The United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace is observed on March 8 — the same day as International Women’s Day! It is common knowledge that women face many challenges, from gender discrimination to gender-based violence, to name a few. The United Nations operates on the fundamental principle of equal human rights for men and women. The United Nations Charter concluded that for meaningful development and lasting peace to be achieved, discrimination against women must be curbed. The United Nations calls for public dialogue and open debate about these issues every year.
History of United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace
Historically, women have always been marginalized and devalued. Women suffer from wars, domestic violence, gender discrimination, and human rights violations worldwide. It is sad to say that women make up the majority of displaced persons in many countries. The United Nations views the protection of human rights of men and women as one of its primary objectives.
In history, the earliest observance of Women’s day dates back to 1909 in New York City. The event was organized by Theresa Malkiel of the Socialist Party of America. By August 1910, an International Socialists women’s conference was organized in Denmark. The idea for women’s day was brought about by German Delegates Clara Zetkin, Paula Thiede, and a few others. Delegates from 17 countries came to a unanimous agreement that the idea would be used as a strategy to promote equal rights and opportunities for women.
The United Nations began commemorating International Women’s Day in 1975. By 1977, the United Nations General Assembly and its member countries had declared March 8 as an official UN holiday for women’s rights and world peace. The United Nations and the majority of the globe commemorate this occasion. Each year, a different theme or issue related to women’s rights is highlighted. By the year 2000, the council’s resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security had been implemented. The United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace acts as a forum for discussing issues concerning women’s rights, such as gender equality, violence, and abuse.
United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace timeline
The first Women's day celebration begins in the U.S., due to a women's movement held by the Socialist Party of America to protest against the working conditions women were subjected to.
On March 8, Russian women demonstrate for Bread and Peace, and the acting government agrees to grant women the right to vote.
The United Nations begins celebrating March 8, as International Women's Day.
In December of 1977, the United Nations General Assembly and its member states proclaims the celebration of Women's Rights and International Peace to be observed on March 8.
The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action is endorsed by 189 governments and includes gender equality and women empowerment in the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.
United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace FAQs
How many countries recognize Women's day?
Some 27 countries in the world recognize and celebrate Women’s Day.
What are the colors of International Women’s Day?
Purple, green, and white are the three colors of International Women’s Day.
Who started International Women's Day?
International Women’s Day was started by the German Marxist, Clara Zetkin in 1911.
How to Observe United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace
Donate to a Women’s Charity
You can participate in the celebration by identifying a women's charity and donating. This would definitely be a cause worth investing in.
Reach out to women who Inspire you
Reach out to your female friends, professors, sisters, mothers, aunties, colleagues, and grandmothers. Send them a word of encouragement and appreciation.
Share on Social Media
Show your support by spreading the word on social media. Share hashtags to celebrate the United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace.
5 Facts About Women’s Day
It is an official holiday
March 8 is an official holiday to celebrate women across the globe in countries like Vietnam, Russia, Uganda, and Ukraine, to name a few.
It celebrates women’s achievements
Studies have shown that educated women contribute to economic growth in 34 countries by at least 50%.
It has different annual themes
The United Nations comes up with a different theme annually for Women’s Day.
The world’s first programmer
The world's first computer programmer was a woman named Ada Lovelace.
The highest intelligence quotient
The world's recorded highest intelligence quota belongs to women, Marilyn Vos Savant has the highest IQ of 228.
Why United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace is Important
It has a long history
The celebration of Women's day can be traced as far back as 100 years ago. It celebrates the efforts of women in fighting for their rights.
It celebrates achievements
We sometimes forget to cheer women for their efforts. On United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace, women are celebrated for their achievements in economics, politics, and social fields.
It educates and creates awareness
This holiday educates the public on important issues like gender equality, human rights violation, and gender-based violence. With such awareness created, the rights of women will not be violated.
United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 8 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March 8 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March 8 | Monday |
| 2028 | March 8 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | March 8 | Thursday |
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