The History of International Women's Day

The History of International Women's Day

by Aditi Thirani

1909 saw the start of the women's movement where the IWD (International Women's Day) was established. Women went through a lot of bias when it came to wages in industries and they were isolated in all possible ways. They were made to work in the worst of conditions and the pay was depressing. This was the time when trade unions were getting formed and the flame of revolution was lit. And this was the time when un-unionised women got the chance they longed.

Women faced a lot of issues right from voting rights to the rights even in the family. Most of the places came under these issues and then women in Australia started with a campaign for the voting rights of women. Different perspectives clashed with each other as to how these issues are supposed to be handled.

Germany and Russia fought for it as being a necessity in the society. Some fought for the property rights and some managed to get the messages and concerns across. This was a time when the mass movement of women fought against the exploitation working women faced at workplace. Also the violence women faced at home was and is still a big issue for which many prominent people joined hands.

The basic rights like political and economics rights had to be conserved for women. And later in 1910 the social workers and delegates decided in a meeting that Women's day should become an international event. The idea of women all over the world getting politically organised was created quite a stir everywhere. The German Socialist Party had a major influence over the international women's movement and the party had many women rights advocates in place.

Hands in hands with US, German leader Clara Zetkin framed a proposal which said that women throughout the world must observe this day to press on their demands. International women's day was first time honoured on the 19th of March. Over 100 women from around 17 countries had agreed to the proposal. Three of these women were elected as the first women to Finnish Parliament.

Also some other issues were addressed like the maternity benefits. Thus women became more strong and vocal in addressing their opinions. More attention was paid to addressing the common issues faced by women. And after the World War 1, it had been acknowledged globally. 1975 was designated as the International women's Year by United Nation. Women across the world hold this day with great regards and a series of events with respect to it. Film screenings, dramas and programs supporting the cause were seen.

IWD is now an official holiday in Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. This day sees men honouring their wives, daughters and mothers with gifts and flowers. In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of Mother's Day where children give small presents to their mothers and grandmothers.

The changed have been significant since then. Women's day movement has reached to a credible stage today. Today we can proudly say that what the founders of IWD (International women's Day) had in view has been successful.