The International Young Christian Workers (IYCW) joins the global community in commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This day stands as a collective call to action, a moment to reflect on the persistent injustices faced by women and girls worldwide and to renew our shared responsibility to defend equality, dignity, and peace. Violence against women is a social and human rights crisis that undermines the very foundation of justice and humanity, and as such must be critically addressed.

José Calatayud Velasco

Dear José, just a few weeks ago, you were at the IYCW office, with many stories to share as always, … a true living archive of our movement. After five hours of training for the team and the new secretary general, the shy and sincere smile remained on your face! We were tired but you seemed full of energy and motivation!

“Well, I'm retired... if you need me, I'm here to support you,” you said.

PUBLIC STATEMENT

Ladies and gentlemen, representatives of the diplomatic corps, delegates, representatives of European and Belgian institutions, partners from social, trade union, and community organizations:

It is an honor to present the result of a collective process of discussion and democratic construction that dates back to initiatives carried out in 2015 and continued in 2023. Also, since August of this year, we have been promoting a series of conferences with the aim of updating our reflections and proposals in preparation for the CELAC-EU Summit in 2025.

In Guatemala, the YCW has launched an action campaign aimed at providing and securing economic opportunities for a group of young women who are members of or in contact with the movement. Their lives are marked by a series of obstacles that prevent them from achieving a better quality of life.

The IYCW greets all the social organizations and movements, trade unions, and governmental institutions present here today. This meeting represents a unique opportunity for society as a whole, and especially for people in situations of migration or exile.