On the occasion of the celebration of International Women’s Rights Day on March 8, 2026, Nadiany Gbagbo launched a new social initiative called “Action Agir pour les libertés”. The ceremony, which also featured the presentation of her book Manuel d’espoir au-delà des bras longs, was held under the theme: “Economic empowerment of women and marginalized girls.”

In her opening remarks, Marthe Dako, chair of the organizing committee, stated that the day aimed to celebrate “the political courage and economic determination of women” while highlighting their resilience in the face of challenges. She explained that the event marked the official launch of the “Action Agir pour les libertés” project, an initiative designed to support women and young girls facing various forms of marginalization.

According to her, the gathering also served as a moment of reflection and mobilization around economic empowerment, considered a key lever for women’s participation in social and political development.

Speaking at the event, Nadiany Gbagbo clarified that “Action Agir pour les libertés” is neither a political movement nor a women’s association, but rather the starting point of a social project. She noted that the concept was inspired by a text written by Laurent Gbagbo during his exile in France.

The title was later used as a preface to the government program of the Front Populaire Ivoirien before being adopted for a book compiling several of his articles.

“I chose this title to launch the initiative because the concept of freedom is fundamental to me,” she explained, adding that freedom, in her view, encompasses education, training, courage, financial autonomy, and hope.

At the heart of the initiative is the ERE program (Hope – Resilience – Entrepreneurship), presented as the first concrete action of the project. According to Nadiany Gbagbo, the program aims to help women and young girls overcome obstacles related to political stigmatization, strengthen their project management skills, and provide training in economic and financial management, particularly in the areas of microfinance, cooperatives, and micro-insurance. It also seeks to create a network of solidarity and mentorship.

Initially, the program targets women involved in the Parti des peuples africains – Côte d’Ivoire, before eventually opening up to women from other political groups, according to the project initiator.

“Many politically engaged women still face stigmatization and marginalization, which hinders their economic empowerment,” she stated.

During her speech, the wife of former President Laurent Gbagbo also denounced certain practices that, according to her, discourage women’s political engagement within the opposition. She claimed that some female activists may lose their jobs or be excluded from economic opportunities because of their political convictions.

“It is inconsistent to encourage women to engage in politics while penalizing them for doing so,” she argued, calling for a more inclusive and equitable environment.

The ceremony also featured the book signing of Nadiany Gbagbo’s first publication, titled Manuel d’espoir au-delà des bras longs. Presented as a collective work produced with contributions from religious leaders, experts, and friends, the book is intended as a guide for women and young girls seeking to start entrepreneurial activities even in difficult circumstances.

“This book is not a panacea, but some will find in it tools to start a business, even when everyone tells them it is impossible,” she said.

Taking advantage of the platform offered by International Women’s Rights Day, the project initiator called on institutions, partners, and civil society organizations to support the initiative.

“Supporting women who are sidelined because of their political choices means supporting a more just and inclusive society,” she insisted.

Nadiany Gbagbo concluded by expressing hope that the program would help strengthen women’s economic autonomy and leadership so that they can defend their convictions without fearing economic or social consequences.