Blogs | IGSS International Women’s Day 2025: Celebrating Progress & Empowering Change

International Women’s Day: Celebrating Progress, Empowering Change

Blog

Introduction 

 

It is celebrated on 8 March every year. It recognizes the achievements of women and acknowledges the contributions of women in all spheres of life. It is a day to celebrate women's strength and resilience, to promote gender equality, and to look back on the progress made in women's rights, while also looking forward to the work that remains to create a more inclusive world.

 

The History and Significance of this day 

 

It  was first celebrated in the early 1900s, when women all over the world demanded better working conditions, the right to vote, and gender equality. The first National Women’s Day in the United States was on February 28, 1909, when it was proposed by the Socialist Party of America. The idea spread, and in 1910 German activist Clara Zetkin proposed an International Women’s Day at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen. It was accepted unanimously, and the first official celebration took place on March 19, 1911, in several European countries. It was later moved to March 8 and officially recognized by the United Nations in 1977.

 

The Theme for this occasion 

 

Every year, the theme focuses on an important issue affecting women everywhere. The theme for 2025 is Accelerate action. It emphasizes the need to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and calls on individuals, communities, and organizations to take action to remove barriers and ensure that women from all walks of life have equal opportunities to succeed.

 

The Progress and Achievements of Women Globally

 

Women have made great achievements in many fields and have broken many barriers. Some of the major areas of progress include:

 

1. Political Representation 

  • More women are rising to political leadership positions around the world. 
  • New Zealand, Finland, and Iceland all have women at the top of their governments, and women are increasingly accepted as leaders. 
  • The election of female heads of state and increased parliamentary representation signal a trend toward gender parity in governance.

 

2. Economic Empowerment 

  • Women are more engaged in the labor force. - Organizations have adopted policies on equal pay, maternity leave, and women in leadership. 
  • More women are entrepreneurs, generating growth and innovation.

 

 3. Education and Literacy 

  • The education gap between women and men is shrinking, as more girls have access to school than ever before. 
  • Governments and NGOs continue to invest in educating women, because educating women boosts economic and social progress.

 

 4.STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Involvement 

  • Women have been underrepresented in STEM careers in the past, but their presence in science and technology is growing. 
  • Girls’ STEM education has helped increase the number of women working in STEM, and it will continue to do so in the future.

 

 5.Social and Cultural Recognition 

  • Women are now more visible in the arts, media, and entertainment. 
  • More women writers, filmmakers, and activists have told women's stories, and women’s voices are more common in our culture.

 

The Challenges That Still Persist

 

Even though women have made great strides, they still face obstacles that stand in the way of true equality. Key issues include:

 

1. Gender Pay Gap 

  • On average, women are paid less than men for the same work.
  •  This gender pay gap persists across industries and countries, highlighting the need for stricter equal pay policies and greater salary transparency.

 

2. Violence Against Women 

  • Gender-based violence is a serious problem worldwide.
  •  Far too many women are victims of domestic violence, sexual harassment and exploitation.
  •  We need stronger laws and awareness-raising campaigns to tackle these problems.

 

3. Limited Access to Leadership Roles 

  • Even though women are advancing in the workplace, there are still very few women in executive positions. 
  • Many companies exhibit gender bias which often limits the advancement of women in the corporate world.

 

 4. Health and Reproductive Rights 

  • Access to health care for women, especially reproductive rights, is controversial in many parts of the world. 
  • Ensuring women’s right to make informed health choices is key to achieving gender equality.

 

 How to Celebrate Women’s Day

 

People, organizations, and governments can observe International Women's Day in many different ways.

 

 1. Support Women-Owned Businesses 

  • Promoting women-owned enterprises is critical for stimulating economic growth and advancing gender equality.

 

2. Educate Yourself and Others 

  • Learn about women’s rights history and current issues. 
  • Have discussions at school, work, or at home about gender equality. 
  • Have a workshop or discussion at school, at work, or at home.

 

3. Advocate for Policy Changes 

  • Legislation and policies that advance gender equality, equal pay, and women’s safety create lasting change. 
  • Connect with your elected officials and campaigns to take action.

 

4. Attend or Organize Events 

  • From panels to marches, celebrating (or organizing)  it helps spread the word about gender issues and opens a dialogue.

