Today, the world celebrates International Women's Day - March 8th.
On this occasion, messages and congratulations were sent by state officials, organizations, embassies, political parties, and political party officials.
Vujović: Violence against women and girls must be spoken about loudly, clearly and constantly
Minister of Culture and Media Tamara Vujović said that women are certainly conquering the culture and media sector.
"Out of 17 director positions in Montenegrin cultural institutions, eight are held by women. There are 391 women and 295 men working in these institutions. There are four women and two men in management positions in the Ministry of Culture and Media. Since the beginning of my mandate, I have witnessed almost every day the incredible dedication and joint strength of our women at all levels - women in the creative arts of Montenegro, who are increasingly visible in the public space - media, theater, film, literature, all arts, but also those who work diligently in the cultural heritage protection sector, in our museums, archives, libraries - by balancing the demands of business with private life, they set the best example for future generations," said Vujović.
She also said that violence against women and girls must be spoken about loudly, clearly and constantly.
"Women journalists are particularly exposed in their daily work, and they must have the right to work freely, safely and without fear, accountable only to ethical professional standards and citizens, and never to those in power. Our responsibility is to be quick, ready, united and determined in the fight for freedom of speech and the protection of women in the media."
Vujović also said that being a woman in politics means facing numerous challenges and condemnations.
"The more influential a woman is, the more brutal the attacks are. But it is not impossible. It is not, if you have the will, strength and perseverance of a Montenegrin woman - a heroine, one who does not accept others determining her path and dictating her life. Today, as every day, we remain firmly committed to gender equality and the empowerment of girls, young women and women. This day is an opportunity to remember the progress achieved, but also to acknowledge how much work is still ahead of us," Vujović stated, among other things.
Food Bank: 50 mothers received lunch for their families today
The food bank announced that this year, on the occasion of March 8th, it organized the distribution of lunch to families headed by women.
"Today, 50 mothers received lunch for their families thanks to a special chef - humanitarian Žarko Vučinić. Along with the lunch, they each received a flower as a small gesture of attention from us," the statement said.
The Food Bank said they conducted a survey in February among 100 women with families living throughout Montenegro who had reached out for help, asking: "What would they like as a gift on the occasion of International Women's Day, from local and state government institutions, and what would make their monthly problems easier?"
"Among the offered answers, we listed what socially responsible states have as support measures for the socially vulnerable - paid rent (or use of social housing) in full or in part, depending on the level of vulnerability, free or subsidized basic food and hygiene products, school snacks, paid bills for electricity, water, utility services, free transportation," the Food Bank said.
The NGO said that the survey showed the following: 42 percent said that paid rent would reduce their monthly worries the most, 23 percent said that it would be basic groceries, baby food, school snacks, 22 percent paid bills (electricity, water...), 13 percent said that free transportation would make it easier to go to kindergarten, school, health center...
"Our survey showed that what families lack most is basic human rights and is available to citizens in socially just countries. Local and state authorities are responsible for everything stated in the survey. Humane people and non-governmental organizations are trying to improve the bleak everyday life of those at risk. International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8th every year and symbolizes the fight for women's human rights and equality between women and men in all spheres of life. March 55th is an official holiday in as many as XNUMX countries," the Food Bank said.
They state that in order to fight for social, political and economic gender equality, without silence or hiding, they want to publicly point out the problems of many girls, teenagers, wives, mothers and grandmothers.
"Many of them do not have the opportunity for proper growth and development because they do not have enough food, shoes, clothing, technical aids, or access to preschool and school educational institutions. They do not have the opportunity to receive treatment or buy medications. A significant number of single mothers do not have the opportunity to regularly pay their rent and bills. A secure and well-paid job is not available to everyone in a way that is accessible to everyone. In old age, there is a significant number of women who do not have the right to a pension. Women should be reminded that they are loved and worthy of attention every day. We should not forget that the real gift for this holiday is uncompromising love, respect, and support," the Food Bank said.
Human Resources Department: We remain committed to the mission of empowering women and protecting and promoting their rights in all spheres of life.
