Capital markets in Sarajevo join global 'Ring the bell for gender equality' initiative

Operating under the theme "Rights, Equality, Action. For all women and girls," the initiative urges capital markets to improve transparency and accountability while creating incentives that support women's rights. Jo-Anne Bishop, UN Women Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, noted that the symbolic ringing of the bell serves as a collective call to use data, governance, and investment to foster more inclusive economic development.

"Economic rights are at the core of achieving gender equality," Bishop stated, emphasizing that equal access to finance and leadership is an economic necessity rather than just a social issue. Armin Ridzalovic, Head of the IFC Office for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, reinforced this by stating that companies offering equal opportunities are demonstrably stronger, more resilient, and more successful.

The initiative, held in over 110 countries worldwide, saw a unified front in Bosnia and Herzegovina this year. Participating domestic and international entities included the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Sarajevo and Banja Luka Stock Exchanges, CETEOR, Advantis Broker, and Women on Boards Adria, all focusing on ensuring equal access to capital markets for women.