Every year on 8 March, International Women’s Day serves as a global call to recognise the achievements of women and push for equality. In 2025, the theme, ‘Accelerate Action for Gender Equality’, highlights the urgency of addressing persistent gaps in rights and opportunities. With progress moving too slowly, this is a crucial time to challenge barriers, promote inclusivity, and inspire meaningful change.
The Theme for International Women’s Day 2025
The theme for International Women’s Day 2025, "Accelerate Action for Gender Equality", is a bold call to expedite progress. While strides have been made, global developments have highlighted how far we still have to go. This theme focuses on breaking down systemic hurdles and fast-tracking long-term, meaningful change. With current projections on gender parity stretching far into the future, the urgency to act now is more pressing than ever.
A Call for Swift Progress
Why does action need to speed up? At the current rate of change, the World Economic Forum estimates that it could take until 2158 to achieve full gender parity. This staggering timeline underscores how slow progress really is. Despite ongoing efforts, barriers such as unequal pay, limited access to leadership roles, and cultural stereotypes still persist across industries and regions.
For example:
Economic inequality continues to hold women back. Globally, women still earn 20% less than men on average and are overrepresented in informal or unpaid work.
Leadership gaps remain significant. As of 2023, women occupy just 29% of senior management roles worldwide.
Access to education and healthcare has improved, yet millions of girls remain out of school, particularly in developing countries.
These disparities are not just about fairness; they’re also costing us. Research shows that bridging the gender gap in labour markets could add as much as $28 trillion to global GDP in a "full potential" scenario. That’s nearly equivalent to the combined economies of China and the United States.
The theme ‘Accelerate Action’ calls for dismantling these systemic issues, not just through policy but by fostering widespread cultural and institutional shifts. It’s a rallying cry for governments, businesses, and communities to move beyond incremental steps and push for substantial, measurable outcomes.
How 'Accelerate Action' Aligns with Global Goals
The 2025 theme doesn’t exist in isolation. It aligns closely with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls. Gender equality is also a key driver for meeting other SDGs, such as eradicating poverty, improving health outcomes, and promoting economic growth.
Here’s how the theme ties into global initiatives:
SDG 5: Gender Equality The emphasis on accelerating action directly supports the UN’s target of eliminating discriminatory laws, ending violence against women, and ensuring equal opportunities in all spheres of life. Yet, with just five years left until the SDG deadline of 2030, major gaps remain.
Economic Empowerment and Labour Inclusion By promoting women’s full participation in the labour force, the theme supports global efforts to increase female workforce participation, reduce gender wage gaps, and facilitate access to financial resources for women entrepreneurs.
Intersectionality and Equality for All This theme also integrates with movements addressing intersectional inequalities, recognising that gender is just one dimension of discrimination. Factors such as race, disability, and socioeconomic status compound barriers for many women.
Global initiatives like UN Women’s HeForShe campaign and the Beijing Platform for Action also provide frameworks to accelerate equality. The 2025 theme serves as both a timeline marker and a motivational spark, urging nations not to lose momentum between now and 2030.
Every small action counts, but collective and coordinated efforts are what will truly move the needle. The question is: Are we ready to pick up the pace? With the stakes this high, we can’t afford to wait.
Why International Women's Day Matters
International Women's Day (IWD) isn’t just a date on the calendar; it’s a global reminder of the progress women have made and the work that still lies ahead. With roots stretching back over a century, IWD has grown to become a powerful platform for celebrating successes, addressing ongoing inequality, and sparking action. It isn’t just symbolic—this day drives real-world change by uniting people towards creating a fairer, more inclusive society.
Celebrating Achievements
Women's achievements across the world have shaped industries, communities, and societies. From breaking into traditionally male-dominated fields to excelling in leadership, their contributions are undeniable.
Science & Technology: In recent years, women like Dr. Özlem Türeci (a key figure in developing the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine) have demonstrated how essential women are to solving global challenges.
Politics & Leadership: Figures like Jacinda Ardern have redefined leadership styles, showing that empathy and determination can coexist.
Sports & Arts: Icons like Serena Williams or Malala Yousafzai (through her advocacy for education) prove that excellence transcends boundaries.
