Organising for International Working Women’s Day – March 8th.

International Working Women’s Day (IWWD) falls on 8th March each year. The day has its origins in the protests, strikes and marches of women trade unionists, but it has evolved over the years into an internationally recognised day to draw attention to women’s’ rights and equal participation in all spheres of political, economic and social life. For this reason the name of the day is often shortened to 'International Women’s Day' (IWD). Within Aotearoa IWD is increasingly noted and celebrated each year.

Each year a new theme for 'International Women's Day' is selected. To find out more information you can go to the International Women's Day website.

The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) celebrates IWD and encourages affiliated unions around the world to hold events. Around this day every year ITUC releases special reports, videos or campaigns to bring public attention to the problems faced by women around the world.

The United Nations began celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March during International Women’s Year 1975. Two years later, in December 1977, the General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace to be observed on any day of the year by member states, in accordance with their historical and national traditions.