Celebrating women survivors on International Women's Day

International Women's Day is celebrated on 8th March every year. The official theme in 2012 is "Connecting girls, inspiring futures". This annual celebration has been held since the 1900s and is highlighted all over the world to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. It is also a time to reflect on the continuing struggle for equality, justice, peace and development.

Freedom from Torture works with many women and girls who have survived torture and overcome unimaginable adversity. We see the evidence daily that women around the world are subjected to persecution, sexual violence, torture, deep-seated inequalities and discrimination. However, we are also inspired on a daily basis by the determination and passion of the incredible women and girls who come to Freedom from Torture.

Their lives will never be the same again – many continue to cope with significant loss, of their families, homes, cultures – and struggle to build a new identity after torture, in an unfamiliar host country. Despite this, many of these women never give up the fight to stand up for themselves and the rights of those around them. Often continuing to care for others, they gradually build new lives for themselves, surviving and making positive contributions to their new society.