"Breaking Barriers: Highlighting the Impact of Women's Achievements on International Women's Day"

By: Abisha Thiyahaseelan

8 March 2024

On March 8th, the world celebrates International Women's Day, a significant event that aims to promote gender equality by honouring women's achievements, recognising their efforts in all domains, and more. Today, as we celebrate Women's Day, let us take stock of where we are, what obstacles still stand in the way of a more just and inclusive world, and the steps that must be taken to overcome them.

Women have achieved remarkable progress in several fields throughout the years, defying expectations and overcoming obstacles. In politics, business, science, and education, among innumerable other areas, women have proven to be resilient, intelligent, and innovative. Their accomplishments show how far people can go when they put their minds to something and how much potential there is when obstacles are removed.

More women are taking on leadership roles in politics, which is a healthy trend that has been observed globally. At all levels of government, from presidents to mayors, women are making a bigger impact on policy and decision-making. In addition to advancing gender equality, this development guarantees that a wider array of viewpoints is considered, resulting in inclusive and thorough governance.

Women keep breaking glass ceilings in the corporate sector despite long-standing gender stereotypes to the contrary. As business owners, CEOs, and economic trailblazers, many women are stepping up to the plate. Women are now more likely to work in settings that support diversity, equal pay, and workplace flexibility, all of which contribute to an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Equal access to education is an advanced goal, and education is a key factor in women's empowerment. More and more women are going to college and thriving in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines, which have historically been male-dominated. Dismantling educational barriers allows for a more diversified pool of talent and viewpoints, which drives creativity and advancement for society.

The struggle for gender equality is ongoing, and the fact that obstacles continue to arise is a sobering reminder of this. Concerns such as gender-based violence, wage inequality, healthcare access, and underrepresentation in particular fields must be addressed immediately. The world's societies must strive to level the playing field so women can succeed without fear of bias or discrimination.

It is critical to acknowledge and welcome intersectionality as we commemorate Women's Day. Gender is just one aspect that shapes women's lived experiences; others include race, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, and more. It is crucial to use an inclusive and intersectional approach to address the specific issues experienced by various women's groups and find solutions that work for everyone.

As a sobering reminder of women's past achievements and future struggles, International Women's Day is an important annual event. A more just and inclusive world can be created when we recognise and celebrate successes, admit when we've failed, and fight for gender equality. In honour of International Women's Day, let us resolve to create communities where all women feel supported and encouraged to thrive so that they can help build a better, more equitable world.