SHIMONA SHARMA
The North News
Chandigarh, March 7
International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8, has evolved into a global movement honoring women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality. Officially recognised by the United Nations in 1977, International Women’s Day originated from early 20th-century labour movements in North America and Europe. According to the United Nations, the choice of March 8 is closely tied to the women’s protests during the 1917 Russian Revolution.
The day has its roots in 1911, when German activist Clara Zetkin proposed an annual celebration, leading to its first observance in the USA and parts of Europe. The date March 8 was cemented in history when Russian women’s protests in 1917 led to Tsar Nicholas II’s abdication and women’s suffrage under the provisional government.
This year’s theme in India, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” emphasizes creating an inclusive future where no one is left behind. The focus is on empowering young women and girls as agents of change, marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark document promoting women’s rights.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of International Women’s Day, invited women to share their life stories on the NaMo App Open Forum. Selected women will take over his social media accounts on March 8 to amplify their voices. India, transitioning from women’s development to women-led development, has strengthened its legal and policy framework to promote gender equality. The Indian Constitution ensures gender equity through its Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles of State Policy, with specific articles addressing discrimination and promoting equal opportunities.
Recognized as a national holiday in several countries, the celebration takes diverse forms worldwide. Chinese women often enjoy a half-day off work, while Italy’s Festa della Donna features the gifting of mimosa blossoms. In Russia, flower sales surge, and in the United States, March is designated as Women’s History Month, highlighted by a presidential proclamation. New Zealand became the first self-governing country to grant women the right to vote, while in 1920, the Egyptian Society of Physicians launched a pioneering campaign against female genital mutilation, challenging long-standing traditions, according to United Nations.
As the world celebrates women’s achievements, the day also serves as a reminder of the work ahead to achieve true gender parity. Through marches, debates, concerts, and educational events, International Women’s Day continues to inspire change and advocate for women’s rights across cultural, political, and social spheres.
x