Although great progress has been made, challenges still exist, and we remain committed to the mission of empowering women and protecting and promoting their rights in all spheres of life, the Human Resources Department announced today, on the occasion of March 8, International Women's Day.
The statement states that the Human Resources Department and the director of the institution, Agron Camaj, sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of March 8th.
"We, at the Human Resources Department, continue to pay our respects and gratitude to all women who, with their dedication and courage, contribute to creating a better society. May this holiday remain an eternal monument to their struggle and our obligation to remain steadfast on the path towards equal rights, that ideal that must always stand on the pedestal of all our aspirations," the statement reads.
Bečić: Women are the pillar of every advanced society. The basis of success in the family, education, healthcare, science, economy, politics and all other spheres of life
International Women's Day is a special opportunity to express respect and gratitude to all women who, with their knowledge, work and dedication, enrich our society and make it fairer and better, said Aleksa Bečić, Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of Montenegro for Security, Defense, Fight against Crime and Internal Policy.
"This day is also a universal symbol of the centuries-old struggle of women to live in a world of equal rights and opportunities, for which we as a society are still especially called to fight every day. Women are the pillar of every advanced society. The basis of success in the family, education, healthcare, science, economy, politics and all other spheres of life," Bečić emphasized in a statement.
He added that the achievements of women are a testament to the strength, courage and vision that drives change and shapes the future.
"As a society, we have an obligation to provide them with equal opportunities, support and protection from all types of discrimination. That is why today, while we celebrate your everyday, notable and unnoticed achievements, we simultaneously confirm our commitment to further building a community in which the fight for equality will not be just declarative, but a certain future for our society in which every citizen of Montenegro will have the opportunity to be educated, improve, advance and embed themselves in the foundations of the progress of our common home. On that behalf, once again, I congratulate all the women of our country on March 8, deeply grateful for your strength, dedication and invaluable contribution to the progress of our society," said Bečić.
Nenezić: Modern Montenegrin society today has not provided our female citizens with enough in terms of improving their position
The life force throughout the centuries, where Montenegrin women made heavy sacrifices so that, despite difficult times, we as a society could survive in this region, is still present and stronger than ever, announced the President of the Municipal Assembly (MA) of Bar, Branislav Nenezić.
"It is a special honor and pleasure for me to have the opportunity, as the President of the Bar Municipal Assembly, to congratulate our ladies on the occasion of March 8th - International Women's Day. I am sure that nowhere is the immeasurable contribution of our fellow citizens to preserving the fundamental values on which it is based so clearly visible as in Montenegrin society," Nenezić emphasized in a statement.
He added that "modern Montenegrin society today has not provided our citizens with enough in terms of improving their position."
"The position of women in Montenegro is a challenge for all of us, because in addition to condemning unpleasant events, we must be more proactive and find solutions to the fact that, unfortunately, women in Montenegro are still often victims of various forms of violence, they are often paid less for the same job than their male colleagues, there are fewer of them in leadership positions, and there is still no true equality in the political dimension. We must understand that, if we do not enable equal status for women, we as a society will not move forward, there is no better and safer future for future generations without empowered, protected and respected women in Montenegro," said Nenezić.
RCC: Challenges in achieving full gender equality remain
Today, as the world marks International Women's Day, the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) reaffirms its commitment to empowering women across the Western Balkans, the RCC announced.
"Women's contributions to business, education, politics and innovation are the driving force of our societies. However, challenges remain in achieving full gender equality. Just over half of the population in our region are women, and they make up almost half of the employed workforce. Progress has been made in recent years in the form of improved labor force participation, policy reforms and stronger advocacy. The reality, however, is that women still earn 16% less than men, that only one in seven managers is a woman and that only one in three seats in parliament are held by women. Progress is visible, but there is still more work to be done," the RCC statement said.
Secretary General of the RCC Amer Kapetanović said that every day women across the Western Balkans show incredible resilience and leadership in various fields, but that structural barriers continue to limit their full participation.
"Overcoming these differences is not only about fairness but also about utilizing the full economic and social potential of our region," Kapetanović said.
