March 8 – International Women’s Day: A Global Call for Equality and Women’s Rights

Recognized by the United Nations (UN), International Women’s Day aims to raise awareness about women's rights, promote gender equality, and celebrate the social, economic, and political achievements of women worldwide. This significant day also serves as a key milestone in the global women's rights movement.

Origins of International Women’s Day

The history of March 8 dates back to 1908, when 15,000 female textile workers in New York marched for better working conditions, fair wages, and the right to vote.

In 1910, Danish socialist leader Clara Zetkin proposed that March 8 be recognized as International Women’s Day, emphasizing the need for gender equality and women’s rights. Following this proposal, the first international celebrations took place in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland in 1911.

In 1977, the United Nations officially recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day, and since then, it has been observed annually with different themes.

Why March 8?

There are several theories regarding why March 8 was chosen as International Women’s Day:

• 1917 February Revolution in Russia: Women workers' strikes and protests on March 8 played a crucial role in triggering the end of the Tsarist regime.
• New York Women’s Labor Movement (1908): Socialist women workers held a major demonstration advocating for union rights and suffrage.
• Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire (1911): This tragic event in New York shed light on the harsh working conditions of women and became a symbol of labor rights activism.

According to the United Nations, the 1917 women’s strikes in Russia were a decisive factor in designating March 8 as International Women’s Day.

International Women’s Day in Türkiye

In Türkiye, International Women’s Day was first observed in 1921 through the efforts of Rahime Selimova and Cemile Nuşirvanova. However, official celebrations were not widely permitted for many years.

In 1975, with the UN’s “Decade for Women” initiative, awareness of women’s rights increased, and the Women’s Year Congress was organized in Türkiye. From that point onward, March 8 has been recognized and widely celebrated throughout the country.

International Women’s Day 2025 Theme

For 2025, the United Nations has announced the official theme for International Women’s Day as:

"For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment."
"Accelerate Action"

The UN encourages people worldwide to raise awareness and share messages of solidarity using the hashtags #IWD2025 and #AccelerateAction.

A More Equal Future for Women’s Rights

International Women’s Day is not only a celebration of women’s accomplishments but also a reminder that the fight for gender equality and women’s empowerment must continue.

Let’s support women’s rights and work together for a more just, equal, and empowered world!