GS Paper 1:
Topics Covered: issues related to women.
Context:
Women’s Day is celebrated every year around the world on March 8.
Theme:
Theme for International Women’s Day, 2022 (IWD 2022) is ‘Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow’.
- It attempts to recognise the “contribution of women and girls around the world, who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation, and response, to build a more sustainable future for all”.
IWD 2022 campaign theme is ‘#BreakTheBias’.
- It intends to promote a “gender equal world”, which is “free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination”. “A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive”, and where “difference is valued and celebrated”.
History and significance:
IWD has been celebrated for over a century now, but many people think of it purely as a feminist cause. Its roots, however, are found in the labour movement, wherein it was first organised in 1911 by the early 20th century Marxist from Germany Clara Zetkin.
What colors symbolize International Women’s Day?
Purple, green and white are the colors of International Women’s Day.
- Purple signifies justice and dignity.
- Green symbolizes hope.
- White represents purity, albeit a controversial concept.
The colors originated from the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908.
Need for an International Women’s Day:
According to the World Economic Forum, sadly none of us will see gender parity in our lifetimes, and nor likely will many of our children. Gender parity will not be attained for almost a century.
- Women, especially young women, are at the forefront of diverse and inclusive movements online and on the streets for social justice, climate change and equality in all parts of the world.
- Yet, women under 30 are less than 1 per cent of parliamentarians worldwide.
- This is why, this year’s International Women’s Day is a rallying cry for Generation Equality, to act for an equal future for all.
InstaLinks:
Prelims Link:
- Brief overview of various days of international importance.
- Key themes.
- Special campaigns wrt women in India and around the World.
- Schemes for women in India.
Mains Link:
Write a note on International Women’s Day.
Sources: Indian Express.
