“For the last 13 years, Iceland has had the honour to be ranked the most gender equal country in the world. This achievement results from the tireless work of women to enact societal change. We have strong role models, such as the first democratically elected female president. And we reached a critical mass regarding women’s participation and empowerment, including through the work of us in the Women Alliance that shattered the glass ceiling in Parliament. However, this status also places great responsibility upon Iceland to continue to lead by example, uphold our standards, and not give in to the serious backlash against gender equality worldwide. We must stay alert, continue to take strategic actions of inclusion, promotion, and empowerment, and never compromise our values. Women’s rights are human rights.“