 

5.Recognize and Appreciate Women Around You 

  • A simple act of gratitude, for co-workers, family members or friends, goes a long way to uplifting and empowering women.

 

The Role of Men in Gender Equality

 

Gender equality isn’t just women’s responsibility – it needs men, too. Men are key to supporting gender-inclusive policies, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for equal opportunities. Having healthy conversations about gender roles and biases leads to a more equitable society.

 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gender Equality

 

There is still a long way to go to achieve gender equality, but the progress made so far is encouraging. Through continued policy efforts, education and advocacy, we can build a world where women and men have equal opportunities to thrive. By working together, we can encourage inclusion, remove barriers and empower future generations of women.

 

Conclusion

 

This day  is a time to celebrate progress, look back at obstacles, and take action. Through advocacy, education, or small acts of recognition, everyone can make a difference. As we mark this day, let us remember that gender equality is not only about women; it is about building a fair and just society for all.

 

FAQs

 

1. What is International Women’s Day? 

 

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global day that celebrates women's social, economic, cultural and political achievements. It is also a call to action for gender equality and women's rights.

 

2. Why is International Women's Day on 8 March? 

 

International Women’s Day is on March 8 because that’s the date of a big day in women’s history. On March 8, 1908, thousands of women marched through New York City to protest unfair working conditions. They wanted to get better wages, shorter working hours, and the right to vote. March 8 was chosen to remember them for their courage and continue the fight for women’s rights all over the world.

It was chosen to commemorate a 1908 garment workers' strike in New York, in which women protested poor working conditions. In 1910, at the International Socialist Women's Congress, Clara Zetkin proposed an International Women's Day, which was observed by several countries.

 

3. What is the theme of International Women's Day 2025?

 

There is a different theme for IWD each year, which focuses on a key women's equality issue. Check the United Nations website or International Women's Day website for the current theme.

 

4. How is International Women’s Day celebrated? 

 

IWD is celebrated worldwide through:

- Public marches and rallies

- Conferences and panel discussions

- Educational and awareness campaigns

- Social media activism using hashtags like #IWD2025 and #EmbraceEquity

- Recognition of women’s contributions in workplaces and communities

 

5. Is International Women’s Day a public holiday? 

 

IWD is a public holiday in several countries, including Russia, China (for women only), Uganda and Vietnam, but is an official day in many other countries.

 

6. What color is International Women's Day?

 

International Women's Day is purple. Purple is a symbol of dignity and passion, and these words describe International Women's Day perfectly.

Purple is the official color of International Women's Day and represents justice and dignity. Green and white are sometimes used and represent hope and purity.

 

7. What can I do to celebrate International Women's Day? 

 

There are several ways you can celebrate International Women’s Day. First, you can attend an event or rally in your community that honors women and calls for gender equality. You can also support organizations that work to empower women and promote women’s rights. You can also talk about and share information about International Women’s Day on social media to spread awareness about the importance of the day. Last, you can volunteer or donate to causes that support women’s health and advancement.

You can participate by:

- Attending or organizing events that support gender equality

- Supporting women-led businesses and organizations

- Sharing stories and achievements of women on social media

Advocate for policies that promote gender equity in your community.

 

8. What’s the difference between International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month? 

 

International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month are both important events, but they’re focused on different things and take place at different times. International Women’s Day is observed on March 8 every year. The day recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women all over the world. Women’s History Month, which is observed in March in the U. S., takes place during a different month and celebrates women’s contributions to history. International Women’s Day is a single day, but Women’s History Month is an opportunity to celebrate women’s contributions in more depth over an entire month.

IWD is just one day (March 8) for celebrating women's achievements all over the world. Women's History Month (March, in countries like the U. S. and the U. K. ) celebrates women's historical contributions throughout the entire month.

 

9. How can businesses support International Women’s Day? 

 

Companies can celebrate IWD by:

- Hosting events or discussions on workplace gender equality

- Highlighting female employees and leaders

- Donating to women’s rights organizations

- Implementing diversity and inclusion policies

 

10. Where can I find official International Women’s Day events and resources?

 

You can find official International Women’s Day events and resources online. Check official websites, social media, and organizations dedicated to women’s rights and empowerment. These sites often list events, webinars, and resources to celebrate and support International Women’s Day.

You can also check out the official International Women’s Day website at www. internationalwomensday. com or check out local organizations, community groups, and social media to see what’s going on near you.