DHAKA, March 7, (V7N) - Bangladesh will join the rest of the world in observing International Women’s Day tomorrow, March 8, under the theme “Digit ALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality.”

The President and Prime Minister have issued separate messages marking the day, which has been observed globally since the United Nations formally recognized it in 1975. This year’s theme emphasizes “Rights, Justice and Opportunities for All Women,” highlighting the need for immediate action to ensure women’s dignity and equality.

International Women’s Day celebrates women’s economic, political, and social achievements while calling for accelerated progress toward gender parity. The objective is to encourage cooperation, support, and resource-sharing to empower women, reinforcing that women’s development equally benefits society and the economy.

The observance has deep historical roots. In 1857, women textile workers in New York protested wage discrimination and harsh working conditions. Later, in 1909, the first international women’s conference was organized in New York, led by German socialist Clara Zetkin. At the second conference in Copenhagen in 1910, Zetkin proposed March 8 as International Women’s Day, a resolution adopted by representatives from 17 countries.

From 1911 onward, the day was observed in several countries, and by 1914 it gained wider recognition. The UN’s formal adoption in 1975 gave the day global prominence, with annual themes focusing on women’s rights and empowerment.

In Bangladesh, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has undertaken national-level programmes to mark the day. Offices, organizations, and educational institutions across the country will also hold diverse initiatives, including rallies, discussions, cultural events, and awareness campaigns.

Globally, International Women’s Day is marked by celebrations, rallies, lobbying, performances, and fundraising for women-focused causes. It is recognized as one of the most important days of the year to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about equality, and call for positive change.

The day is inclusive and community-driven, belonging to no single group or organization. Feminist leaders emphasize that all efforts advancing women’s equality are valid and should be respected. As 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.”

International Women’s Day has been observed for well over a century, with its first gathering in 1911. Its symbolic colors—purple, green, and white—originated from the UK’s Women’s Social and Political Union in 1908, representing justice and dignity, hope, and purity respectively.

Bangladesh’s observance tomorrow will highlight women’s contributions to society and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to gender equality, innovation, and inclusivity.

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