International Women's Day
Celebrating women's achievements and accelerating gender equality.
About
International Women's Day (IWD) is a global holiday held on March 8 each year celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Campaigns with themes like #BreakTheBias and #EmbraceEquity draw millions of participants worldwide.
History
The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909. The following year, an International Conference of Working Women proposed an annual international day. March 8 was formally adopted after thousands of women marched in Russia in 1917, demanding an end to World War I. The United Nations officially recognized IWD in 1977.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
IWD in the US amplifies ongoing campaigns for equal pay, reproductive rights, and representation in corporate leadership. Major marches, corporate DEI events, and social media campaigns (#BreakTheBias) dominate the day.
KR South Korea
South Korea has one of the highest gender pay gaps in the OECD. IWD spurs public debate on workplace discrimination, the 'career break' phenomenon among women who leave work after childbirth, and the rise of feminist movements.
JP Japan
Japan's IWD discourse centres on 'womenomics' — the economic case for female participation — and the persistent underrepresentation of women in corporate management and politics, despite government targets.
How to Participate
- 01Attend or organize a local IWD event or march
- 02Highlight and amplify women's voices on social media
- 03Read books or watch films by women creators
- 04Support women-owned businesses
Frequently asked questions
When is International Women's Day?+
International Women's Day is observed annually on March 8. The date is fixed each year — March 8 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is International Women's Day?+
International Women's Day (IWD) is a global holiday held on March 8 each year celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Campaigns with themes like #BreakTheBias and #EmbraceEquity draw millions of p…
Is International Women's Day a public holiday?+
International Women's Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in International Women's Day?+
Attend or organize a local IWD event or march Highlight and amplify women's voices on social media Read books or watch films by women creators These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe International Women's Day?+
Global — recognized in over 100 countries.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2027 and never miss International Women's Day.