, Head of Political Section at the Dutch Embassy, en Elin Norqvist, Head of Culture at the Swedish Embassy.

International Women’s Day is a moment to recognize and appreciate the impact of women such as Mariia Ponomarova and the Nice Ladies everywhere—across cultures, industries, and generations. The participation of women who are affected by conflict, such as those in Ukraine, contribute to stronger and resilient communities. 

​​​​Later this month, the Dutch Centre in London is organising the panel discussion ‘Strong Women – Art exhibition and Panel Discussion’ on the 26th of March, in which Annemijn van den Broek, our Deputy Head of Mission, will be participating. Prior to the panel discussion, Dutch artist Tabitha Boekweit will be exhibiting her work ‘The Power of Women’. Her work focuses on the human connection and the continuation of dialogue about each person’s cultural history and the larger current themes. 

We look forward to hear the stories of other panelists Sabine L. van Elsland (Epidemiologist at Imperial College and WHO) and Flavia Frigeri (Art Historian and Curator National Portrait Gallery) and sharing experiences on women’s challenges in modern society, moderated by Fleur Launspach (NOS).

This event is open to all. More information can be found on the website of the Dutch Centre.  

See you there!