International Women's Day

International Women's Day is a global observance celebrated worldwide to acknowledge the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is an occasion to reflect on progress made, to call for changes and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an exceptional role in the history of their countries and communities. The observance also highlights the need for gender equality, women’s rights and their contribution to society.

The history of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century with women across Europe demanding their rights for suffrage, better working conditions and equality. In the European Union, the observance plays a significant role in bringing awareness to various issues that concern women, such as gender pay gap, workplace discrimination, and violence against women. The day serves as a platform to address these aspects at a continental level and reinforces EU’s commitment to gender equality, as stated by European Institute for Gender Equality.

International Women’s Day in the European Union is typically marked by numerous events and activities. These include discussions, presentations, rallies, networking events, performances and online digital campaigns that aim to promote women's rights and their achievements. Various EU institutions endorse and participate in these initiatives. Moreover, the EU often aligns with the international theme decided by the United Nations for International Women's Day which takes place annually on March 8th. The day remains a potent reminder to the European Union's ongoing efforts to achieve gender balance and equality.