International Women's Day
8 March
Background
International Women's Day celebrates women's economic, political and social achievements and is an opportunity to renew calls for gender equality and women's empowerment. In 2012, the UN theme is "Empower rural women: end hunger and poverty".
Lack of access to health care and to education, gender inequality and limited access to credit pose challenges for women, particularly those in rural areas. On International Women's Day, WHO reinforces its commitment to addressing gender inequality, promoting women's empowerment and improving their health at all stages of life – from birth, childhood, adolescence, during pregnancy and childbirth through adulthood and older age.
Latest news and press releases
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International Women's Day 2013: Responding to epidemic of violence against women
7 March 2013 -
WHO marks International Women's Day by stressing "Empower rural women: end hunger and poverty"
7 March 2012