These milestones go beyond individual success—they inspire future generations. Seeing women thrive and break barriers sends a clear message: gender does not limit ability.
Addressing Systemic Biases
Despite these achievements, women still face entrenched barriers. Inequalities remain deeply rooted in systems that shape workplaces, education, and communities. For instance:
Women globally earn approximately 20% less than men for the same work.
Access to leadership roles remains limited, with only 29% of senior management positions held by women as of 2023.
Gender-based violence and harassment persist, with alarming rates worldwide, especially in conflict zones.
These challenges cannot be addressed through sporadic efforts—they require dismantling underlying biases in policies, cultures, and attitudes. Gender equity isn’t just a “women’s issue”; it’s an everyone issue that impacts economies, societies, and families alike. Without targeted action, progress will remain painfully slow.
Inspiring Collective Action
One of the most significant aspects of IWD is its ability to galvanise change through collaboration. Real progress comes when individuals, communities, organisations, and governments work together.
Here’s how collaboration amplifies change:
Grassroots Movements: Local organisations often bring about community-level transformations, such as providing access to resources or challenging cultural norms.
Corporate Responsibility: Companies can create equitable workplaces by addressing pay gaps, offering mentoring programmes, and promoting women to leadership.
Government Policies: Laws supporting parental leave, protection from gender-based violence, and workplace equality policies lay the foundation for sustained progress.
Everyone has a role to play. Whether it’s advocating for better laws, standing against workplace discrimination, or mentoring women in your field, collective effort drives measurable outcomes. Together, we can make equality not just a goal, but a reality that benefits all.
How to Get Involved in International Women’s Day 2025
International Women’s Day on 8 March is a powerful opportunity to not only celebrate women’s achievements but to take tangible steps towards equality and empowerment. If you want to make a difference this year, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Whether you're joining an event, supporting an organisation, or raising awareness online, every action counts.
Participate in Local and Global Events
Attending an International Women’s Day event is one of the most direct ways to show support. These gatherings unite people across communities and showcase collective resolve towards gender equality. Events can vary widely, each offering a unique way to foster change:
Marches and Rallys: Many cities host marches, where individuals come together to protest gender inequalities and demand action. These are dynamic, inspiring events perfect for those who want to visibly stand with the cause.
Conferences and Panel Discussions: Explore issues such as pay equity, leadership gaps, and intersectional challenges. These forums are ideal for learning and networking, featuring influential speakers sharing strategies for change.
Workshops and Skill-Building Sessions: From STEM-focused events to entrepreneurship coaching, these activities empower women with tools to thrive in personal and professional spheres.
Participating in an event, whether in person or online, creates a ripple effect of awareness and solidarity. Check platforms like Eventbrite or the official International Women’s Day website for listings near you or virtual options.
Support Women-Focused Charities
If you want to make an impactful contribution, consider supporting charities working to uplift women and girls globally. Many organisations focus on key areas like education, healthcare, violence prevention, and economic empowerment. Here are some ways to help:
Donate: Every bit counts! Look for trusted organisations like UN Women or smaller grassroots groups making localised impact. Many campaigns during IWD, such as the IWD Giving initiative, make it convenient to find vetted charities.
Volunteer Your Time: If funds are tight, donate your skills instead. Organisations often need support for tasks like event planning, marketing, or mentorship programmes.
Fundraising and Awareness Drives: Host a bake sale, charity run, or donation-matching campaign to involve your community. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to support critical initiatives.
By giving time or money, you contribute directly to impactful efforts, strengthening communities and fostering opportunities for women everywhere.
Raise Awareness on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for amplifying the message of gender equality. With just a few clicks, you can help spread awareness, share resources, and connect with others taking action. Here are tips to make the most of it:
Use the Campaign Hashtag: Include hashtags like #IWD2025 and #AccelerateAction to contribute to global conversations.
Highlight Inspiring Stories: Share posts or create your own content celebrating women who inspire you. From local leaders to historical figures, storytelling is an effective way to engage your audience.
Start Conversations: Pose thought-provoking questions or polls about gender equality. For example: “What does equality mean to you?” encourages meaningful interaction.
