INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY - INTERNATIONAL

News: International Women's Day 2024: Theme, history, significance and more

 

What's in the news?

       Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th every year and represents the challenges women have encountered every day since the dawn of civilization.

 

International Women's Day:

       International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8 every year, marking a global day of recognition and celebration of women’s achievements across social, economic, cultural, and political arenas.

       The day also serves as a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

 

Theme:

       The theme for IWD 2024, “Invest in Women—Accelerate Progress,” underscores the critical role investment in women plays in driving progress in all areas of society.

 

Importance of the Theme:

       It strategically focuses on women’s inclusion in all spheres globally.

       It carries multifarious significance, promoting social justice, development, workforce participation, increased innovations, better decision-making, socio-economic equity, social change, and peaceful societies.

 

India's Progress:

       India has shown notable advancement, moving up from the 135th position in the 2022 WEF Gender Gap Report to the 127th position in its 2023 edition, signifying an enhanced ranking.

 

Go back to basics:

Key Facts About International Women’s Day:

       International Women’s Day has become a prominent global platform to honour and celebrate the achievements of women worldwide.

       International Women’s Day was officially recognised by the UN.

 

Date: March 8

 

Origin:

       Gained momentum after the Labour Movement in the early 20th century to raise voice for women’s rights.

 

Objective:

       To celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about gender equality, and highlight persisting challenges faced by women.

 

Theme:

       Each year, a different theme is chosen to address a specific aspect of gender equality.

 

Objectives of International Women’s Day Celebrations:

       Celebrate the achievements of women worldwide.

       Raise awareness about women’s rights and gender equality.

       Accelerate concrete efforts toward achieving gender parity.

       Inspire individuals, communities, and nations toward gender equality and women’s rights.

       Foster a sense of solidarity and unity among women globally.

 

Colours of International Women’s Day:

       As per its official website, Purple, Green, and White are the colors of IWD, representing Justice and Dignity, Hope, and Purity, respectively.

       Originally adopted by the Women’s Social and Political Union in the UK, these colors have become integral to IWD celebrations worldwide.