The celebration of International Women's Day (IWD) honours women's contributions to society, the economy, culture, and politics as well as their ongoing struggle for gender equality. As we observe the 110th anniversary of International Women's Day this year, it is crucial to reflect on its goals and reiterate their significance in light of the current challenges and opportunities facing women all around the world. We will look at some of the main issues and concepts that drive IWD in this article and provide recommendations for how we could reframe and redefine this key event in light of the current situation.


Introduction


IWD is a day that millions of women and men throughout the world hold dear to their hearts and minds. This day celebrates the bravery, grit, and successes of women while also reaffirming our dedication to advancing their rights and dignity. Yet, International Women's Day is also a day to reflect on the ongoing challenges and impediments that women face in their daily lives and to call for action from all quarters to eliminate them.


History of International Women's Day

The beginnings of IWD may be dated to the early 20th century, when women started to unite and struggle for their rights in many nations. On March 8, 1911, Germany, Austria, Denmark, and Switzerland observed the inaugural International Women's Day (IWD) to increase public awareness of concerns impacting women's lives, such as women's suffrage, working conditions, and other issues. International Women's Day (IWD), which has grown over the years into a worldwide celebration, attracts millions of people to rallies, marches, conferences, and other events to promote gender equality and women's empowerment.


Themes and Issues of International Women's Day

IWD is a thorough celebration that addresses a wide range of issues and subjects relating to women's rights and well-being. Some of the main issues and issues that are usually linked to IWD include the following:


  • Fairness and gender equality
  • Women's empowerment and leadership
  • Violence against women and girls
  • Women's health and wellbeing
  • Women's economic participation and access to resources
  • Women's rights and legal protections


Rethinking the Meaning of International Women's Day


IWD is still a big and meaningful holiday, but some people worry that over time, its meaning and purpose may have been lost or diminished. For instance, some detractors contend that IWD has been commodified and commercialised, with businesses and brands exploiting it as a tool for marketing rather than as a platform for social change. Some claim that IWD has shifted too much away from tangible measures and policies that deal with the underlying causes of gender inequality and towards symbolic gestures and rhetoric.


We need to rethink and reposition the event in a number of ways in order to combat these tendencies and revive IWD's spirit and goals. First and foremost, we must advocate for significant legislative changes and institutional reforms that advance gender equality and women's rights in order to shift the focus from tokenism to transformation. For instance, this might entail pushing for equal pay, better working conditions, and increased access for women to healthcare and education.


By acknowledging and appreciating the achievements and experiences of women from all origins and identities, we may encourage more inclusiveness and diversity within the IWD movement. This might entail, for example, showcasing the triumphs and hardships of women from disadvantaged populations, such as Indigenous women, women with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ women.


Thirdly, we need to harness the power of technology and social media to amplify the voices and stories of women, and to create more opportunities for women to connect, and network.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Women


The COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on women, exacerbating existing gender inequalities and creating new challenges for women around the world. Women have been on the frontlines of the pandemic response, working as healthcare professionals, caregivers, and essential workers. At the same time, however, women have also borne the brunt of the economic and social fallout of the pandemic, facing increased rates of unemployment, poverty, and domestic violence. As we reflect on the meaning of IWD in the context of the pandemic, it is essential to acknowledge and address these intersecting challenges and to advocate for policies and programs that support women's recovery and resilience.


The Role of Men in International Women's Day


While International Women's Day is largely a celebration of women's activity and accomplishments, it is also a chance for men to consider how they may better support women's rights and gender equality. Men may make a significant difference by opposing negative gender stereotypes and conventions, encouraging inclusive and diverse workplaces, and supporting laws and initiatives that assist the economic and social empowerment of women. Men may show their dedication to establishing a more fair and equitable society for all by actively participating in IWD and other gender equality efforts.


Looking Ahead: The Future of International Women's Day


IWD's future presents both possibilities and problems that need to be taken into account. On the one hand, the ongoing pandemic and other world crises pose a danger to the advancement of gender equality and the potential to widen existing disparities. Nonetheless, the heightened attention being paid to social justice and human rights in the aftermath of current events presents an opportunity to mobilise public support for women's rights and quicken the process of achieving gender equality. We can build a better and more equal future for all if we reevaluate and reclaim the meaning of IWD and work together to address the critical issues affecting women and girls everywhere.