International Women’s Day

As we look into the future, we aim to see a world where gender equality is the norm and not the exception. A world where women are not held back by societal norms, stereotypes and discrimination. A world where women are truly equal partners in shaping the future. On this International Women's Day, let us come together to honor the women who have fought for our rights, celebrate the progress we have made and renew our commitment towards creating a more equitable and just society for all women. Let's make every day a Women's Day.

Women predominate in the world's food production, with estimates showing that they make up between 50-80% of food producers.; Image Source: Hindustan Times

International Women's Day (IWD) has a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. The movement for women's suffrage, which began in New Zealand, inspired the creation of IWD. Initially, it was organised by the Socialist Party of America in New York City on February 28, 1909. This event inspired German delegates at the 1910 International Socialist Women's Conference to propose the annual observance of a "special Women's Day". The following year saw the first demonstrations and commemorations of International Women's Day across Europe.

After women gained suffrage in Soviet Russia in 1917, IWD was made a national holiday on March 8, and it was subsequently celebrated on that date by the socialist movement and communist countries. The holiday was associated with far-left movements and governments until its adoption by the global feminist movement in the late 1960s. In 1977, IWD was adopted by the United Nations and became a mainstream global holiday. Today, it is celebrated annually on March 8th and is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women and recognize the ongoing struggles for gender equality. The theme for each year is chosen by the United Nations and is meant to draw attention to specific issues related to gender equality and the empowerment of women.

The theme for International Women's Day 2023 is "DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality." This theme highlights the importance of innovation and technology in driving progress towards gender equality. The digital age has brought about many opportunities and advancements, but it has also highlighted the existing gender disparities in access to resources and opportunities in the tech industry. Women are underrepresented in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and face discrimination and bias in the industry. The DigitALL theme focuses on using technology to close the gender gap in education, employment, and information access. This includes providing girls and women with access to digital literacy education and training, and creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in the tech industry.

International Women's Day celebrates the achievements of women and honours their strength and resilience in fighting for centuries for their rights to vote, work, receive equal pay, and receive education, while also recognizing the ongoing struggles for gender equality. As we reflect on the progress that has been made, we must also acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. Women continue to face discrimination and inequality in the workplace, in politics, and society as a whole. The UN has taken several initiatives for International Women's Day, including the UN Women's Empowerment Principles, HeForShe, and UNiTE to End Violence Against Women. These initiatives aim to promote gender equality and empower women, by advocating for women's rights, promoting gender-sensitive policies, and working towards ending violence against women. Studies have shown that when women can participate fully in the economy, the entire community prospers.

This day is a reminder of the struggles that women have faced and continue to face in their quest for equality. It is a reminder that, although progress has been made, the fight for gender equality is far from over. Women around the world still face discrimination and inequality in all areas of their lives. We must continue to work towards a more equal and just society, not just on International Women's Day but every day, by fighting for equal rights and opportunities for women and breaking down societal norms and stereotypes that hold them back. Let us honour the sacrifices of those who fought for women's rights and pledge to continue their legacy by working towards a future where women are truly equal partners in shaping the world.

International Women's Day took place for the first time on March 8, 1911; Image Source: Penn Today)