United Nations Women's Guild

25/11/2024

25 November 2024: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women - Theme for 2024 "Unite for Peace: Breaking the Silence, Building Resilience."

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 (Resolution 54/134)

The day aims to raise awareness of violence against women, recognize the rights and dignity of women, and mobilize efforts to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence. It also serves as the starting point for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, ending on December 10, Human Rights Day.

Call to Action:
As UNWG, we have a unique role in amplifying the message of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, let us stand united as the United Nations Women’s Guild in advocating for a world where every woman and girl lives free from fear and violence. Together, we can illuminate a brighter path toward equality and justice, inspiring hope and lasting change.

18/10/2024

🌍 World Food Day 2024 Global Conference Celebrations at FAO 🌍

On October 16th, 2024, the FAO hosted the World Food Day Global Conference in Rome, celebrating its 80th anniversary since 1945. The event gathered global leaders to address critical issues surrounding food security, sustainable food systems, and the future of agriculture, from farm to production, harvesting, and consumption.

The conference was officiated by, the FAO Director-General, and featured dignitaries, Minister of Agriculture in Italy from Lesotho FAO Goodwill Ambassador, received a special gift for his exceptional advocacy on global food rights, representing Africa.

A representative of Pope Francis, delivered a heartfelt message on the ethical responsibility we all share in transforming food systems and safeguarding human dignity and justice. Pope Francis emphasized the importance of prioritizing those at the roots of food production, especially farmers and workers, calling on the world to listen to their needs. He urged leaders to address the injustices that harm humanity, fostering a spirit of brotherhood and ensuring everyone’s basic needs are met. He stressed the importance of fairness, compassion, and justice in addressing global food challenges. The Pope also called for policies that protect future generations, emphasizing international cooperation and multilateral collaboration to promote global food security and to focus on the wellbeing of all humanity.

Among the attendees were President of UNWG, Communication, Newsletter, and Publicity Chair for UNWG, and the FAO Children Food Poster Team, representing UNWG as Special Guests in recognition of UNWG long-standing support for FAO, particularly through the Children’s Poster Competition. UNWG's contributions have played a crucial role in inspiring young voices to participate in the dialogue on food security and sustainable practices.

Awards were also presented to Global Food Heroes and Innovators, honoring those making significant contributions to improving food systems worldwide.

The event was a remarkable gathering of global leaders, inspiring collaboration and action towards a future where everyone has access to healthy, nutritious food.

15/09/2024

The UNWG Annual International Bazaar 20th November 2024 FAO Atrium
10:00 to 16:00 hrs.

This event offers a fantastic opportunity for us to come together and raise funds in support of global projects that align with the mission of United Nations Women advancing gender equality, empowering women and girls worldwide, and creating lasting change in vulnerable communities.

The Bazaar reflects our shared commitment to fostering international goodwill, unity, and collaboration to support these life-changing efforts.

Further updates and details will be shared as we approach the event, so please stay tuned for more information.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to making this year's Bazaar 2024 a memorable and impactful event!

06/09/2024

12/08/2024

Ferragosto
August - The Golden Pause....

Italy, like many other European countries, traditionally takes vacations in August for a few reasons, rooted in both cultural practices and historical developments:

Ferragosto Tradition: The most significant reason is the ancient Roman holiday called

Ferragosto (derived from the Latin "Feriae Augusti," meaning "Augustus' rest"), which dates back to 18 BCE. It was originally a festival introduced by Emperor Augustus to provide a period of rest after the intense agricultural work in the summer.

Over the centuries, this period has become ingrained in Italian culture as a time for rest and relaxation.

Catholic Influence: August 15th is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary (Assunzione di Maria), a major Catholic holiday. Many Italians take this as an opportunity to extend their holiday around this religious event, contributing to the tradition of taking vacations in August.

Summer Heat: August is typically the hottest month of the year in Italy. Historically, cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan become uncomfortably hot, making them less desirable places to be. As a result, many people leave the cities and head to cooler locations like the mountains or the seaside.

Economic Shifts: During Italy's post-World War II economic boom (the "Italian economic miracle"), more Italians gained the financial means to take vacations. August became the preferred month as it was already culturally associated with time off due to Ferragosto and the oppressive summer heat.

Workplace Norms: Once the tradition was established, it became standard for many businesses and factories to shut down during August. As a result, August remains a convenient time for most workers to take their holidays since many offices and workplaces close or reduce operations during this period.

These factors combined have solidified August as the traditional vacation month in Italy.

By Susan Taruvinga
UNWG Communication/Information/Publicicity News

09/08/2024

Today we say Happy Women’s Day, South Africa

On this special day, we celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and achievements of women across our nation. Your courage, wisdom, and unwavering spirit are the pillars of our society, inspiring generations to dream bigger and reach higher.

"The world needs strong women. Women who will lift and build others, who will love and be loved, women who live bravely, both tender and fierce; women of indomitable will." – Amy Tenney

Today, we honor the legacy of the women who marched on this day in 1956, standing up against injustice and fighting for equality. Your journey continues to inspire and remind us that change is possible when we stand together. Keep shining, keep leading, and keep being the incredible women you are!

About South Africa Women's Day 9 August 1956:

South Africa's Women’s Day, observed on August 9th, commemorates the brave women who, in 1956, marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the discriminatory pass laws. This historic event, led by over 20,000 women of all races, was a pivotal moment in the struggle for gender equality and human rights in South Africa. Today, Women’s Day is a celebration of their courage and a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and empowerment for all women in the country and all over the world.