The RCC said they are leading efforts to advance the economic empowerment of women in the region, and that six years ago they launched the "Empowering Women in Entrepreneurship (WE)" campaign, which they said led to the establishment of the Regional Network of Women in Entrepreneurship and the annual recognition of the Western Balkans Women Entrepreneur of the Year.
"These initiatives, which are part of the Action Plan for Common regional market, celebrates and supports women entrepreneurs who are leading change in their communities and sectors. On March 13, 2025, RCC will announce the Women Entrepreneurs of the Year 2024 from the Western Balkans in Pristina, continuing the tradition of highlighting exceptional women who are making a mark on the region's economy. This recognition, which is being awarded for the fourth time, serves as a reminder that empowering women is not a one-day obligation but a mission for every day," the statement reads.
The RCC said that "as we celebrate the achievements of women today," they call for continued joint work to promote equal opportunities, because, as they added, stronger women mean stronger economies, stronger societies, and, ultimately, a stronger and safer region.
Raičević: It makes me proud that Bar is a city where women participate equally in all spheres of social, economic and public life
"It makes me proud that Bar is a city in which women participate equally in all spheres of social, economic and public life," said the Mayor of the Municipality of Bar, Dušan Raičević.
"Dear fellow citizens, on behalf of the Municipality of Bar and on my own behalf, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on the occasion of March 8th, with the wish that you be respected, valued and supported as you deserve, as a pillar of our society. International Women's Day is an opportunity to express respect and gratitude for everything you do every day for our community, family and society as a whole. Your strength, dedication and unwavering fight for equality throughout history have shaped the foundations of a fairer and better society, and your contribution to our city is immeasurable," Raičević emphasized in a statement.
He added that women in key positions, in institutions, economy, education and culture, are an indispensable driving force for the changes we all strive for, they launch initiatives and, with their knowledge and work, make our community more progressive and successful.
"The Municipality of Bar will continue to support policies that empower women, because only a society that fosters equality can be truly strong and prosperous," said Raičević.
SEP: Today we celebrate you - mothers, sisters, wives, daughters, friends, colleagues
To all women – the heroines of our everyday lives, Happy March 8th, the Party of European Progress (SEP) announced today.
"Today we celebrate you – mothers, sisters, wives, daughters, friends, colleagues. Those who build homes with their hands, warm families with their hearts, and change the world with their strength. We celebrate your courage to fight for yourself and others, your love with which you selflessly give, your perseverance not to give up even when it is most difficult. Let this day be a reminder that you deserve respect, love and support – not only today, but every day of the year. Thank you for making the world better, more beautiful and more just. Happy March 8th," reads a statement from SEP, the party led by former Prime Minister Duško Marković.
Đuričić: A woman is not just the pillar of the family, she is the pillar of society
A woman is not just the pillar of the family, she is the pillar of society, said Mladen Đuričić, president of the Municipal Committee (OO) of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) Bar.
"On the occasion of March 8th - International Women's Day, on my own behalf and on behalf of the DPS Bar Municipal Board, I extend my sincere congratulations to all the ladies. Today, March 8th, we celebrate not only your immense contribution to family, community and society, but also the fight for equality, dignity and rights that have been unjustly denied to you throughout history," Đuričić emphasized in a statement.
He added that this day reminds us of the brave women who fought for a better tomorrow, but also of the responsibility we all bear to continue on that path.
"A woman is not just the pillar of the family – she is the pillar of society. Her strength, wisdom and dedication drive change, shape the future and build a world in which justice, equality and respect are the foundation of every community. May this March 8th not just be a day of symbolism, but a moment to stand together for a more just society in which every woman will have an equal opportunity to progress, be safe, respected and supported in all spheres of life. Dear ladies, may this March 8th bring you much joy, love and respect – because you deserve it not only today, but every day of the year," said Đuričić.
