Wednesday March 8th marks International Women's Day 2023. COSLA President, Councillor Morrison, said:

“International Women’s Day is a day we can come together to celebrate the achievements of women and girls everywhere, whilst recognising there is of course still more work to do. This year’s theme, ‘Embrace Equity for a better world’ is a reminder that diverse and equal representation is very much our strength.

As a female Councillor and political leader, I know the barriers women face to running for elected office well, and am heartened by the work I see being done to overcome these. Our communities work best when all voices are raised and empowered to make change – we can all help by listening to and amplifying voices we don’t always hear, emboldening women and girls in our communities to share their experiences, views and expertise, and giving women the support they need to put themselves forward to represent their communities - for a fairer and better world.

I would also like to pay tribute to all members of our communities who support women and girls facing the greatest adversity – local government workers and charities are working on the ground every day to support women and girls facing some of the toughest circumstances imaginable, to find safety and a better life. It is all of our duty to ensure that women’s voices from all backgrounds and circumstances are not only heard, but raised, to help to shape the policies and communities that impact them.”