International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 annually, as a global day to recognise the achievements of women and advocate for gender equality. In India, several landmark laws under the BNS Act provide powerful protections. Here are the top laws every woman should know:

International Women’s Day 2026: Key legal rights every woman in India must know

On the occasion of International Women's Day, let's take a look at some of the iconic Bollywood actresses who have mastered their negative roles and achieved immense popularity among fans.

International Women’s Day 2026: 5 classic Bollywood actresses who nailed negative roles

The world is celebrating Women's Day today. On the occasion of celebrating women worldwide, we have compiled a list of iconic female directors who have introduced unique and creative storylines to Indian cinema.

International Women’s Day: 5 Iconic Bollywood female directors who redefined Indian cinema with bold narratives

As the world celebrates International Women's Day, let’s take a moment to recognise some Bollywood actresses who expanded their careers from Bollywood to Hollywood and made India proud. From Priyanka Chopra to Alia Bhatt, these actresses showcased their talent and made a strong impact.

Women’s Day special: 5 Bollywood actresses who made their mark in Hollywood

Biopics based on women in Bollywood have redefined the real-life stories of struggle and resilience that included Neeraja, Shakuntala Devi, and Mary Kom, among others. 

Shakuntala Devi to Mary Kom: Bollywood biopics that brought women's stories to big screen

Hollywood has produced several biopics focusing on the lives of influential women across history, politics, arts and activism. Movies including Hidden Figures, Frida, The Iron Lady and Erin Brockovich highlight women who overcame immense obstacles. 

Hidden Figures to Erin Brockovich: Hollywood biopics telling powerful stories of women

International Women's Day 2024: The number of women in senior leadership roles across various industries has been <a href="https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GGGR_2023.pdf">rising</a> since 2016, with the media and Information &amp; Technology sectors leading the way.&nbsp;

But despite this progress, men continue to dominate the higher leadership ranks: nearly 72 per cent of Vice President positions and about 75 per cent of C-suite roles.

The impediments to women's growth in the workforce and workplace are many.&nbsp;

On International Women's Day 2024, WION reached out to women achievers across various sectors to ask: What is the one piece of advice for young girls out there who are trying to break the glass ceiling while pursuing their dreams or are simply working hard to provide for their families?

Here's what they said:<img alt="Geeta Chandran, Indian Classical Dancer and Vocalist, Padma Shri Awardee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc3819a1-22bb-42ab-af2f-74196a982236" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T122418.831_0.png" />

Geeta Chandran, Indian Classical Dancer and Vocalist, Padma Shri Awardee

Young girls today, whether in urban or rural settings, have to deal with a lot. Only the circumstances and context are different. I feel the greatest challenge comes from the family. The regular stereotypical, patriarchal response when a young girl makes a choice, that is very difficult to crack. I wish all the young girls there to take a call on this and very tactfully handle this first step which actually makes a difference in your entire life. Because the family is the first immediate environment that opposes what you decide or what you choose. I wish all the women out there the very best to move on and tactfully deal with the people around, and then step out. Break the glass ceiling.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sonam Srivastava, Founder and Fund Manager at Wright Research" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c84957a-25e8-40f5-ad14-f9d6a9e95ff7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T122702.135.png" />

Sonam Srivastava, Founder and Fund Manager at Wright Research

If I were to offer a piece of advice to young girls striving to shatter glass ceilings or diligently working to support their families, it would be this: Embrace resilience as your greatest asset. Remember, it's not about how many times you face rejection or fall; it's about how many times you're willing to stand up and move forward with even more determination.

