Tbilisi: The office of the Public Defender of Georgia extended best wishes on the International Day of the Girl Child. This special day is observed every year on October 11.
The office’s official took to their social media handles to share their message. The official Facebook page of the office stated “Today as we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child, it is important to highlight the limitless potential of each girl and the important role they play in shaping our society. This day is a global platform to support the rights of girls and to assess the progress we have made.”
It further stated, The day highlights the challenges that must be addressed to enable girls to realize their full potential in an environment free from discrimination, violence and inequality.
Sadly, due to the existing gender norms and stereotypes in Georgia, girls still must deal with various invisible and visible barriers from an early age.
A particular challenge remains the practice of early/childhood marriage and betrothal, which substantially violates the fundamental rights of the child and also exists in the country.
Moreover, due to early/childhood marriage, girls stop receiving education which subsequently affects their economic freedom and affects their quality of life. It is essential to realise the role of girls in the country’s future development.
Eliminating discrimination against girls at the initial stage guarantees equal opportunities for women in the future.
Notably in recent years young girls have increasingly expressed their willingness to participate in economic, social and political spaces to explore their potential.
Investing in the health, well-being and opportunities of adolescent girls will benefit not only them but also their families and the country, so it is important to listen to them and share their vision for the future.
The Public Defender of Georgia while congratulating on this historic day expresses support and emphasizes the importance of this day.
The office also calls on the state agencies to take effective steps to eliminate gender inequality in the country.
