International Women’s Day message from HRH Crown Princess Katherine

Belgrade, 7 March 2007 - On the occasion of International Women’s Day 8 March 2007, I would like to extend my congratulations to all women in Serbia.

Our women have proven to be the foundation of our Country. They have managed to preserve their families many times during our history, at the same time struggling for a better future.

I would like to emphasize that this year’s slogan of the International Women’s Day - “Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls” brings this great problem to the focus of our public, because it exists here as well as in many other countries in the World. That’s why I would like to address men, as well, to join us in the struggle against this great evil, and help us build a society free of abuse and violence, because such behaviour is profoundly in disparity to our moral and our tradition.

Only then we could be sure that our country continues its democratic path and prosperity, with gender equality among its foundation principals, and that kind of future I am certain we would like to have for our children.

Once again, I would like to extend my congratulations to all women in Serbia and use this opportunity to express my admiration for their endurance, courage and patience that they have shown during very difficult times, and that they are still showing. Let us remember that children are the future of our country. The future of Serbia and its well being is in the hands of all our mothers who very much deserve our respect and support.