Cultivate a mindset that sees obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow stronger. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek mentors who inspire you, and never underestimate the power of a supportive community. The glass ceiling isn't impenetrable; with perseverance and resilience, you have the power to break through it and soar to new heights.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d966212-6aca-4929-9afc-e2b1de27ef51" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T122927.686.png" />

Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism 
 
My advice to young girls would be that if you give to life, it will reciprocate and give back to you.&nbsp;Similarly, if you take from life, it will too withdraw from you. Strive to be the best version of yourself in everything you do. 
<img alt="Pallavi Katiyar, Chief Information Officer, Tech Mahindra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c01a286a-6d30-492e-9d5c-bba7a07c3387" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T123311.729.png" />

Pallavi Katiyar, Chief Information Officer, Tech Mahindra

My message to young girls and women technologists is to embrace the vast opportunities in the technology sector with confidence and determination. The industry needs your unique perspectives, creativity, and leadership to shape the future of technology. Remember, your contributions can lead to groundbreaking innovations that make a difference. Stay curious and pursue your passions with relentless ambition. Embrace your unique strengths, remain steadfast in your values, and seek out mentors and networks who support your growth. The environment may be challenging, but it offers opportunities for those willing to lead with authenticity and courage.<img alt="Neha Bagaria, Founder &amp; CEO, Herkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62c6937c-4558-4aef-a6e1-3e640f6a9220" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T123440.293.png" />

Neha Bagaria, Founder &amp; CEO, Herkey

To aspiring young women, my advice is simple but very important in today’s time. Leverage networks and communities to reach out to employers who can provide job opportunities, experts who can provide mentorship and learning, and each other to find support &amp; motivation. Speak up with confidence, champion your own growth, and face biases with determination. Building a supportive network is key. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who encourage you to reach your full potential. When faced with setbacks, embrace resilience. Reject thoughts of giving up or self-doubt and keep your eyes on your goals. Believe in the extraordinary capabilities you have. As women, we possess the strength to achieve whatever we set our minds to.<img alt="Dr Alina von Davier, Chief of Assessment at DuoLingo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e19268d-f083-4bf4-a4aa-038d91cce2dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T123540.775.png" />

Dr Alina von Davier, Chief of Assessment at Duolingo

Follow your heart. Look for what excites you. Look for a job that sparks your curiosity. Search for fun in the work that you do. That's the place where you probably will get the highest returns for the efforts you are putting in.<img alt="Rekha Mody, Gender Activist and Founder of Stree Shakti, The Parallel Force" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ec0ca8a-418b-4d56-a912-7f29161c9351" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-03-08T123641.728.png" />

Rekha Mody, Gender Activist and Founder of Stree Shakti, The Parallel Force

For the last hundred years, women have struggled for their rights and owing to&nbsp;that, many significant changes have taken place. The world today needs women's leadership much more than ever. Young girls, I just have one message for you. Think big, expand your network and at the same time, identify your mentor to support your dreams. &nbsp;

International Women's Day 2024: The number of women in senior leadership roles across various industries has been rising since 2016, with the media and Information & Technology sectors leading the way.

