Across the world, International Women's Day is marked in a plethora of ways, from flowers to political protests. In Russia, the day has historical significance, following women-led demonstrations that contributed to the 1917 Russian Revolution. However, modern celebrations have largely moved away from activism, resembling a mix of Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, with men running around to buy gifts for women. However, in 2019, Russian newspaper Kommersant ran a story titled: “Thank you for the flowers, but I demand respect.”
Flowers are also central to Women's Day celebrations in Italy and France. Yellow mimosas are the symbol of Festa della Donna; representing female strength and solidarity, this tradition believed to have originated in Rome after World War II. The food-oriented country even extends the vibrant yellow theme to cakes and pasta. In France, they give violets and lilies of the valley, but regardless of the flower, the sentiment remains the same.
China has recognised International Women's Day since 1949, but Girl’s Day is March 7. However, feminist activism remains restricted, with eight women arrested in 2015 for planning an anti-sexual harassment protest on IWD. While the government have tended to emphasise women’s beauty and “selfless” contributions, there have been gestures of progress, such as pink zebra crossings with red hearts and viral state media critiquing traditional gender norms.
In Nicaragua, women’s rights are in “sharp decline” , with Nicaraguan women unable to demonstrate in the streets due to the de facto police state. The last time these women demanded recognition of their rights was on March 8, 2018, but since then, the Ortega and Murillo regime has prohibited protests. This year will mark seven years without women being able to publicly demand their rights.
In contrast, some countries, including Argentina, Australia and Spain, observe International Women's Day as a politically active day. Australians have marked IWD for decades, with marches becoming widespread in the 1970s. Today, panel discussions, breakfasts, and events featuring prominent women in their fields, calling for more representation, equality, and diversity.
Spain has seen unexpectedly large-scale activism, with the 2018 general strike drawing over five million participants. While mass strikes are not necessarily the focus of future International Women’s Days, Spaniards are clear in their aim to increasingly focus on rights for women and girls.
Whether running to buy mimosas and violets or taking to the streets in protest, International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality. As we honour the women in our lives, we also acknowledge those unable to fight for themselves.