Returning to Cinema Palace is an emotional experience. It brings back memories from my time as a journalist and documentary filmmaker.

In a film I made ten years ago, I followed six women from North Africa who came to Belgium. Their stories of courage and hope are inspiring.

As we approach International Womens Day 2025, we celebrate 30 years since the Beijing Declaration. Sadly, womens rights are still under attack. As the EU Commissioner for Equality, I take my responsibility seriously to defend these rights.

This week, we are launching our Roadmap for Womens Rights, our vision for gender equality in the EU. The goal is to make the lives of women and girls safer and fairer.

This Roadmap emphasizes rights such as living free from gender-based violence and equal pay. We need the support of all EU institutions, member states, and society.

Tonight, we celebrate the achievements of Mary Robinson, Irelands first female president. She has worked tirelessly for human rights and climate change. Mary Robinson is an inspiration.