International Women's Day 2024: The number of women in senior leadership roles across various industries has been rising since 2016, with the media and Information & Technology sectors leading the way. But despite this progress, men continue to dominate the higher leadership ranks: nearly 72 per cent of Vice President positions and about 75 per cent of C-suite roles. The impediments to women's growth in the workforce and workplace are many. On International Women's Day 2024, WION reached out to women achievers across various sectors to ask: What is the one piece of advice for young girls out there who are trying to break the glass ceiling while pursuing their dreams or are simply working hard to provide for their families? Here's what they said: Geeta Chandran, Indian Classical Dancer and Vocalist, Padma Shri Awardee Young girls today, whether in urban or rural settings, have to deal with a lot. Only the circumstances and context are different. I feel the greatest challenge comes from the family. The regular stereotypical, patriarchal response when a young girl makes a choice, that is very difficult to crack. I wish all the young girls there to take a call on this and very tactfully handle this first step which actually makes a difference in your entire life. Because the family is the first immediate environment that opposes what you decide or what you choose. I wish all the women out there the very best to move on and tactfully deal with the people around, and then step out. Break the glass ceiling. Sonam Srivastava, Founder and Fund Manager at Wright Research If I were to offer a piece of advice to young girls striving to shatter glass ceilings or diligently working to support their families, it would be this: Embrace resilience as your greatest asset. Remember, it's not about how many times you face rejection or fall; it's about how many times you're willing to stand up and move forward with even more determination. Cultivate a mindset that sees obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow stronger. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek mentors who inspire you, and never underestimate the power of a supportive community. The glass ceiling isn't impenetrable; with perseverance and resilience, you have the power to break through it and soar to new heights. Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism My advice to young girls would be that if you give to life, it will reciprocate and give back to you. Similarly, if you take from life, it will too withdraw from you. Strive to be the best version of yourself in everything you do. Pallavi Katiyar, Chief Information Officer, Tech Mahindra My message to young girls and women technologists is to embrace the vast opportunities in the technology sector with confidence and determination. The industry needs your unique perspectives, creativity, and leadership to shape the future of technology. Remember, your contributions can lead to groundbreaking innovations that make a difference. Stay curious and pursue your passions with relentless ambition. Embrace your unique strengths, remain steadfast in your values, and seek out mentors and networks who support your growth. The environment may be challenging, but it offers opportunities for those willing to lead with authenticity and courage. Neha Bagaria, Founder & CEO, Herkey To aspiring young women, my advice is simple but very important in today’s time. Leverage networks and communities to reach out to employers who can provide job opportunities, experts who can provide mentorship and learning, and each other to find support & motivation. Speak up with confidence, champion your own growth, and face biases with determination. Building a supportive network is key. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who encourage you to reach your full potential. When faced with setbacks, embrace resilience. Reject thoughts of giving up or self-doubt and keep your eyes on your goals. Believe in the extraordinary capabilities you have. As women, we possess the strength to achieve whatever we set our minds to. Dr Alina von Davier, Chief of Assessment at Duolingo Follow your heart. Look for what excites you. Look for a job that sparks your curiosity. Search for fun in the work that you do. That's the place where you probably will get the highest returns for the efforts you are putting in. Rekha Mody, Gender Activist and Founder of Stree Shakti, The Parallel Force For the last hundred years, women have struggled for their rights and owing to that, many significant changes have taken place. The world today needs women's leadership much more than ever. Young girls, I just have one message for you. Think big, expand your network and at the same time, identify your mentor to support your dreams.

Women's Day 2024: The mantra to success is resilience and mentors, say women pioneers

Have you ever wondered what women do when they are not performing a role? How do they enjoy their free time? Most importantly, do women have as much free time as men do, to sit back and relax? These are some of the questions Surabhi Yadav is trying to explore through her Instagram page called – Project Basanti: Women at Leisure.

International Women's Day: What does women’s leisure look like?

Women have always been skilled and inventive; they have just faced numerous obstacles in getting recognition and credit for their creations. Here is our tribute to some women who were not afraid to stand up for the respect and credit they rightfully deserved.

International Womens Day: Inventions by women the world can't live without

International Women's Day meant little to Zareena (name changed) on March 8th this year. But speaking from Kabul, she still wished WION well on Women’s Day, hoping that her voice will make a difference to the current state of women in Afghanistan living under Taliban's rule.

Months after the Taliban hardliners denied Zareena and millions of other Afghan women the right to study and work, the 24-year-old law graduate from Kabul feels more helpless than ever, now that "enough time" has passed.

On December 21, 2022, when the Taliban banned women from attending universities, Zareena was scheduled to appear in an exam for a diploma course at Silo Road in Kabul. While her foreign language diploma was disrupted by Taliban administration's "new rules", she still had a degree in law to hope for a salaried job.

"I cannot pursue my goals and ambitions because of the Taliban," Zareena told WION <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">earlier in December 2022</a>.

Three months later, little has changed for Zareena and millions of Afghan women like her. In fact, the Taliban's onslaught of women's rights has taken a more aggressive turn.&nbsp;

At the time of filing this report, the Taliban diktat that women aid workers can no longer work in Afghanistan remains imposed despite global uproar against it.&nbsp;

WION first reported in January 2023 when the&nbsp;Taliban-ruled in Balkh province that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-afghan-women-fear-for-life-as-taliban-ban-male-doctors-from-treating-them-551218">male doctors</a> can no longer treat female patients.&nbsp;

On January 30, 2023, young female students were stopped from appearing in university entrance exams across the country.

