Since 1911, International Women's Day, also known as International Women's Day, has been celebrated every year. On 8 March, attention will be drawn to women's rights, gender equality and violence against women. At the same time, it serves to celebrate women: for their social, political and cultural successes. In two German states, Women's Day is even a public holiday.

What actions are taking place?

On Women's Day, there are mainly demonstrations criticizing gender inequality. In Berlin alone, 15 demonstrations and assemblies have been announced. At a rally on Bebelplatz, speakers from Afghanistan, Iran, the USA, Poland, Spain and Germany are to speak under the motto "Peace, freedom, self-determination and fair work". Also in Frankfurt there are various events such as concerts and demonstrations. On the occasion of Women's Day, the service trade union Verdi is calling for nationwide warning strikes in day-care centres and social institutions. According to a press release from the union, women in these institutions receive neither adequate pay nor sufficient recognition of their achievements.

The international motto of this year's Women's Day is "#EmbraceEquity". The aim is to draw attention to the difference between equality and equality, as explained on the official website of the day of action. Equality here means that women receive exactly the same resources and opportunities as men. However, equality does not take into account the differences between the sexes, which is why women continue to be disadvantaged.

Where is Women's Day a holiday?

In many Eastern European countries, Women's Day has long been a holiday. In Ukraine, just 62% of participants voted in a referendum to keep the holiday. In Germany, International Women's Day is only considered a public holiday in two federal states: in Berlin since 2019 and in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania since the beginning of the year. Here, employees can look forward to a day off.

The birth of Women's Day

Women's Day has existed in a modified form for over 100 years. In 1911 it took place for the first time after a decision of the International Socialist Women's Conference, at that time still on 19 March. Among other things, the background was demands for more wages for women and the possibility of a legal abortion. Ten years later, March 8 was set as the date to commemorate the 1917 workers' strike in St. Petersburg, which had helped initiate the Russian February Revolution. In Germany, Women's Day was banned during the Nazi era in order to focus on Mother's Day. The women's movement in the 1970s gave the holiday a new impetus and has been celebrated annually ever since.