On March 8^th every year, millions of women and men across Dubai and the world come together to celebrate the IWD (International Women’s Day). But the day means so much more than just mere celebrations.

IWD is essentially about celebrating the cultural, economic, social and political achievements women have made over the years and continuing to demand for gender equality at work and in all other aspects of life. After all, what a man can do, a woman can do better!

So as you celebrate yourself and all the womenfolk across the world who continue to change women’s lives for the better, you know at the back of your mind that progress has already been made and much more progress can still be made.

History of the International Women’s Day

The International Women’s Day traces its origins to New York in the early 1900s. Back then, much of the rights and freedoms enjoyed by women today were unheard of. According to the United Nations, the day was first marked in February 28^th 1909 to honor the over fifteen thousand women who had marched through New York about a year earlier demanding for better work conditions, better pay and the right to vote.

The 1909 celebration was organized by the Socialist Party of America. However, in the following years, women from more and more countries met and the March 8^th celebration has now become more of a global phenomenon. From the United States to China and even to right here at home in the United Arab Emirates, women all over the world are now celebrating the event.

Other key dates surrounding the International Women’s Day celebration include the 1975 incorporation of March 8^th into the United Nations events calendar and the 1995 Beijing Declaration that formed a framework for bettering the lives of women across the world.

Why is International Women’s Day Important?

Awareness mostly. You see, despite the significant progress already made by women, there is still much to do. Gender equality is still more of an exception than the norm. A 2016 report by the World Economic Forum estimates that at the current pace, there won’t be gender equality until the year 2186! That’s about two centuries from now. Imagine that! By celebrating the day, organizers of the 8^th March Women’s day are hoping to raise awareness and urge governments and organizations to act now for gender parity. Happy women’s day to those working hard to attain this noble goal!