International Women's Day originated from the early 20th-century labor and socialist movements, but why is it celebrated on March 8? In 1910, German socialist Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of an international day to recognize women's struggles and achievements at the International Socialist Women's Conference.

First held over a century ago, International Women’s Day highlights the achievements, challenges and struggles of women around the world.

A women shouts slogans during a march to mark International Women’s Day, in La Paz, Bolivia, Friday, March 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Juan Karita) Demonstrators hold a poster depicting Gisele Pélicot during an International Women’s Day protest in Madrid, Spain, Saturday, March 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)