International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. For the team at ESP, it also marks a call to action to accelerate gender equity.

It’s a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women, who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities. The improvement in access for women to opportunities such as education, sport, politics, and career have come a long way. In the past year, we have celebrated women in football; the bravery of Afghan women fleeing the Taliban to pursue an Olympic dream; the spike of women holding ministerial portfolios globally; the increase of female leaders in Pharma. We celebrate these achievements and now look forward to what else can be done.