Girls Speak to the EU

Young women around the world share their realities and call on the EU to act.

20 March 2026

For International Women’s Day 2026, Plan International EU put the voices of girls and young women at the forefront. Through this series, young women from 4 different countries highlight the challenges they face and call on the European Union to advance their rights through its policies and external action.

Girls participating in a Plan International empowerment project raise their fists in a gesture of confidence and solidarity. — Girls in Zimbabwe come together to challenge harmful traditions and reclaim their futures /Photo Credits: Plan International

Listening to girls matters

Girls and young women around the world continue to face structural barriers that limit their access to education, safety, health, and economic opportunities. Too often, their voices are missing from the decisions that shape their lives. From period poverty and online exploitation to discrimination faced by girls with disabilities, these challenges are interconnected and persistent. As a global actor, the European Union has a key role to play in addressing these inequalities through its policies, partnerships, and external action.

Portrait of a female youth advocate speaking at a conference.

Breaking Barriers: Expanding Opportunities for Women with Disabilities

Livania – Timor-Leste
Exploring how inclusive economic initiatives can empower women with disabilities.

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Portrait of a female global young influencer speaking at a conference.

Why I Object: When Period Poverty Threatens Girls’ Education

Joselyne – Rwanda
A call to end stigma and ensure girls can stay in school during menstruation.

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Speaking Out Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation

Joselyne – Rwanda
A call to end stigma and ensure girls can stay in school during menstruation.
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Speaking Out Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation

Joselyne – Rwanda
A call to end stigma and ensure girls can stay in school during menstruation.

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Across these stories, one message is clear: girls and young women must be at the centre of decisions that affect their lives. From education to digital safety, the European Union has a critical role to play in advancing their rights through its external action, funding, and global leadership.

Categories: Campaigns Tags: girls' leadership