Boise City Wire

U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Susan Collins have introduced a bipartisan resolution in recognition of International Women's Day on March 8, 2025. This resolution aims to celebrate the achievements of women and girls globally while acknowledging ongoing challenges to achieving full equality and empowerment.

"Women’s strength and determination is evident across the globe as they fearlessly and tirelessly advocate for their rights, drive economic development, and defend democracy," stated Ranking Member Shaheen. "I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution with Senator Collins. This resolution reaffirms our nation’s belief that the equity, equality, and empowerment of women and girls must be a policy priority here in the United States and around the world."

Senator Collins added, "On International Women’s Day, we honor the achievements of women who have blazed trails and broken barriers in every field of endeavor. At the same time, we recognize that millions of women and girls around the world face growing oppression and violence, denying them the freedoms and opportunities they deserve. Today is an opportunity to reaffirm our enduring commitment to work toward a world that guarantees basic human rights and values the contributions of women of all ages."

The resolution emphasizes U.S. foreign policy priorities regarding women's advancement globally. It highlights key points such as respecting human rights for all women worldwide, ensuring meaningful participation in political, social, and economic spheres, recognizing women's roles in family care, conflict prevention, peace sustainability, economic growth, and food security.

Since 2011, Shaheen and Collins have led this annual resolution in the Senate. They also reintroduced the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA), aiming to prioritize combating gender-based violence internationally within U.S. diplomatic efforts.

In April 2022, Shaheen along with Collins traveled with Senator Joni Ernst to discuss support for Afghan women under Taliban rule at the UN following an attack on a girls’ school in Kabul.

Shaheen's advocacy extends further; she authored the Women Peace Security Act signed into law in 2017 promoting female leadership roles during conflict resolutions or negotiations while addressing educational barriers faced by young girls from developing countries through various initiatives.