International Women’s Day: A day of Honor and Hope

Every year on 8 March, the International Women’s Day, we celebrate the social, economic and political achievements of women worldwide and show our respect and appreciation to all of them. On this day mothers, wives and colleagues in many parts of the world would receive flowers and gifts as a sign of their significance and influence in modern society.

International Women’s Day has been observed for more than a century, since the 1990’s, a time when the world has witnessed industry growth, progress and new radical ideologies. Influenced by feminist movements and political concepts, this day is now seen as a social awareness day with a strong presence of both human rights and anti-sexism themes. In some countries 8 March is celebrated as Mother’s Day where children give flowers, cards and small presents to their mothers and grandmothers. In other parts of the world, the symbolism of the day has become more political and social, marked with numerous events and initiatives to raise awareness and support the struggles of women worldwide.

Great improvements related to women’s rights, equality and emancipation have been made throughout the decades. But while some younger women and girls consider their battles won for good, many others realize the difficulties society face every day in order to eradicate patriarchy. The truth is women still struggle with discrimination in many spheres of life – politics, business, and even their role in the family. Women are still not paid equally for the same work; there are still too few women leaders in governance, organizations and economic structures. There is still violence against women while a lot needs to be done about women’s education and health.

One of the structures working for improving the women’s quality of life is the United Nations which annually launches various campaigns and initiatives around the globe. On the occasion of International Women’s Day this year, the UN came up with a theme: A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women, stating that violence against women is never acceptable, never excusable, and never tolerable. Acclaimed artists and musicians have gathered to send a global message of peace, unity and solidarity with a song that will be launched on 8 March, 2013, titled One Woman.

Many other politicians, business leaders, journalists and actors address societies and countries to take actions for making women truly equal. But of course, we should mention all women achievements that have contributed to world’s progress – we have brilliant women scientists, athletes, prime ministers, astronauts and even soldiers who fight equally with men. Instead of only reminding the negative sides, the celebration of International Women’s Day should be honoring the past and future achievements of women. We should all be proud of every female leader, but we should also do our best every single day to improve the life and the role of the women everywhere.