Embassies promote girls’ rights

Despite stark differences, New Zealand, Switzerland, Austria, Finland, and the Philippines are steadfast in pushing for women empowerment.

Spark! Philippines, together with the embassies of the above-mentioned countries, have undertaken meaningful and impactful campaigns to advance women's rights.

For this year's International Day of the Girl, Switzerland Ambassador to the Philippines Alain Gaschen and Finland Ambassador to the Philippines Juha Pykko reiterated girls' rights to equal opportunities through the "You Can Be Anything" program organized with the Quezon City government at Araneta City, Quezon City last 31 October. Spark! Philippines youth ambassadors Princess and Allyza joined the festivities.

Maica Teves, executive director of Spark! Philippines held a discussion with former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark to share advocacies on sustainable development, climate action, gender equality and women's leadership.

Clark was gifted a Vote to Tote bag, a Spark! Philippines' project that aims to economically empower women and generate income while confronting environmental problems and issues caused by electoral campaign materials.

Last 25 October, Austrian Ambassador to the Philippines Johann Brieger met with Teves to talk on the 16-Day Activism Against Gender-based Violence, the Initiative for Marawi Women, and many of its other programs concerning women.

Spark! Philippines is looking forward to having more allies in improving the role of women today.