Washington, D.C. – Today, Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Caucus Representatives Lois Frankel (FL-21) and Michael Waltz (FL-06) released the following statement recognizing International Women’s Day.

“Increasing women’s participation in peace and security efforts is crucial to advancing gender equality and to broader international security,” said Rep. Frankel. “This year’s International Women’s Day theme—Break The Bias—underscores the importance of breaking down the barriers to women’s participation in these critical sectors. By building more equitable and gender-inclusive societies, that put women in the rooms where decisions are being made, we’re creating a more peaceful and secure world.”

“International Women’s Day is a time to highlight the achievements of women worldwide. As a Green Beret I have seen firsthand that in societies where women thrive, extremism does not. Empowering women is essential to our national security. The United States must remain steadfast as a global leader in efforts to elevate women around the world,” said Rep. Waltz. 

The WPS Caucus aims to ensure that women play active, meaningful roles in all aspects of their communities and society to advance democracy and stability worldwide, as provided in the Women, Peace, and Security Act of 2017 (P.L. 115-68). More info on the Caucus can be found here.

###