International Women’s Day today. Various events are organized globally on this day with the objective of preventing violence against women, ensuring equal rights for women and men, and recognizing women’s contributions in economic, political, and social successes. Like other countries, Bangladesh also observes this day through various formalities organized by different organizations.
This year’s theme emphasizes “Equal Rights for Women, Advancing Beyond Equality in Investment.”
To mark Women’s Day, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has organized an event at 10 am today at the Osmani Smriti Milonayaton, where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be present as the chief guest.
The day’s program includes discussions, rallies, healthcare services, processions, and cultural events. Additionally, there will be gatherings at the Central Shaheed Minar premises, along with cultural programs and rallies. The National Press Club, along with various social, political, and cultural organizations, has announced programs to mark the day.
The President and Prime Minister have issued separate messages on the occasion, extending their greetings and congratulations to all women around the world.
On March 8, 1857, in New York City, women textile workers protested against their working conditions, demanding reasonable wages and a healthy working environment, reducing their workday from 12 to 8 hours. Many women were arrested and subjected to torture during this movement.
Three years later, on the same day in 1860, the “Women Workers Union” was formed. In 1908, nearly 1,500 women workers from the garment and textile industry protested for the same demands. Eventually, they succeeded in achieving the right to an 8-hour workday.
On this day in 1910, Clara Zetkin of Germany announced March 8 as International Women’s Day during the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark. Since then, the day has been observed as International Women’s Day worldwide.
The United Nations began observing International Women’s Day on March 8 during the International Women’s Year in 1975. Two years later, in 1977, the United Nations officially recognized the day as International Women’s Day.
