International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a global movement dedicated to honoring the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. Recognized by the United Nations and celebrated across cultures, IWD serves as both a celebration of progress and a call to action for continued efforts toward women's rights.

The History of International Women’s Day

The origins of International Women’s Day date back to the early 20th century, when women around the world began organizing for better working conditions, the right to vote, and equal opportunities.

  • 1908: 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay, and voting rights.

  • 1909: The first National Women’s Day was observed in the United States on February 28.

  • 1910: German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of an annual Women’s Day at the International Socialist Women’s Congress in Copenhagen.

  • 1911: The first official International Women’s Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.

  • 1975: The United Nations officially recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day, setting the stage for global advocacy.

  • Today: IWD is observed in over 100 countries, with governments, organizations, and individuals promoting gender equality initiatives worldwide.

The Significance of IWD

International Women’s Day is not just a celebration—it is a day of reflection, activism, and empowerment. It sheds light on pressing issues such as:

  • Equal access to education and employment

  • Representation in leadership and decision-making

  • The gender pay gap and workplace rights

  • Women’s health and reproductive rights

Each year, the United Nations selects a theme to highlight specific areas of progress and challenges. Themes in the past have included:
#BalanceforBetter (2019) – Promoting gender balance in all aspects of society
#EachforEqual (2020) – Encouraging collective responsibility for equality
#BreakTheBias (2022) – Challenging stereotypes and discrimination

How You Can Be Part of the Movement

This International Women’s Day Essay Contest is an opportunity for you to contribute to the global conversation. Through your words, you can challenge norms, share inspiring stories, and propose solutions that push society toward a more equitable future.

💡 Write. Speak. Act. Create Change.

Join the movement. Participate in the contest. Make your voice heard.