On International Women's Day ( Saturday 8 March) Plaid Cymru MEP Jill Evans is calling for the appointment of an EU Women's Envoy to promote women's rights globally.

Women MEPs are calling for the appointment after the United Nations made clear that the struggle against hunger and poverty around the world will be lost unless women's rights are strengthened.

In their appeal for an EU Women's Envoy, the MEPs highlight the crucial role of women around the world in alleviating poverty, and the even greater contribution they could make if their rights were better defended and protected.

The Plaid Cymru MEP said:

"Women around the world would benefit from the appointment of an EU Women's Envoy to spearhead global campaigning for women's rights.

"The EU is the world's largest donor of development aid and has signed countless agreements which include commitments to defend and protect human rights.

"The appointment of a European envoy on women’s rights would make a difference. This senior diplomat could ensure that policy decisions are right for women. They could present proposals to the Council of Ministers and the European Commission and be held accountable by the European Parliament. They could spur on national governments to live up to their Millennium commitments. But most of all, they could ensure that Europe becomes accessible for women worldwide struggling to improve their social and economic situation and that of their community."