Smriti Irani Champions Gender Equity at Davos 2025

At the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos, Smriti Irani emphasized the critical role of gender equity in driving global economic growth, stating it could unlock trillions in GDP. Her discussions with leaders, including Singapore's President and Bill Gates, focused on integrating gender-responsive policies and empowering women entrepreneurs in global value chains. Meanwhile, in China, women comedians are finding their voice amid a crackdown on feminist activism, using humor to navigate societal pressures and redefine traditional roles. Despite the government's push for a return to 'traditional' female roles, the success of female-led comedies indicates a growing feminist presence in popular culture. In Kerala, CPM state secretary M V Govindan defended gender equality, criticizing those who oppose it and reinforcing that it is a fundamental principle of democratic revolutions. These narratives underscore a global conversation on women's rights, highlighting both the challenges and advancements in various cultural contexts.