Women's Association PES: Women still fear for their lives, for their employment after pregnancy and childbirth, they find it much more difficult to reach managerial positions
This March 8th, as women, we welcome them in a better status than before, given that amendments to the Criminal Code have been made and the proposal to introduce the criminal offense of femicide into our legislation has been proposed, the Women's Association of the Europe Now Movement (PES) announced today.
"The state is determined to tackle this problem. But we cannot help but wonder why this measure had to be resorted to in the first place. As long as gender-based murders continue to occur, as long as we read about violence against women in the family or family community, in politics, in schools, in the newspapers every day, we cannot celebrate this day to its fullest," the statement said.
The Women's Association PES added that although, according to the census, 50 percent of the population in Montenegro are women, they still fear for their lives, for their employment after pregnancy and childbirth, they find it much more difficult to reach managerial positions and, unlike men, they have to defend themselves much more and fight against stereotypes imposed on them.
"There are many expectations from us women, and we have only one essential expectation, and that is to be respected. Every woman, like every man, is a unique and unrepeatable human being. The Women's Association and its members always, and in every place, personally and professionally, advocate for the empowerment and equality of women. Step by step, for stronger and braver women, for a better future for all of us. To all women of Montenegro, Happy Women's Day - March 8th," the Women's Association PES said in a statement.
Krapović: Women's rights are an inseparable part of universal human rights, and we should always and continuously fight for them, even when it seems to us that they have been won.
Minister of Defense Dragan Krapović announced that women's rights are an inseparable part of universal human rights, that they should always and continuously be fought for, even when it seems to us that they have been won.
"On behalf of the Ministry of Defense, the Army of Montenegro and on my own behalf, I congratulate all women in Montenegro on Women's Day, March 8. The recognition and affirmation of the importance of women in society came after a long and difficult struggle against gender discrimination. Women's rights are an inseparable part of universal human rights, and we should always and continuously fight for them, even when it seems to us that they have been won," Krapović emphasized in a congratulatory message delivered by the Ministry of Defense.
He added that he extends special congratulations to women who are employed or who have spent their working lives in the defense system.
"Both in the Ministry and in the Army of Montenegro, we are constantly working to affirm their invaluable contribution, striving to be a role model and driver for other institutions in Montenegro in this regard," said Krapović.
Ćulafić: International Women's Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to all women, especially those who work every day to protect our nature, ecosystems and climate balance
The Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development, Damjan Ćulafić, sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of International Women's Day, emphasizing the importance of their contribution to nature conservation and sustainable development, the ministry headed by Ćulafić announced.
The statement states that March 8th was marked at the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development, and that Ćulafić presented symbolic gifts to colleagues working at the Ministry - anthurium flowers, which symbolize love and friendship.
Ćulafić said that women are an important part of the state of Montenegro and its progress, which is exceptional.
"International Women's Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to all women, especially those who work every day to protect our nature, ecosystems and climate balance. Women in all sectors play an important role in promoting sustainable practices and preserving natural resources for future generations," emphasized Minister Ćulafić.
The statement added that Ćulafić "will particularly emphasize the contribution of women who, through their daily actions at the local and global levels, bring about concrete changes - from leading environmental initiatives to innovations in sustainable technologies."
"The balance we want to achieve in society, as well as the preservation of our planet, are not possible without the engagement of women. Therefore, it is our responsibility to ensure they have an equal opportunity to participate in all processes that shape our ecological and social future," added Ćulafić.
He said that "the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development will continue to work on strengthening equality policies, as well as on integrating ecological principles into all aspects of social life, with continued support for women who actively contribute to the preservation of our planet."
Red Cross of Montenegro: As the world faces numerous crises, achieving gender equality is more important than ever
The Red Cross of Montenegro announced that on the occasion of International Women's Day, Red Cross employees and volunteers in Montenegro are sending a strong message that women, wherever they are, must be empowered, equal and must exercise all the rights they are entitled to.
"We use this day as an occasion to highlight all the wonderful women who positively contribute to personal development, family development, community development, society as a whole, but also to global progress. Women in red - volunteers and employees of the Red Cross around the world, make an immeasurable contribution every year, participating in various actions and initiatives, and policymaking, and for that they must first be empowered and grow in a supportive environment," the statement from the Red Cross of Montenegro states.
