Hope Nwosu, a Nigerian writer based in Helsinki, Finland, recently attended the annual Gender Equality Days event, held for the tenth time this year. The event, focused on the theme “Change,” was organized to address critical issues surrounding gender equality, including the persistent wage gap and violence against women. The occasion kicked off with a powerful speech by Finland’s Minister for Gender Equality, Sanni Grahn-Laasonen, who emphasized the importance of closing salary disparities and tackling gender-based violence.
Reflecting on the discussions, Nwosu shared her key takeaways, which included the reaffirmation that “women’s rights are human rights.” She also stressed the significance of intersectionality in addressing gender issues and highlighted the unchanged reality of violence against women, noting that it remains as prevalent as it was three decades ago. Nwosu further pointed out that gender equality should be a shared responsibility, urging the inclusion of men and boys in efforts to combat inequality
She also discussed how poverty threatens gender equality, particularly for immigrant women, those with physical disabilities, and single-parent families. Nwosu emphasized that poverty can perpetuate generational cycles, forcing women into difficult choices and dependency on social services. “Empowerment is the key,” she concluded, calling for stronger initiatives to integrate and support immigrant women in Finland’s workforce and society.
In addition to her reflections on gender equality, Nwosu also shared her excitement for the upcoming Integration 2024 event in Turku, Finland. This will be her first time attending the renowned event after following it from afar. She will participate in the elevator speech competition, presenting her topic on “Two-way Integration for a Smoother Integration” at Teatro from 12:00 to 13:30. Following that, she will be at the City of Vantaa stand from 14:00, alongside colleagues, to promote Vantaa as a prime location to live and work in Finland.
Looking ahead, Nwosu expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to hear insightful speeches and engage with both familiar and new faces at the Integration event.