Earlier this week, schools and universities reopened across Afghanistan after winter break<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-colleges-reopen-only-men-allowed-569342"> but only for men</a>. The visuals showing female students protesting to demand their right to study inside classrooms went viral worldwide. But while remarks were made in the diplomatic enclaves of New York and Geneva where key United Nations organs are headquartered, there was no noise of urgency.&nbsp;

"If women could study and have jobs in Afghanistan, they could do away with all their problems," Zareena told WION in a phone interview from Kabul on March 8th, referring to the women-only households of the war-torn country, where the expenses were previously borne by women working outside the household which no more is the case.&nbsp;

"But without a job, I can't do anything for myself, my family or my country," Zareena added, while reflecting on her months of job hunts in the Afghan capital, where she says, women are being denied jobs because of the "new rules" imposed by the Taliban hardliners.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals

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Asked what message she has for the rest of the world, Zareena referred to the mental distress Taliban's anti-women tyranny is causing to Afghan women.&nbsp;

"Women of Afghanistan need jobs. We need to study to live a good life. We cannot do any job we want," she said.

Since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, the country has become the most repressive in the world for women and girls, deprived of many of their basic rights, the United Nations said on Wednesday. About 11.6 million Afghan women and girls are in need of humanitarian assistance, estimates say, depicting the current status&nbsp;of Zareena and her fellow Afghan female compatriots.&nbsp;

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

International Women's Day meant little to Zareena (name changed) on March 8th this year. But speaking from Kabul, she still wished WION well on Women’s Day, hoping that her voice will make a difference to the current state of women in Afghanistan living under Taliban's rule.

International Women's Day meant little to Zareena (name changed) on March 8th this year. But speaking from Kabul, she still wished WION well on Women’s Day, hoping that her voice will make a difference to the current state of women in Afghanistan living under Taliban's rule. Months after the Taliban hardliners denied Zareena and millions of other Afghan women the right to study and work, the 24-year-old law graduate from Kabul feels more helpless than ever, now that "enough time" has passed. On December 21, 2022, when the Taliban banned women from attending universities, Zareena was scheduled to appear in an exam for a diploma course at Silo Road in Kabul. While her foreign language diploma was disrupted by Taliban administration's "new rules", she still had a degree in law to hope for a salaried job. "I cannot pursue my goals and ambitions because of the Taliban," Zareena told WION earlier in December 2022. Three months later, little has changed for Zareena and millions of Afghan women like her. In fact, the Taliban's onslaught of women's rights has taken a more aggressive turn. At the time of filing this report, the Taliban diktat that women aid workers can no longer work in Afghanistan remains imposed despite global uproar against it. WION first reported in January 2023 when the Taliban-ruled in Balkh province that male doctors can no longer treat female patients. On January 30, 2023, young female students were stopped from appearing in university entrance exams across the country. Earlier this week, schools and universities reopened across Afghanistan after winter break but only for men. The visuals showing female students protesting to demand their right to study inside classrooms went viral worldwide. But while remarks were made in the diplomatic enclaves of New York and Geneva where key United Nations organs are headquartered, there was no noise of urgency. "If women could study and have jobs in Afghanistan, they could do away with all their problems," Zareena told WION in a phone interview from Kabul on March 8th, referring to the women-only households of the war-torn country, where the expenses were previously borne by women working outside the household which no more is the case. "But without a job, I can't do anything for myself, my family or my country," Zareena added, while reflecting on her months of job hunts in the Afghan capital, where she says, women are being denied jobs because of the "new rules" imposed by the Taliban hardliners. ALSO WATCH | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × Asked what message she has for the rest of the world, Zareena referred to the mental distress Taliban's anti-women tyranny is causing to Afghan women. "Women of Afghanistan need jobs. We need to study to live a good life. We cannot do any job we want," she said. Since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, the country has become the most repressive in the world for women and girls, deprived of many of their basic rights, the United Nations said on Wednesday. About 11.6 million Afghan women and girls are in need of humanitarian assistance, estimates say, depicting the current status of Zareena and her fellow Afghan female compatriots. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive | 'We can't serve our family, nation': Why Women's Day held little significance in Afghanistan

