International Women's Day

What Is International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global observance held annually on 8 March, dedicated to celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also functions as a powerful call to action for advancing gender equality. It is a day for acknowledging progress made, advocating for further change, and recognising the significant contributions women make to society worldwide.

The observance of International Women’s Day can encompass a wide range of activities, from political demonstrations and marches for women’s rights to conferences, educational initiatives, and celebratory events highlighting women’s accomplishments. Its global reach underscores the universal importance of gender equality.

While widely celebrated, the public holiday status of International Women’s Day varies significantly across different countries. In some nations, it is a designated day off work, while in others, it is observed through events and recognition without being a statutory holiday.

History and Origins of International Women’s Day

The origins of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century amidst industrialisation, labour movements, and the burgeoning suffrage campaigns in North America and Europe. The first National Woman’s Day was observed in the United States on 28 February 1909, organised by the Socialist Party of America in honour of the 1908 garment workers’ strike in New York, where women protested against harsh working conditions.

In 1910, at the second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin, a leader of the ‘Women’s Office’ for the Social Democratic Party in Germany, proposed the idea of an International Women’s Day. She suggested that every year in every country there should be a celebration on the same day – a Women’s Day – to press for their demands. The proposal was unanimously approved by over 100 women from 17 countries, representing trade unions, socialist parties, and women’s clubs, including the first three women elected to the Finnish Parliament.

The first International Women’s Day was observed on 19 March 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with rallies attended by more than one million people. They demanded women’s right to work, vocational training, and an end to discrimination on the job. Following a devastating factory fire in New York later that month, which killed over 140 working women, the focus on women’s working conditions became more urgent. The date of 8 March became established after women textile workers in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg), Russia, began a strike on 8 March 1917 (23 February in the Julian calendar), demanding “Bread and Peace.” This strike is often credited as one of the catalysts for the Russian Revolution. Following the Russian Revolution, Women’s Day was declared a national holiday in Russia.

The United Nations officially recognised International Women’s Day in 1977, transforming it into a mainstream global observance. Each year, the UN designates a specific theme for International Women’s Day, focusing on a particular aspect of gender equality or women’s empowerment.

How International Women’s Day Is Celebrated

International Women’s Day is celebrated in diverse ways across the globe, reflecting different cultural contexts and national priorities regarding gender equality. Celebrations often involve a mix of political action, educational events, and social gatherings.

Global Observances

Globally, common activities include organised marches and rallies advocating for women’s rights, gender equality, and an end to discrimination and violence against women. Conferences and seminars are frequently held to discuss progress, challenges, and future strategies for women’s empowerment. Many organisations, governments, and educational institutions use the day to launch new initiatives or campaigns focused on women’s issues. It is also a day for acknowledging and celebrating women’s achievements in various fields, with awards ceremonies and public recognition events.

Observance in Specific Countries

The level and nature of observance, including its status as a public holiday, differ significantly by country.

Uganda

In Uganda, International Women’s Day on 8 March is a public holiday. This means government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed. The day is often marked by official ceremonies, speeches from political leaders, and public discussions focusing on the progress of women in Uganda and the challenges that remain. Local communities and women’s groups frequently organise events such as rallies, workshops, and cultural performances to raise awareness and celebrate women’s contributions to national development.

Gabon

In Gabon, while International Women’s Day on 8 March is observed, it is not a public holiday. However, Gabon notably observes National Women’s Day on 17 April, which is a public holiday. On this day, Gabonese women are celebrated for their role in society, and various events, including parades, cultural activities, and discussions on women’s rights and development, take place. The existence of a distinct National Women’s Day as a public holiday highlights a particular national focus on women’s issues separate from the international observance.

Nigeria

In Nigeria, International Women’s Day on 8 March is widely observed but is not a public holiday. Activities typically include advocacy campaigns, conferences, and seminars organised by women’s rights groups, civil society organisations, and educational institutions. These events often focus on issues pertinent to Nigerian women, such as political participation, economic empowerment, health, and combating gender-based violence. Media outlets also play a significant role in raising awareness through special reports and programming.

Taiwan

In Taiwan, Women’s Day (婦女節) is observed on 8 March. While it is recognised and celebrated, it is not a public holiday. Historically, it was a public holiday in Taiwan until 1994, when it was converted into a memorial day. Today, celebrations often involve various activities and special promotions by businesses, particularly those aimed at women. Organisations may host events, and the government often releases statements or initiatives related to gender equality. The day serves as an occasion to appreciate women and discuss their societal roles and rights.

When Is International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day is observed annually on a fixed date: 8 March. This date was solidified after 1917, particularly following the women’s strike in Petrograd which occurred on 23 February in the Julian calendar, corresponding to 8 March in the Gregorian calendar. Since then, 8 March has remained the consistent date for global observance, unaffected by lunar cycles or variable calendars.

International Women’s Day Key Facts