Issue of the day: International Women’s Day

SUNDAY marks International Women’s Day (IWD), a global celebration of the social, political, cultural and economic achievements of women, as well as an international call for gender equality. Events are held promoting and championing women, their ideas and achievements as well as drawing attention to areas that need more attention.

In existence for more than a century the day became officially recognised by the United Nations in 1975, during International Women’s Year.

When did IWD start?

The roots of the day can be traced back to 1908, when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding voting rights, better pay and shorter working hours. The following year, the first National Woman’s Day was observed in the US on February 28.

The first international celebration was in 1911, after Clara Zetkin – leader of the ‘women’s office’ for the Social Democratic Party in Germany – suggested every country celebrate women and their push for parity annually.

Is there a different theme every year?

Since the UN recognised the day in 1975, there has been an annual theme. The 2020 campaign is #Eachforequal, which raises the issue of gender equality. The idea is drawn from the notion of “collective individualism” in which individual actions, conversations, behaviours and mindsets can have an impact on society.

Why do we need IWD?

Because the original aim to achieve gender equality has not yet been met. A gender pay gap still exists across the globe – according to the World Economic Forum, the gender gap won’t close until 2186 – and women are not represented in equal numbers in many spheres including business and politics. Women’s health and education are still lacking in many countries, while violence against women continues to be rife.

Is there an International Men’s Day?

How about every day? But seriously, men of the world are celebrated on November 19 in more than 60 countries, including the UK. Objectives include focusing on men’s and boy’s health, improving gender relations, and highlighting positive male role models.

How is IWD being celebrated around the world?

In London, the Women of the World Festival returns to explore the state of gender equality and celebrate women and girls across the globe.

Guests including Naomi Wolf, Scarlett Curtis and Sandi Toksvig will give talks during the three-day event.

Edinburgh-based feminist magazine, Womanbeing, is hosting an interdisciplinary conference on gender studies and the status of women at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh.

The Womanbeing Festival will feature talks, workshops and networking to “showcase diverse female role models to inspire women and girls to view entrepreneurship as a career option”.