The organization added that as the world faces numerous crises, achieving gender equality is more important than ever.
"From leadership to grassroots initiatives, women are driving change and making a difference in communities around the world. Along this path, the women of the Red Cross and Red Crescent global network are always there, on the front lines, facing humanitarian challenges with unwavering commitment and compassion. Happy International Women's Day. Highlight the incredible women in your life today and every day," the Red Cross of Montenegro said in a statement.
Borovinić Bojović: Women are the support of the family, the initiators of change and the pillars of every society
The President of the Assembly of the Capital City of Podgorica, Jelena Borovinić Bojović, sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of today's holiday, Women's Day, the Capital City Assembly announced.
"My dears,
"I heartily congratulate you on March 8th, the day when we celebrate everything that women are - strength, love, tenderness, dedication and the unwavering will to make every day more beautiful, for ourselves and others," Borovinić Bojović emphasized.
She added that women are the backbone of the family, the drivers of change, and the pillars of every society.
"In our daily responsibilities, we often forget how important it is to look back and be proud of everything we achieve - as mothers, daughters, wives, sisters, friends and colleagues. Therefore, let this day be a reminder that you are valued, loved and respected. I wish you lots of health, happiness, success and wisdom in everything you do. Happy holiday," said Borovinić Bojović.
CCE: Patriarchal patterns and gender stereotypes contribute to the spiral of violence against women and girls.
The Center for Civic Education (CCE) announced that International Women's Day is not only an opportunity for celebration, but also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's social, economic, cultural and political equality.
"Where is Montenegro? 17 women have been murdered in the last five years, while the number of reported cases of violence is growing. The actual numbers are certainly higher because many women do not report violence due to fear, economic dependence or lack of institutional protection," the CCE statement states.
The non-governmental organization (NGO) added that patriarchal patterns and gender stereotypes contribute to the spiral of violence against women and girls.
"Especially concerning – they are present among high school students and through peer violence," said CCE.
They state that women are leading in education (61,8% of undergraduate graduates), but that they are still a minority in the labor market (46,1% of employees).
"Women are still on the margins of political decision-making - only 6 female ministers (19%) and no vice-presidents of the Government of Montenegro, and 28 female MPs (34%) in the Parliament of Montenegro. How to move forward to change? Faster court procedures for cases of violence Education in schools on gender equality and violence prevention Support for women who fight discrimination and violence Visibility and highlighting the successes of women in all areas," CCE states.
Forward Movement: We continue to witness inequality between women and men in our country
The Women's Forum of the Forward Movement wishes all citizens of Montenegro a happy March 8th - International Women's Day.
"March 8th affirms the economic, political and social equality of women, and represents a symbol of women's social successes and the fight for their greater rights. Unfortunately, in the consumer society we live in, this date is increasingly being reduced to a mere holiday of giving, which relativizes the importance of everything that women have fought for for decades," the Forward Movement said in a statement.
The party added that "women in Montenegro have always been the pillar of the family as wives, mothers and housewives, but also those who made a great contribution to the liberation of our homeland during World War II."
"However, despite the great sacrifice they have made, we continue to witness inequality between women and men in our country. This is particularly evident in the fact that women continue to represent a convincing minority in the socio-political sphere and in decision-making processes, and in the widespread opinion that they should take care of the house and children and not interfere in 'men's' affairs. It is precisely because of such understandings that the participation of women in public life is crucial for building a stable society that will be based on solidarity, tolerance and justice. On these principles, it is possible to create a community in which women will have a relationship of alliance with men, who should be their support and support, not an obstacle in the exercise of their rights," the Forward Movement statement reads.
They state that a free, economically independent, educated woman who has every opportunity to achieve success in the profession she chooses, in the way she wants, is the ideal and goal we must strive for as a country.
