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About International Women's Day

International Women's Day (IWD), observed annually on March 8, is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also serves as a call to action for accelerating gender equality and raising awareness of issues such as gender-based violence, the pay gap, and underrepresentation in leadership.

The day is recognised by the United Nations and is a public holiday in more than 25 countries, including Russia, China, Vietnam, and many African nations. Each year, the UN designates a theme to focus global attention on a particular aspect of women's rights and empowerment.

International Women's Day is celebrated by individuals, communities, businesses, and governments alike. It is a day to honour women's contributions to society, reflect on progress made, and renew commitments to achieving full gender parity.

History & Origins

The roots of International Women's Day trace back to the early 20th-century labour and suffrage movements. In 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and the right to vote. In 1910, Clara Zetkin, a German socialist, proposed the idea of an international day for women at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen. The following year, IWD was observed for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with over a million people attending rallies.

In 1917, women in Russia went on strike for "bread and peace" on March 8 (February 23 on the Julian calendar then in use), an event that helped spark the Russian Revolution. After women gained the right to vote in Russia, March 8 was declared a national holiday. The United Nations began celebrating IWD in 1975, and it has since grown into a truly global observance that transcends political and cultural boundaries.

How It's Celebrated

• Rallies & marches — Public demonstrations for women's rights take place in cities around the world, often focusing on issues like equal pay, reproductive rights, and ending gender-based violence.
• Awards & recognition — Organisations honour women's achievements in business, science, the arts, and public life through ceremonies, awards, and media spotlights.
• Gifting flowers — In countries such as Russia, Italy, and the Balkans, it is customary to give women flowers — especially mimosa blossoms — on March 8.
• Workplace events — Many companies host panels, workshops, and networking events focused on diversity, inclusion, and women's professional development.
• Purple, green & white — The official IWD colours symbolise justice and dignity (purple), hope (green), and purity (white), originating from the Women's Social and Political Union in the UK.
• Social media campaigns — Hashtags and digital campaigns raise awareness and amplify women's voices on issues that matter globally.