Brussels, Belgium – March 1, 2025

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, leaders, advocates, and policymakers will gather to discuss a critical but often overlooked intersection: the relationship between freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and gender equality. The event, titled “Accelerating Action through Freedom of Religion or Belief: Empowering Women and Girls,” will take place on March 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM, bringing together experts to explore how FoRB can drive progress in key areas of women’s empowerment.

A Call for Action

Under this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” the discussion will emphasize how FoRB plays a vital role in advancing gender equality. Women’s ability to freely practice their faith—or choose not to—directly impacts their access to education, economic opportunities, leadership roles, and personal autonomy.

The event will open with a keynote address by Ms. Antonella Sberna, Vice President of the European Parliament, followed by an expert panel exploring the real-world implications of FoRB on women’s lives. Topics will include:
✅ Economic empowerment – How religious freedom influences job opportunities and financial independence.
✅ Leadership representation – The role of FoRB in breaking barriers for women in politics, business, and community leadership.
✅ Inclusive infrastructure – Creating environments where women of all faiths (or none) can thrive.
✅ Health and well-being – Ensuring informed decision-making in areas like reproductive health and family planning.

A Platform for Dialogue

The discussion, hosted by the European Union & International Affairs Office of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, aims to foster dialogue on the practical ways FoRB can remove systemic barriers, challenge discrimination, and support women in achieving their full potential.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with the panel through a live Q&A session.

Why This Matters

Around the world, women and girls from diverse religious backgrounds face restrictions on their rights, education, and economic participation. In some regions, religious beliefs are used to justify gender-based discrimination, while in others, women are penalized for their religious expression. By recognizing FoRB as a fundamental human right, societies can promote inclusive policies, challenge harmful norms, and ensure that women are not forced to choose between their faith and their freedom.

As International Women’s Day encourages action toward a more equal world, this event serves as a powerful reminder that religious freedom is not just a legal issue—it’s a pathway to empowerment.

For updates and a full list of confirmed speakers, stay tuned to the event’s official page.