Celebrated annually on March 8, International Women’s Day, or IWD, recognises the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality.

The roots of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1908, 15,000 women marched through the streets of New York City, demanding shorter hours, better pay, and voting rights — a testament to the growing momentum of the women’s suffrage movement in the United States. The idea of an international day to honour women’s achievements gained traction at the second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen in 1910. Inspired by the courage and resolve of their American counterparts, delegates from across the globe unanimously agreed to establish a day dedicated to advancing women’s rights and promoting gender equality. In 1911, International Women’s Day was officially celebrated for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with rallies, marches, and public gatherings calling for women’s suffrage, improved working conditions, and an end to discrimination and inequality. Over the years, International Women’s Day has evolved into a global phenomenon, celebrated in countries and communities around the world. From grassroots initiatives to high-profile events, the day serves as a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of women from all walks of life.

At its core, International Women’s Day is a rallying cry for gender equality and women’s empowerment. It serves as a reminder of the progress made in advancing women’s rights, while also shining a spotlight on the persistent barriers and challenges that women continue to face in achieving full equality and justice. International Women’s Day is a catalyst for change—a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to redouble their efforts in promoting gender equality and women’s rights. It sparks conversations, ignites movements, and fosters solidarity among women and allies worldwide.

The theme for IWD 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. But what does it truly entail? When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. When women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. As world-renowned feminist, journalist, and activist Gloria Steinem once said, “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” IWD transcends borders, organisations, and groups—it’s a day of collective global activism and celebration. To inspire inclusion, we must act consistently. When women aren’t present, we must question why. When discrimination occurs, we must call it out. When treatment isn’t equitable, we must act. This commitment applies each and every time.

So how can we inspire inclusion? On an individual basis, we should understand, value, and seek out the inclusion of women and girls; share knowledge, support, and encouragement with others; and embrace diversity, be it race, age, ability, faith, body image, and identity. As a group or on an organisational level, we must forge women’s economic empowerment; recruit, retain, and develop female talent; support women and girls in leadership, decision-making, business, and STEM; design and build infrastructure that meets women’s needs; help women and girls make informed decisions about their health; provide access to quality education and training; elevate women and girls’ participation and achievement in sports; and promote the creative and artistic talents of women and girls.

Over at the United Nations, the theme for IWD 2024 is Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress. In a world grappling with geopolitical conflicts, poverty, and climate change, empowering women becomes paramount. We can invest in women through:

• Economic Empowerment: By economically empowering women, we advance women’s rights and gender equality globally. Financial independence opens doors to education, healthcare, and self-determination.
• Technology and Education: Leverage technology and education in the digital age to empower women and girls. Bridging the digital divide ensures equal access to opportunities.
• Collective Solutions: These crises demand collective solutions. When we invest in women, we invest in progress for all.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us commit to inspiring inclusion, championing economic empowerment, and investing in women. Together, we can create a world where every woman’s voice is heard, every dream is achievable, and every barrier is dismantled.