International Women’s Day (IWD) is held every year on 8 March to celebrate women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements and to call for gender equality. It began with workers’ movements in the early 1900s, was first marked internationally in 1911, and has been recognised by the United Nations since 1975.
What is the history of International Women’s Day?
- 1909: the first National Woman’s Day was held in the United States on 28 February, organised by the Socialist Party of America.
- 1910: at a conference in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin proposed an annual international women’s day.
- 1911: IWD was marked for the first time on 19 March in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland, with more than a million people attending rallies.
- 1917: women’s strikes in Russia, starting on 8 March in the Gregorian calendar, helped fix the date.
- 1975: the United Nations celebrated IWD for the first time, during International Women’s Year.
How is Women’s Day celebrated around the world?
Each year the UN and campaign groups choose a theme and host talks, campaigns and events. Customs differ by country:
- Vietnam, Russia and parts of Eastern Europe: men give flowers and gifts to female colleagues, friends and family.
- China: many workplaces give women a half day off.
- Italy: people give sprigs of yellow mimosa.
- Several countries, including Ukraine and Georgia, make 8 March a public holiday.
What challenges does Women’s Day highlight?
IWD draws attention to issues that remain unresolved worldwide, including the gender pay gap, under-representation in leadership, unequal unpaid care work, and violence against women.
How can you celebrate International Women’s Day?
- Recognise the women around you – thank colleagues, friends and family for their contributions.
- Support women-owned businesses – buy from and recommend women-led brands.
- Learn and share – read about gender equality and share reliable information.
- Donate – support organisations working on women’s rights and education.
- Join events – attend local talks, workshops or online campaigns.
How does ACM mark Women’s Day?
As a Vietnamese beverage manufacturer, ACM follows the local tradition of celebrating its female employees on 8 March. Read more about the company on the company profile page.
Frequently asked questions
When is International Women’s Day?
Every year on 8 March.
Why is Women’s Day on 8 March?
The date became fixed after women’s strikes in Russia began on 8 March 1917 (Gregorian calendar), and it has been used internationally since.
What is the colour of International Women’s Day?
Purple, green and white are the traditional colours, linked to the women’s suffrage movement. Purple represents justice and dignity.
Is International Women’s Day the same as Vietnamese Women’s Day?
No. Vietnam celebrates both International Women’s Day on 8 March and Vietnamese Women’s Day on 20 October.
