International Women’s Day 2025

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 2024 taking place?

International Women’s Day 2024 is on Friday, 8th March.

What is the theme of International Women's Day 2024?

The theme of IWD 2024 is: Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.

Collectively, let's forge a more inclusive world for women.

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.