International Women's Day | Amrita Pritam and Asma Jahangir: The fabulous Senoritas of South Asia | In pics

Komal Rani, Ishrat and Vibhuti belong to Uttar Pradesh's hinterlands where they studied in government primary schools and had grim chances of pursuing higher education.

However, their destinies changed when they enrolled at VidyaGyan Leadership Academy which provides free world-class education to underprivileged meritorious students from families with an annual income of less than a lakh.

Komal Rani from Rasoolpur Madhi village of Meerut district could have never imagined that she would one day work as a Manager with Kinara Capital, a digital lending company in the vibrant city of Bengaluru.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breakthebias-this-is-why-we-celebrate-international-womens-day-460133">&nbsp;#BreakTheBias: This is why we celebrate International Women's Day</a>

Till the age of 12, she worked in the local village to earn a measly income to support her family of seven members financially.

However, she was always passionate about education, and it was this passion that helped her secure admission at VidyaGyan.

Komal went on to study the B. Com programme at Gargi College of Delhi University for her undergraduate studies and pursued an MBA from Vedica Scholars Programme for women. As an independent young woman, she hopes to help uplift her family out of poverty and be the change agent that she always aspired to be.

Ishrat' s story is no different. Daughter of a daily wager from the Sirsali village of Baghpat district, Ishrat comes from an extremely conservative background where education for girl children is frowned upon.

Seeing her zest for learning, her parents allowed her to take admission at VidyaGyan and eventually study at Gargi College in Delhi University.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-womens-day-movies-that-celebrate-powerful-sheroes-in-indian-cinema-459800">Women's Day: Movies that celebrate powerful sheroes in Indian cinema</a>

Ishrat has now secured a job with Byju's. Empowered by her education, she is financially independent and has impressed upon her family the importance of a good education. She is preparing for a bank exam now.

Her success has made her a role model and torchbearer of women empowerment within her community.

Another inspiring story is of Vibhuti who lost her father at a very young age.

Brought up single-handedly by her mother, she was encouraged to pursue education and study at a residential school despite strong opposition from her village community.

Watch |&nbsp;International Women's Day: How women protest in Peru against gender-based violence

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-womens-day-how-women-protest-in-peru-against-gender-based-violence-460121/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Vibhuti has secured an engineering degree in Computer Science, and works with IBM as an Application Developer in Gurugram.

From dreamers to achievers, these women represent the larger community of young women of rural India who are talented and ready to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with their urban counterparts.

Komal Rani, Ishrat and Vibhuti belong to Uttar Pradesh's hinterlands where they studied in government primary schools and had grim chances of pursuing higher education.

