Gender equality is a fundamental pillar for development and international cooperation, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where women continue to face barriers in accessing culture, leadership and artistic creation. Institutions such as the United Nations and ASEAN have underlined the need to strengthen women's representation in all sectors, highlighting culture as an essential tool for social change and intercultural dialogue. Gender equality not only drives economic growth and social stability, but also strengthens democratic governance and the resilience of societies in the face of global challenges.

On the occasion of International Women's Day (March 8), from Casa Asia We are publishing a series of eight interviews with women from the Asian diaspora in Spain, whose personal and professional journeys are courageous, inspiring and transformative. You can now read the first ones in this special.

In parallel, from Casa Asia We have prepared a programme that highlights the creativity and talent of women in various artistic disciplines. Through a film cycle with films directed by women, a round table on contemporary Japanese writers, a meeting with the Chinese violinist Jing Liu and a dance performance with the Japanese dancer Kayoko Nakata. In addition, Laura Carrau's documentary on the drying up of the Aral Sea, one of the greatest ecological disasters on the planet, will be screened and a course on women in Mongolia will be taught. This programme seeks to promote cultural exchange and reaffirm the commitment to gender equality in the arts and knowledge.

Once again, we are presenting a series of eight interviews with women from the Asian diaspora in Spain, whose personal and professional careers stand out for their courage and capacity for transformation. The first interviews are already available, and throughout March we will publish the rest. In addition, you can check out the interviews from previous editions to discover more stories of inspiring women.