International Women’s Day is celebrated in
many countries around the world. It is a day when women are recognized for
their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic,
linguistic, cultural, economic or political. It is an occasion for looking back
on past struggles and accomplishments, and more importantly, for looking ahead
to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of
women.
In 1975, during International Women's Year,
the United Nations began celebrating International Women’s Day on 8 March. 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. In adopting its resolution, the General
Assembly recognized the role of women in peace efforts and development and
urged an end to discrimination and an increase of support for women’s full and
equal participation.
For information about recent themes and
commemorations by the United Nations of International Women’s Day, please
visit: http://www.un.org/womenwatch/feature/iwd
