Why is International Women’s Day Important? History, Significance & 2025 Theme

International Women’s Day (IWD) is observed every year on March 8 to celebrate the achievements of women and raise awareness about gender equality. It has been celebrated globally for over a century and serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against discrimination and injustice.

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How Did International Women’s Day Start?

The origins of IWD date back to 1908 when 15,000 women marched in New York City, demanding better wages, shorter work hours, and voting rights. In 1909, the Socialist Party of America declared a ‘National Women’s Day.’

In 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of making it an international event during the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen. The proposal was widely accepted, and the first International Women’s Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland in 1911. The United Nations officially recognized it in 1977.

Why is International Women’s Day Celebrated on March 8?

March 8 was chosen due to a significant event in Russia in 1917. Women workers protested for “bread and peace” during World War I, leading to the abdication of the Tsar and the granting of voting rights to women. This protest took place on February 23 in the Julian calendar, which corresponds to March 8 in the Gregorian calendar.

How is International Women’s Day Celebrated Worldwide?

IWD is a national holiday in many countries and is celebrated with events like:

• Marches and rallies for women’s rights
• Debates, concerts, and exhibitions
• Special recognition for women in various fields

Country-wise Celebrations:

• China: Women are given a half-day off.
• France: In 2024, abortion rights were added to the constitution on this day.
• Italy: The day is called “Festa della Donna,” and mimosa flowers are gifted.
• Russia: Flower sales double around IWD.
• United States: March is recognized as Women’s History Month.

Colors & Theme for International Women’s Day 2025

The official colors of IWD are purple, green, and white:

• Purple represents justice and dignity.
• Green symbolizes hope.
• White signifies purity.

The 2025 UN theme is “Rights, Equality, Empowerment for All Women and Girls.” The International Women’s Day website has also announced the theme #AccelerateAction to encourage people to support gender equality worldwide.

Why is International Women’s Day Still Needed?

Despite progress, gender inequality persists:

• A 50% increase in sexual violence cases was reported in 2023.
• 119 million girls are out of school worldwide (UNICEF).
• Women have only two-thirds of the legal rights compared to men (World Bank Report 2024).
• One in five women aged 20-24 was married before 18 in 2023.
• Over 51,100 women and girls were murdered by family members in 2023.

What About International Men’s Day?

International Men’s Day is observed on November 19 in over 80 countries. While not recognized by the UN, it promotes men’s well-being and highlights positive role models. It aims to raise awareness of men’s mental health, societal contributions, and gender-specific issues.

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