"In this sense, it is necessary for the competent institutions to make greater efforts to eliminate discrimination against women, especially all forms of violence against them, which we hear about every day and which are taking on worrying proportions. Winning rights, freedoms and equality is a continuous process that requires courage and perseverance from everyone. Only in this way, by joining forces, can we create a society in which there will be no gender discrimination and in which everyone will have equal chances and opportunities, regardless of any personal characteristics," said the Forward Movement.
Palestinian Embassy: Palestinian women and girls live in an unimaginable state of suffering and trauma, forced to endure death, forced displacement, starvation, imprisonment and torture, including sexual violence
Today is International Women's Day, the second in a row since the ongoing Israeli genocide, the Palestinian Embassy in Montenegro announced today.
"March 8, a day that should celebrate the strength and resilience of women around the world, is being greeted by Palestinian women and girls in a horrific reality due to the ongoing Israeli genocide. They live in an unimaginable state of suffering and trauma, forced to endure death, forced displacement, hunger, imprisonment and torture, including sexual violence," the statement said.
The Palestinian Embassy added that as of March 8, 2025, of the 49.337 Palestinians killed by Israeli occupation forces, 12.316 were women.
"Thousands of women were killed or wounded as they fled, some holding white flags, others hugging their children. Women and children account for 69% of the total of 111 wounded. Moreover, 759% of the missing persons in the Gaza Strip due to the Israeli aggression are women and children, amounting to 70 missing. Reports from Gaza indicate that almost two million people were forcibly displaced from their homes during the Israeli aggression, half of whom are women," the statement reads.
The Embassy of Palestine said that in the midst of these difficult humanitarian challenges, 13.901 Palestinian women are living a tragic reality after losing their husbands in the genocide, becoming the sole breadwinners of their families who were left without their main breadwinner.
"These women now bear the heavy burden of providing for their livelihoods and caring for their children in suffocating economic conditions, further exacerbated by the Israeli siege and destruction. The loss of 17.861 Palestinian children is not just a number – it is a deep trauma and a wound etched in the memories of their mothers, who carried their children's dreams under the rubble of Israeli aggression. In the Gaza Strip, where destruction dominates daily life, women find themselves in unbearable circumstances. Tents have become their only refuge, but they provide neither the safety nor the dignity that women deserve," the Embassy of Palestine said.
They also state that International Women's Day is not just a day for celebration, but also a day for action.
"The lack of concrete international measures to stop Israel's ongoing genocidal war against the Palestinian people allows this painful reality to persist, and with it the daily suffering that deprives Palestinian women of their basic human rights," the Embassy of Palestine said.
Dukaj: This day is an opportunity to recognize you for your contributions to society, family, and professional life.
Minister of Public Administration Maraš Dukaj announced that he is taking this opportunity to congratulate all ladies on March 8, Women's Day, on behalf of the Ministry of Public Administration (MPA) and on his own behalf.
"This day is an opportunity to recognize you for your contributions to society, family, and professional life. Your dedication and support make the world a more beautiful place. We continue to fight for your rights together. I wish you much happiness and success in all your future endeavors," Dukaj emphasized in his congratulatory message.
Joković: This day symbolizes the fight for women's rights, their strength, courage and dedication to family, work and society
The President of the Socialist People's Party (SNP) and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, Vladimir Joković, announced that March 8 symbolizes the fight for women's rights, their strength, courage and dedication to family, work and society.
"On the occasion of March 8, International Women's Day, on behalf of the Socialist People's Party (SNP) of Montenegro and on my own behalf, I extend my sincere congratulations to all members of the fairer sex. This day symbolizes the fight for women's rights, their strength, courage and dedication to family, work and society. Although significant progress has been achieved, our shared responsibility remains to continue the fight for full equality, the economic empowerment of women and the creation of a society in which every woman has equal opportunities for success," Joković emphasized in a congratulatory message delivered by the SNP.
He added that the SNP will continue to strongly advocate for the protection of women's rights, the elimination of discrimination, and the improvement of their position in all segments of society.
"Only through solidarity and working together can we build a more just society, in which women will be truly equal and valued. In that name, I wish you much health, happiness, success and love, not only today, but every day of the year," Joković said.
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