What is International Women's Day?

International Women's Day on 8 March is a global day recognising the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, and calling for accelerated progress toward gender equality. The day has its roots in the early 20th century labour movement: the first National Women's Day was observed in the United States on 28 February 1909, organised by the Socialist Party of America.

The date of 8 March was established at the 1910 International Socialist Women's Conference in Copenhagen, proposed by German activist Clara Zetkin. The day gained global momentum after thousands of Russian women marched on 8 March 1917 (Julian calendar: 23 February) demanding bread and peace during World War I — a march that contributed to the Russian Revolution. The United Nations officially adopted International Women's Day in 1975.

Today IWD is marked by events ranging from political marches and rallies to workplace seminars, school programmes, and cultural celebrations. Each year carries a theme set by the UN; recent themes have focused on digital inclusion, climate resilience, and economic empowerment. The day is a public holiday in over 27 countries, including Russia, China, Vietnam, Cuba, Armenia, and several African and Central Asian states.