UNESCO: Statement by Iceland on the occasion of International Women's Day

Delivered by: H.E. Ms. María Mjöll Jónsdóttir, Ambassador of Iceland
Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.
UNESCO event to mark International Women's Day. 
Paris, 9 March 2026

It is an honor to take the floor for the first time at UNESCO on this important occasion. At the outset, allow me to welcome the new Deputy Director-General, Åsa Regnér, and the new ADG CI, Mariya Gabriel.

I will focus on three points.

First, in a time of growing backlash against women’s human rights and freedoms, we must defend the progress that has been so hard-won. We must keep in mind that change is possible — for the worse, but also for the better. Iceland may rank first on some gender equality indices today, but this was not always the case.

Only half a century ago, many men in our country were shell-shocked when most Icelandic women took the day off from their duties and demanded recognition of the value they bring to society. Most kids ate rather simple dinners that night.

Our story is well known. The women leaders whose shoulders we stand on helped transform our society: universal and affordable childcare; generous use-it-or-lose-it parental leave for both parents; an equal pay standard; and stronger laws to combat gender-based violence, both online and offline.

This brings me to my second point: men. I am glad to see many men in this room. Too often, it is only women who show up for gender equality. This is a mistake. Men have everything to do with gender equality, and we hope those present will encourage others to join next time.

Men still make up the majority of decision makers worldwide. If they are not on our team, the game becomes far harder to win. Here I must give credit to Icelandic men most of whom are on our side. They know that gender equality benefits men as well — bringing peace and prosperity  and improving health and family life..When given the opportunity, most men I enjoy taking care of their kids and working with women, inside or outside the home, who are free to be their equals.

And we must ensure their wellbeing too. Iceland’s new gender-equality action plan includes measures addressing the social challenges men and boys are facing.

Finally, UNESCO plays a unique role. Iceland encourages the Executive Board to ensure the resources needed to address the root causes of inequality across UNESCO’s programmes. We commend the Gender Equality Division for its excellent work.

Iceland is proud to co-chair the Group of Friends of Gender Equality with Brazil, and we welcome all Member States to join our efforts.