To lessen the disparity between men and women, the idea of gender equality must be ingrained within society as well as being enshrined in legislation, President Michel Aoun said Wednesday.
During an event held at Baabda Palace in honor of International Women's Day, Aoun also called on organizations concerned with women rights to unify their efforts, opining that this solidarity would strengthen the causes they lobby for.
“The road [forward] begins with consolidating the conviction – in our societies, upbringing and culture – that women and men are equal in their rights and duties and that women are key partners in building the country and in political decision-making,” Aoun said.
“Then comes the legislative treatment in Parliament to endorse the necessary laws, which will enable the practical application of equality in rights and duties,” the president added.
He called on Lebanese women not simply to ask for their rights, but also to actively pursue them.
“Don’t wait for the man to give up on what he considers to be his role and his right. Take the initiative, prove your presence and enter the political field in an effective [role],” Aoun said, directly addressing the country’s women.
This article has been adapted from its original source.
