International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is a global event celebrating and recognising the achievements of women.

From the moment they’re born, women and girls face injustice and denial of their rights. Globally, women are paid on average 24% less than men, and one in three women worldwide will experience violence in their lifetime, most likely at the hands of someone they know.

That’s why ActionAid supports and campaigns with women and girls living in some of the world’s poorest places as they challenge the root causes of poverty and injustice.

This International Women’s Day, find out how you can join us to celebrate women and girls around the world.

What is International Women's Day?

International Women's Day is observed in many countries to highlight and champion the rights of women and girls everywhere.

When is International Women's Day 2022 taking place?

International Women’s Day 2022 is on Tuesday, 8th March.

What is the theme of International Women's Day 2022?

The theme of International Women's Day 2022 is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”. It recognises women's contribution in responding to the climate change crisis and working to strengthen the resilience of their communities.

Why do we celebrate it?

International Women's Day is celebrated in different ways around the world. In some countries, it’s marked as a public holiday, while in others it is celebrated in combination with Mother’s Day.

At ActionAid, we understand that women and girls can have less social, economic, and political power compared to men. Gender inequality is the root cause of women’s rights abuses and we help women and girls to claim their rights.

We also celebrate women as they are breaking down barriers and shaping our experience every day. So on 8th March and every day, we shine a light on women and girls' rights and we celebrate them.

The history of International Women's Day

Women's Day observance used to be called "National Woman's Day," and was held on 28th February 1909 in New York, organised by the Socialist Party of America. But since 1911, it has been marked as International Women’s Day.

How can I take part?

You can celebrate International Women's Day with us by taking part in one or more of the following.