International Women’s Day 2025

International Women's Day 2025 is all set to be observed on March 8th. It is a global event dedicated to honoring women's achievements and advocating for gender equality. Celebrated annually on the same date, this day unites individuals worldwide in recognizing women's contributions and addressing ongoing challenges.

With the theme ‘Accelerate Action’, the International Women's Day 2025 will serve as a platform to promote policies and actions that uplift women across different sectors. Keep reading to know more!

International Women’s Day 2025 Highlights

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International Women’s Day 2025 Theme

Each year, International Women's Day adopts a specific theme to focus global attention on particular issues affecting women. The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is ‘Accelerate Action’, which calls for a collective effort to create a gender-equal world. The focus is a society free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are celebrated. 

History of International Women’s Day 

International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th-century labor movements and women's rights activism. Here are some of the key events related to women’s day celebrations worldwide:

• 1909: The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States on February 28, led by the Socialist Party of America.

• 1910: The International Socialist Women’s Conference proposed a global Women’s Day to advocate for women's suffrage and labor rights.

• 1911: The first official International Women's Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland on March 19.

• 1917: In Russia, women protested for “bread and peace” on February 23 (March 8), contributing to the Russian Revolution. This event led to March 8 being internationally recognized.

• 1977: The United Nations officially adopted March 8 as International Women’s Day.

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Why Do We Celebrate Women's Day on March 8?

International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 due to a key event in 1917 when women in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg) began a strike for "bread and peace," sparking the Russian Revolution. Their protests led to the Czar's abdication and women gaining the right to vote. The strike, held on February 23 in the Julian calendar, corresponds to March 8 on the Gregorian calendar, which is why we observe International Women's Day on this date.

Colors Symbolizing International Women's Day

International Women’s Day is associated with three significant colors:

• Purple: Represents justice and dignity.

• Green: Symbolizes hope and growth.

• White: Stands for purity and the fight for women's rights.

These colors were introduced by the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908 and have since become symbols of the women’s rights movement worldwide.

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International Women’s Day 2025 Significance 

International Women's Day 2025 is significant because it highlights progress made and areas where work is still needed. This day aims at:

• Celebrating Women’s Achievements: Recognizing contributions in politics, science, arts, sports, and leadership roles.

• Raising Awareness About Gender Equality: Encouraging discussions on issues like wage gaps, workplace harassment, and reproductive rights.

• Advocating for Policy Changes: Urging governments to implement laws supporting women's rights and protection.

• Encouraging Women’s Leadership: Promoting women’s representation in business, governance, and technology.

• Supporting Grassroots Movements: Empowering local organizations working for women’s education, safety, and employment.

National Women’s Day of India

India celebrates National Women’s Day on January 13th each year. This date was chosen to honor the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a prominent freedom fighter, poet, and the first woman to become the president of the Indian National Congress. National Women's Day in India is observed to recognize and celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women in the country, while also raising awareness about the issues they continue to face.

In conclusion, the International Women’s Day 2025 is a powerful reminder of women’s contributions and the ongoing struggle for equality. It encourages everyone to take action, support women's empowerment, and create a more inclusive world. 

To further explore topics related to gender equality and women's achievements in history, check out PW UPSC Courses and gain in-depth knowledge essential for the IAS exam!