Keep it Visual: Graphics, videos, and infographics capture attention more effectively than plain text. Share educational content or striking images that drive the point home.
When you post, remember to keep the message authentic and impactful. Social media can reach corners of the world that marches or events may not, making this a crucial avenue for driving change.
Even small actions have the power to contribute to the larger goal of gender parity. International Women’s Day 2025 is the moment to get involved and accelerate the push for equality. So, how will you make your voice heard?
The Symbolism Behind International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) isn’t just an occasion to honour women’s achievements; it’s steeped in powerful symbolism that unites people across the globe. From the colours associated with the day to the many traditions observed worldwide, these symbols tell a deeper story of resilience, hope, and unity in the face of inequality.
The Colours of IWD: Purple, Green, and White
If you’ve ever seen an International Women’s Day banner, you’ve probably noticed the striking combination of purple, green, and white. But have you wondered why these colours were chosen? They have a historical and meaningful connection to women’s equality, rooted in the early 20th-century suffragette movement in Britain.
Purple represents justice and dignity, the foundation of the fight for equal rights. It’s a reminder of the strength and perseverance required to tackle gender discrimination.
Green stands for hope, a nod to the optimism that drives this global movement forward, even in the face of challenges.
White symbolises purity, not in the conventional sense, but as a call for transparency and integrity in the pursuit of equality.
The Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), an influential organisation campaigning for women’s right to vote in the UK, originally popularised these colours in 1908. Today, they act as a visual cue, a sort of global rallying flag for gender equality. Whether worn on clothing, displayed on social media, or draped across event venues, these shades unite people around a shared cause.
Traditions and Observances Around the World
International Women’s Day is marked in diverse ways worldwide, reflecting cultural, social, and political priorities. The day varies from celebratory events to activism-driven actions, and some countries even recognise it as a public holiday. Let’s take a look at how different regions celebrate:
Russia: IWD is much like Mother’s Day, with flowers and gifts offered to women as a token of appreciation. It’s a public holiday, often focused on celebrating women’s roles in the family and workforce.
Italy: Women receive mimosa flowers, a bright yellow bloom symbolising strength and sensitivity. Italians also celebrate with gatherings and festivities promoting women’s freedom and equality.
China: While not a full holiday, women are often granted half a day off work. It’s a time to reflect on the progress women have made and highlight ongoing struggles.
Uganda: IWD is a public holiday, and celebrations often include parades and speeches. The day is widely used to outline government commitments to gender equality.
United States & UK: Observances are usually activism-driven, with marches, panel discussions, and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about issues like equal pay and reproductive rights.
From the small, symbolic acts of giving flowers to large-scale rallies, these unique traditions highlight the importance of cultural context in celebrating women’s day. Despite the differences, the message remains the same: equality is long overdue.
Using Symbols to Unite a Global Cause
What makes symbols so effective when fighting for social change? They are universal, transcending language, culture, and geography. International Women’s Day excels in this aspect, using symbols like colours, logos, and hashtags (#IWD2025, #AccelerateAction) to foster unity and inspire action.
Symbols create a shared identity for movements. When someone wears purple or posts online with an IWD hashtag, they’re showing solidarity, much like teammates wearing the same jersey. This sense of belonging fuels collective action. Think of it as a ripple effect—one symbol inspires another person to join, and the momentum grows.
Moreover, these symbols make the cause visible. A single image can tell a story, spark interest, and bring attention to neglected issues. It’s why we see landmarks lit up in purple, women sharing their inspirational stories under unified hashtags, and event spaces decked out in the day’s iconic colours.
In a world that often feels divided, symbols like those of International Women’s Day serve as bridges—reminding us that equality, justice, and hope are universal goals worth fighting for. They’re not just decorations; they spark conversations, lead to real-world actions, and keep the movement growing stronger year by year.
Conclusion
International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress in gender equality isn’t inevitable—it’s achieved through action. The 2025 theme, "Accelerate Action," underlines the urgency of removing barriers and creating a world where everyone has equal opportunities.
Small acts like sharing resources, supporting women-focused organisations, or attending events can add up to big change. This is a collective effort, and every voice matters.
As we look ahead, let’s commit to keeping the momentum alive. Equality benefits us all. How will you take a stand today?