Today, International Women’s Day is being observed across the country, in alignment with global celebrations. 

This year’s theme, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” emphasizes the significance of gender equality and women’s development.

Various women’s, social, and political organizations have planned distinct programs to mark the occasion.

In a special message, Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus expressed optimism about the progress of women in Bangladesh, envisioning their advancement in line with developed nations to contribute to a prosperous future for the country.

Recognizing women’s active role in recent socio-political movements, Dr. Yunus highlighted their leadership in the July-August mass uprising, where students, workers, and citizens mobilized for democratic reforms.

To commemorate the day, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has organized an extensive series of events.

The Jatiya Press Club (JPC) will hold a discussion at Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall at 11 AM, presided over by JPC President Hasan Hafiz.

Additionally, the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) has planned a rickshaw rally from Banani Beltola to Karail ground at 11:30 AM. The event will see participation from BLAST’s youth and women's football teams.

The Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Mohila Dal will also organize a vibrant rally, beginning at 11 AM from the BNP central office, parading through city streets before returning to the starting point. 

BNP National Standing Committee member Begum Selima Rahman will attend as the chief guest, while senior joint secretary general Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed will serve as the key speaker.

The History of International Women’s Day
Observed annually on March 8, International Women’s Day (IWD) has its roots in the early 20th-century women’s rights movements. It originated from a Women’s Day event organized by the Socialist Party of America on February 28, 1909, in New York. Subsequently, the 1910 International Socialist Women's Conference proposed an annual Women's Day to advocate for gender equality.

The significance of March 8 was cemented in 1917 when women in Soviet Russia gained suffrage, leading to the day becoming a national holiday. Initially embraced by socialist and communist movements, International Women’s Day gained global recognition when the United Nations officially adopted it in 1975.

Since then, the day has been celebrated worldwide, serving as a powerful reminder of the progress made in gender equality and the ongoing fight for women's rights and empowerment.

BDST: 1057 HRS, MAR 08, 2025
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