Celebrating Women Behind Bars on International Women's Day

On March 8th—International Women’s Day—Red Cross Activity after imprisonment in collaboration with Norweigian Correctional Service hosted a powerful event dedicated to celebrating and uplifting incarcerated women. This wasn’t just another gathering; it was a bold statement against stigma, isolation, and the crushing weight of a justice system that often forgets the humanity of the women within it.

Eileen Svendesen , Hege Konmerud and Laila Mjeldheim

The event, held at Røverkaffe in Oslo, marked a significant shift. While previous Rode Kors events for incarcerated women were held inside prison walls, this was the first to take place outside, allowing 70 women from different forms of incarceration—both from the women’s open prison and those serving house sentences—to come together in a space of dignity, empowerment, and community.

For women in prison, isolation isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and societal. They are often stripped of their identity as women, reduced only to their crimes. But this event aimed to rewrite that narrative. Here, they weren’t inmates. They were women—mothers, daughters, sisters—deserving of love, care, and celebration.

The statistics are harrowing: women in prison have the highest suicide rates compared to their male counterparts. Studies show that the combination of stigma, separation from family (especially children), and lack of rehabilitation programs contribute to these alarming numbers. Many experience profound shame, mental health struggles, and a sense of abandonment. This event was designed to combat exactly that—to remind these women that they are still part of society, still deserving of a future, and most importantly, still women.

The event was carefully curated with a lineup of speakers addressing crucial women’s issues—financial independence, reproductive health, and reintegration into society. One of the most impactful speakers was Behnaz Gani - from DNB, one of the largest banks in Norway, who emphasized the importance of financial freedom. She urged the women to start saving, no matter how small, to build a stable foundation for their future.

Beyond education, there was an undeniable atmosphere of joy and self-worth. Many companies and partners joined forces to contribute and donate gifts. Over 240 gift bags, including women’s products, were distributed to women at the event and to those behind bars who couldn’t attend. Each woman received self-care gifts—haircare, skincare, and reading materials—things many of them have limited access to due to financial and institutional restrictions. The simple act of receiving these items was a reminder that they are still worthy of care and indulgence.

Food and drinks were served, and the air was filled with music from a local group, adding to the warmth and celebration. The women laughed, danced, and, for a moment, they were free—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.

This event wasn’t just a one-time gesture—it was a step toward meaningful rehabilitation. Society tends to punish women in prison long after their sentences end, making reintegration nearly impossible. But rehabilitation must include dignity, education, and emotional support, not just discipline. These women need to be equipped to succeed once they reenter society, not cast aside as permanent outcasts.

The event was more than just a gathering; it was proof that change is possible. It was a reminder that these women are not forgotten, that they matter, and that they, too, deserve to celebrate International Women’s Day. In a world that so often isolates them, yesterday was a moment of connection, sisterhood, and hope.