Komal Rani, Ishrat and Vibhuti belong to Uttar Pradesh's hinterlands where they studied in government primary schools and had grim chances of pursuing higher education. However, their destinies changed when they enrolled at VidyaGyan Leadership Academy which provides free world-class education to underprivileged meritorious students from families with an annual income of less than a lakh. Komal Rani from Rasoolpur Madhi village of Meerut district could have never imagined that she would one day work as a Manager with Kinara Capital, a digital lending company in the vibrant city of Bengaluru. Also read | #BreakTheBias: This is why we celebrate International Women's Day Till the age of 12, she worked in the local village to earn a measly income to support her family of seven members financially. However, she was always passionate about education, and it was this passion that helped her secure admission at VidyaGyan. Komal went on to study the B. Com programme at Gargi College of Delhi University for her undergraduate studies and pursued an MBA from Vedica Scholars Programme for women. As an independent young woman, she hopes to help uplift her family out of poverty and be the change agent that she always aspired to be. Ishrat' s story is no different. Daughter of a daily wager from the Sirsali village of Baghpat district, Ishrat comes from an extremely conservative background where education for girl children is frowned upon. Seeing her zest for learning, her parents allowed her to take admission at VidyaGyan and eventually study at Gargi College in Delhi University. Also read | Women's Day: Movies that celebrate powerful sheroes in Indian cinema Ishrat has now secured a job with Byju's. Empowered by her education, she is financially independent and has impressed upon her family the importance of a good education. She is preparing for a bank exam now. Her success has made her a role model and torchbearer of women empowerment within her community. Another inspiring story is of Vibhuti who lost her father at a very young age. Brought up single-handedly by her mother, she was encouraged to pursue education and study at a residential school despite strong opposition from her village community. Watch | International Women's Day: How women protest in Peru against gender-based violence Vibhuti has secured an engineering degree in Computer Science, and works with IBM as an Application Developer in Gurugram. From dreamers to achievers, these women represent the larger community of young women of rural India who are talented and ready to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with their urban counterparts.

International Women's Day: How these women realised their dreams

On the occasion of International Women's Day, an article in the Global Strat view argued that the US should recognize the Bangladeshi genocide and organised rape committed by the Pakistani Army in 1971, and impose sanctions on Pakistan for gross human rights violations.

The stories of Bengali women being tied to trees and gang-raped, organs hacked off, dumped in mass graves, and held in Pakistani rape camps are all testimony to the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army, said Priya Saha, Executive Director of Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) writing in Global Strat View.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-media-remains-hostage-to-repressive-tactics-says-rights-commission-460062">Pakistani media remains hostage to repressive tactics, says rights commission</a>

The Pakistani Army initiated a choreographed annihilation of Bengalis when the Awami League party of East Pakistan led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman decisively won the 1970 elections and pressed ahead to form the government in erstwhile united Pakistan.

The then military regime of Yahya Khan annulled the election results, fearing the prospect of handing over the reins to what they perceived as inferior Bengalis, the article said.In March 1971, the Pakistani Army launched 'Operation Searchlight', which kickstarted a series of targeted killings, massacres, and organised rape of women in the then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

Archer Blood, the then US Counsel General in Dhaka, sent a telegram on April 6, 1971, to his superiors in Washington, which came to be known as "The Blood Telegram". The telegram denounced the inaction of the then US administration on the brutal genocide taking place in then East Pakistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/congress-gives-final-approval-to-make-lynching-a-hate-crime-460129">US Congress gives final approval to make lynching a hate crime</a>

The Pakistani Army committed mass rape of Bengali women with intent to destroy their faith, social position, and self-esteem, the article said, adding that one of the reasons for the mass rapes was to undermine Bengali society through "dishonouring" of Bengali women and that some of the victims were raped until they died, citing Adam Jones, a political scientist.

Jenneke Arens, a Dutch author, who lived in Bangladesh from 1973 to 1975 for her research work, described the rape of Hindu minority women by the Pakistani military as a deliberate attempt to destroy an ethnic group since many of those assaulted were raped, murdered, and then bayoneted in the genitalia, the article cited.

"The Pakistan Army is an Islamic institution, its soldiers are warriors of God and ...they rape in God's name. Therefore the raping of girls and women, the forced bodily transgressions, and the mutilations are considered to be a triumph for good," the article said quoting a 2012 Case Study by Jessica Lee Rehman of California University.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia demands guarantee from the US as Vienna talks reach a critical stage

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Bengalis were deemed to have inherited Hindu features which were reasons enough to brand them as heretical targets for savage activities, the article further said.

The editorial went on to describe several more gory details of the Bangladeshi genocide and rape citing scholarly works of journalists who were present in Bangladesh in 1971. It further referred to the estimations of the number of women raped based on the number of abortions and suicides in the immediate aftermath of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.

