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More than a celebration: History behind International Women’s Day
07th March, 2026 12:48 PM
On any ordinary day, a woman somewhere is holding the world together. She is answering work emails while thinking about what to cook for dinner. She is chasing a dream while also reminding someone to carry an umbrella because it might rain later. She is solving problems, supporting others, and somehow remembering everyone’s birthday.
This Sunday, March 8, 2026 the world will pause to celebrate International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to recognising the achievements, resilience and contributions of women across the globe. While the celebrations may include events, speeches and social media tributes, the day is really about something deeper: appreciating the everyday strength and impact of women in society.
A day rooted in history
International Women’s Day did not begin as a cheerful celebration with flowers and hashtags. Its roots go back more than a century, when women in different parts of the world began demanding better working conditions, fair wages and the right to vote.
In the early 1900s, many women worked long hours in factories under harsh conditions but had little say in political or economic decisions. Activists and labour movements began organising protests and campaigns to demand change. Over time, these efforts grew into a global movement that eventually led to the recognition of March 8 as a day dedicated to women’s rights and achievements.
Today, the day is observed in many countries through discussions, campaigns and community activities that focus on issues such as equality, leadership and opportunity.
Roles women play
Women often carry many responsibilities at once, and they do it with remarkable determination. A woman can be a professional, entrepreneur, mother, mentor, friend and community leader all in the same day.
It is not unusual to see a woman leading a meeting in the morning, checking on family matters during lunch, and later helping a friend navigate a life challenge.
This ability to balance different roles is one of the quiet strengths that defines many women. It may not always be celebrated loudly, but it keeps families, workplaces and communities running.
Progress worth celebrating
Over the years, women have made significant strides in many fields. More women are entering leadership positions in politics, business, science, sports and the arts. Young girls today are growing up with more opportunities and role models than previous generations could have imagined.
Across the world, women are starting businesses, leading organisations and shaping important conversations in society. Their achievements are gradually breaking long-standing barriers and opening doors for the next generation.
Still, the journey toward equality is not yet complete.
Challenges that remain
Despite the progress made, many women continue to face challenges such as unequal pay, limited access to opportunities and underrepresentation in decision-making spaces. Gender-based violence and discrimination also remain serious issues in many communities.
International Women’s Day, therefore, serves as both a celebration and a reminder. It celebrates how far women have come, while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done to ensure fairness and opportunity for all.
Women supporting women
One powerful force behind women’s progress is the way they support one another. Women often build networks of encouragement, mentorship and collaboration that help others grow.
Sometimes that support is visible, such as mentoring young professionals or promoting women-led businesses. Other times it is simple and quiet, a word of encouragement, a shared laugh after a long day, or someone reminding you that you are stronger than you think.
These small acts of solidarity often create lasting change.
