Senate Resolution Supports International Women’s Day, Formalizing Global Security Link to Women’s Rights

This resolution is the Senate making a formal, high-level statement ahead of International Women’s Day, essentially declaring that the U.S. government views the rights and empowerment of women and girls globally as a top strategic priority. It doesn't change any law or create a new spending program, but it lays out the compelling case for why supporting gender equality isn't just a moral issue—it's critical for global stability and U.S. security. The resolution cites specific data points, like the fact that peace agreements last significantly longer (at least 15 years) when women are involved in negotiating them, grounding the policy in practical outcomes.

Why Your Commute Depends on Global Gender Equality

For the average person juggling work and family, why should a Senate resolution about women in far-off countries matter? Because the resolution frames gender equality as essential for peace and economic stability, which directly impacts everything from global supply chains to the cost of goods. The document highlights that the level of violence against women in a country is a better predictor of its overall peacefulness than its wealth or democracy level. In short, unstable, conflict-ridden regions disrupt global markets and create humanitarian crises that the U.S. inevitably gets involved in. By formally supporting policies that stabilize communities through women’s empowerment, the Senate is arguing for a more secure world, which ultimately translates into fewer global shocks hitting your wallet.

The Data on Global Setbacks: Afghanistan and Child Marriage

This resolution doesn't pull punches when detailing current crises. It specifically calls out the devastating restrictions imposed on women and girls in Afghanistan since August 2021—like the ban on girls attending school past the sixth grade and the closure of domestic abuse shelters. This is the government formally acknowledging severe human rights violations. Furthermore, it shines a light on the crisis of child marriage, noting that roughly 12 million girls are married before age 18 every year. For those who track social progress, these numbers are a stark reminder of the massive hurdles still in place. The resolution serves as a clear directive that U.S. foreign policy should actively push back against these setbacks.

The Limits of a Resolution

It’s important to remember what this document is and what it isn’t. It is a powerful statement of intent, honoring activists and reaffirming the U.S. commitment to ending violence and discrimination against women globally. It isn't a new law. Since it’s a resolution, it doesn't allocate a single dollar or mandate any new regulations. Its power lies entirely in its ability to guide existing policy and signal to the world and to government agencies what the Senate considers a priority. The resolution also includes a commitment to respect 'different cultural, historical, and religious backgrounds' while promoting fundamental human rights. While this is intended to ensure respectful engagement, it creates a slight tension: how will the U.S. hold countries accountable for rights abuses if those abuses are framed as cultural practices? This balance will require careful navigation by diplomats on the ground.