International Women’s Day has its roots in the labor movement. In 1910, at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed an international day to press for women’s rights. The idea was adopted, and the first International Women’s Day was observed on March 19, 1911, in several European countries. The date later settled on March 8, and the United Nations began observing the day in 1975.
The 100th anniversary in 2011 was a moment to measure how far the movement had come and how far it still had to go. Women had won the vote, entered the workforce in large numbers, and taken seats in parliaments around the world. Yet gaps remained in pay, political power, and safety.
Education is one of the clearest examples. UNESCO has reported that about 132 million girls worldwide are out of school, with poverty, conflict, and discrimination keeping them out of classrooms. Closing that gap is one of the most effective ways to improve health, incomes, and equality.
The anniversary was not just a celebration. It was a call to keep pushing: for equal pay, for an end to violence against women, and for policies that let women lead. Mark the day by learning its history, supporting women-led organizations, and joining the International Women’s Day celebration. You can also explore programs like the women’s education master’s program in Kabul and financing options for women-owned small businesses.
