international women’s day? International Women’s Day (IWD) is all set to be celebrated this year on 8 March globally, focusing on recognizing women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. International Women’s Day 2024: Theme The United Nations has decided this year’s theme as ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ is aimed at tackling economic disempowerment. While the campaign theme for the same year is ‘Inspire Inclusion.’ Though this campaign, the importance of diversity and empowerment in all aspects of society is emphasized. Also, the campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality. International Women’s Day 2024: History and significance In 28 February, 1909, the United Nations observed the first National Women’s Day, followed by a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. To advocate for women’s rights and suffrage, Clara Zetkin proposed establishing an annual Women’s Day in 1910 during the International Conference for Working Women in Copenhagen. It met with unanimous approval, that lead to the first International Women’s Day being celebrated in 1911 across Austria, Denmark , Germany and Switzerland. International Women’s Day has great significance for gender equality and women’s rights. This day gives a platform to raise awareness about women’s rights across sectors including social, economic, cultural and political achievements. Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #InspireInclusion. Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to drive gender parity. IWD belongs to everyone, everywhere. Inclusion means all IWD action is valid. Here are five key areas needing joint action: Investing in women, a human rights issue: Time is running out. Gender equality is the greatest human rights challenge, benefiting everyone. Ending poverty: Due to the COVID pandemic and conflicts, 75 million more people have fallen into severe poverty since 2020. Immediate action is crucial to prevent over 342 million women and girls living in poverty by 2030. Implementing gender-responsive financing: Conflicts and rising prices may lead 75% of countries to cut public spending by 2025, negatively impacting women and their essential services. Shifting to a green economy and care society: The current economic system disproportionately affects women. Advocates propose a shift to a green economy and care society to amplify women’s voices. Supporting feminist change-makers: Despite leading efforts, feminist organizations receive only 0.13% of official development assistance. This International Women’s Day, let’s unite to transform challenges into opportunities and shape a better future for all!