Pope Leo calls for Solidarity and Respect for Women on International Women’s Day

Marking International Women’s Day, Pope Leo XIV called on Christians and people of goodwill to renew their commitment to recognizing the equal dignity of women and men, while expressing concern over the persistent violence and discrimination faced by women across the world.

Speaking to around 15,000 pilgrims gathered in Saint Peter's Square for the Sunday Angelus on march 8, the Pope said, “Let us renew our commitment to recognizing the equal dignity of men and women,” the Pope said, emphasizing that such recognition is rooted in the Gospel.

He lamented that many women, from childhood onward, continue to face discrimination, injustice, and different forms of violence.

“To them, in a special way, go my solidarity and my prayers,” the pontiff said.

Violence against women must never be ignored

The Pope also addressed the issue of violence against women in the March edition of the Vatican's monthly magazine, Piazza San Pietro. 

Responding to a letter from a reader in Rome who expressed anguish over rising cases of femicide, the Pope described violence in relationships, especially against women, as a cause of “great suffering.”

He warned that such acts must never be underestimated and urged victims and witnesses to report abuse without fear.

“Violence, any violence, is the frontier that divides civilization from barbarism,” the Pope said.

The pontiff also recalled the teaching of Pope John Paul II on the “feminine genius,” highlighting the indispensable role women play in nurturing a culture of care, fraternity, and hope within families and societies.

According to Pope Leo, women often become targets of violence precisely because they embody values such as faith, freedom, justice, solidarity, and hope, values that challenge a mentality shaped by selfishness, prejudice, discrimination, and the desire to dominate others.

Education and a culture of respect

Pope Leo stressed that education is key to preventing violence and fostering a culture of respect. He supported stronger collaboration between schools and the Church in forming young people with values that promote dignity and equality.

“Walking together in mutual respect for our shared humanity is not a dream,” the Pope said. “It is the only possible reality for building a world of light for everyone.”

He encouraged cooperation among families, schools, parishes, movements, religious congregations, and public institutions to develop concrete initiatives that prevent violence against women and promote the dignity of every person.

Relevance for Asia

The message of Pope Leo XIV holds particular significance for Asia, where women play vital roles in family life, education, healthcare, and the pastoral mission of the Church. 

Across the region, countless women serve as catechists, teachers, community organizers, and peace advocates who sustain and strengthen local faith communities.

At the same time, many Asian societies continue to grapple with challenges such as gender inequality, domestic violence, human trafficking, and limited opportunities for women’s leadership in social and political life.

In this context, the Pope’s call to build a culture of respect, promote education for equality, and strengthen cooperation among families, schools, and faith communities offers a timely invitation for Churches and societies across Asia.

As the region continues to seek pathways toward peace, justice, and inclusive development, recognizing the dignity and leadership of women remains essential for building a more humane and compassionate future.