Understanding International Women’s Day
The history of Women’s Day traces back to the early 20th century, during a time when women were campaigning for better working conditions, voting rights, and equal pay. International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on 8 March to honour the achievements of women worldwide and to highlight the ongoing fight for gender equality. The first National Women’s Day was celebrated in the United States on 28 February 1909, and in 1910, Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of an annual international day to promote women’s rights.
Current Celebrations and Themes
This year, thousands marched in London for International Women’s Day 2026, which carries the theme #GivetoGain. The theme emphasizes the power of reciprocity and collective support, aiming to unite individuals in the fight for gender equality. The Million Women Rise coalition, which advocates to end all forms of violence against women and girls, played a significant role in organizing these events.
Voices from the March
During the celebrations, participants expressed their determination and hope for a better future. One participant, Naima, shared her aspirations for her daughter, stating, “I hope for my daughter that in our lifetime we’ll live in a world where women everywhere are free.” Another attendee emphasized the urgency of the cause, declaring, “Women got the power” and adding a powerful chant, “Say it once, say it again–no excuse for violent men.”
Reflections on the Significance of IWD
Rimaz Ahmed, a speaker at the event, highlighted the dual nature of International Women’s Day, stating, “IWD is not only a celebration. It is also a reminder that if we don’t continue to fight for our rights, then the far right and racist and sexist political parties will roll them back.” This sentiment resonates with many as they reflect on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead.
Looking Ahead
International Women’s Day serves as a platform to highlight the achievements of women while addressing challenges such as gender discrimination and pay gaps. Observers anticipate that the momentum from this year’s events will lead to increased awareness and action towards achieving gender equality in various sectors.
As the world observes International Women’s Day, the commitment to advocate for women’s rights remains strong, with many calling for continued efforts to address systemic issues that affect women globally. The collective voices and actions from this year’s celebrations are expected to inspire further movements and discussions in the coming months.