Celebrating our 2022 International Women of Courage

March 8, 2022


Courageous women create and inspire a better world, and the United States is a champion of gender equity and equality and the empowerment of women and girls, in all their diversity. In every country, women and girls experience specific challenges holding them back from full and meaningful participation in society. Governments that fail to treat women equally, and respect their human rights, keep their societies from reaching their full potential. Ensuring that all people, regardless of their gender identity or expression, can achieve their full potential is both a moral and strategic imperative.

The 16th annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) ceremony will recognize 12 women for demonstrating exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equity and equality, and the empowerment of women and girls, often at great personal risk. Following the ceremony, the awardees participate in a virtual International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program, to connect with their American counterparts and strengthen the global network of women leaders.

Facia Boyenoh Harris of Liberia is one of twelve women being honored at the 2022 International Women of Courage ceremony.

As of 2022, the United States has recognized more than 170 International Women of Courage from over 80 countries. These recipients have dedicated their lives and careers to the betterment of their communities and to addressing the enormous challenges women and girls face in their daily lives. 

Click here for more information on the 2022 International Women of Courage award. Follow along on social media with #IWOC2022 and #WomenOfCourage.