Women are not only integral components of the overall social structure but also the architects who shape and build that very structure. The renowned writer Maxim Gorky once stated, “The world is created from the rays of the sun and a mother’s milk,” emphasizing the invaluable role of women in society.
Mothers, sisters, and daughters of our nation have contributed significantly to the economic, social, and cultural spheres of this country. However, as a society, we have still failed to ensure the social security, respect, and freedom they rightfully deserve.
On this International Women’s Day 2025, the challenge before us is not only to safeguard the dignity of our beloved sisters but also to accelerate the attainment of freedom, devoid of gender biases and social inequalities, within political, economic, social, and cultural domains. I strongly believe that our present legislature holds an immense responsibility in this regard, more than ever before.
Until then, while February 28 was previously celebrated as Women’s Day, it was on March 8th, 1917, that women in Soviet Russia secured their right to vote, marking the beginning of a significant discourse on women’s freedom and rights. This day became a symbol of the democratic struggle of women in politics.
Accordingly, I am confident that the Tenth Parliament of Sri Lanka, which holds the highest representation of women in the country’s political history, has the potential to contribute with a new approach to building a safer and more dignified future for our beloved mothers, sisters, and daughters. With that belief, I extend my heartfelt best wishes for today’s International Women’s Day celebrations, with hope for the strength and courage needed to achieve this goal.
The Hon. Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne