IWD is a major day (March 6) of global celebration for the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. The first IWD was run in 1911 so in just a few years time 2011 sees the IWD Global Centenary.
Read the full history of IWD. As of 23 February there are 459 IWD events in 37 countries planned. Find one near you.
Here are some of the global United Nation themes used for International Women’s Day to date:
– 2009: Women and men united to end violence against women and girls
– 2008: Investing in Women and Girls
– 2007: Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls
– 2006: Women in decision-making
– 2005: Gender Equality Beyond 2005: Building a More Secure Future
– 2004: Women and HIV/AIDS
– 2003: Gender Equality and the Millennium Development Goals
– 2002: Afghan Women Today: Realities and Opportunities
– 2001: Women and Peace: Women Managing Conflicts
– 2000: Women Uniting for Peace
– 1999: World Free of Violence against Women
– 1998: Women and Human Rights
– 1997: Women at the Peace Table
– 1996: Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future