The official figure that the Bangladesh government recognizes states that around 200,000 women were raped, while the estimates of Bangladeshis killed during the time stand up to 3 million.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, an article in the Global Strat view argued that the US should recognize the Bangladeshi genocide and organised rape committed by the Pakistani Army in 1971, and impose sanctions on Pakistan for gross human rights violations.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, an article in the Global Strat view argued that the US should recognize the Bangladeshi genocide and organised rape committed by the Pakistani Army in 1971, and impose sanctions on Pakistan for gross human rights violations. The stories of Bengali women being tied to trees and gang-raped, organs hacked off, dumped in mass graves, and held in Pakistani rape camps are all testimony to the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army, said Priya Saha, Executive Director of Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) writing in Global Strat View. Also read | Pakistani media remains hostage to repressive tactics, says rights commission The Pakistani Army initiated a choreographed annihilation of Bengalis when the Awami League party of East Pakistan led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman decisively won the 1970 elections and pressed ahead to form the government in erstwhile united Pakistan. The then military regime of Yahya Khan annulled the election results, fearing the prospect of handing over the reins to what they perceived as inferior Bengalis, the article said.In March 1971, the Pakistani Army launched 'Operation Searchlight', which kickstarted a series of targeted killings, massacres, and organised rape of women in the then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Archer Blood, the then US Counsel General in Dhaka, sent a telegram on April 6, 1971, to his superiors in Washington, which came to be known as "The Blood Telegram". The telegram denounced the inaction of the then US administration on the brutal genocide taking place in then East Pakistan. Also read | US Congress gives final approval to make lynching a hate crime The Pakistani Army committed mass rape of Bengali women with intent to destroy their faith, social position, and self-esteem, the article said, adding that one of the reasons for the mass rapes was to undermine Bengali society through "dishonouring" of Bengali women and that some of the victims were raped until they died, citing Adam Jones, a political scientist. Jenneke Arens, a Dutch author, who lived in Bangladesh from 1973 to 1975 for her research work, described the rape of Hindu minority women by the Pakistani military as a deliberate attempt to destroy an ethnic group since many of those assaulted were raped, murdered, and then bayoneted in the genitalia, the article cited. "The Pakistan Army is an Islamic institution, its soldiers are warriors of God and ...they rape in God's name. Therefore the raping of girls and women, the forced bodily transgressions, and the mutilations are considered to be a triumph for good," the article said quoting a 2012 Case Study by Jessica Lee Rehman of California University. Watch | Russia demands guarantee from the US as Vienna talks reach a critical stage Bengalis were deemed to have inherited Hindu features which were reasons enough to brand them as heretical targets for savage activities, the article further said. The editorial went on to describe several more gory details of the Bangladeshi genocide and rape citing scholarly works of journalists who were present in Bangladesh in 1971. It further referred to the estimations of the number of women raped based on the number of abortions and suicides in the immediate aftermath of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The official figure that the Bangladesh government recognizes states that around 200,000 women were raped, while the estimates of Bangladeshis killed during the time stand up to 3 million.

International Women's Day: US should impose sanctions on Pakistan for Bangladeshi genocide

Women who graced outer space and changed it forever

The year is 2021, and women are still treated as inferior and as the weaker gender. Women surely are better off today, but when will they be treated as equals? WION's Palki asks some bitter questions on International Womens Day.

Gravitas: International Women's Day

Women across Mexico took to the streets on International Women's Day to protest the crisis of violence they face on a daily basis. Gender violence in Mexico has become a major issue in recent years.

Mexico: Protests against violence towards women on International Women's Day

More than three years after the massive social media-led #MeToo movement on sexual misconduct, which started in Hollywood and swept all walks of life across the world, much remains to be done in addressing the problem. Are women's complaints of sexual harrassment at workplace being addressed?

Global firms lag on sex harassment, says report

The biggest brands and advertisers regale us with stories of empowered women during International Women's Day but what about the women themselves? WION brings you the voices of women from around the world and different walks of life and all about what they want.

Women around the globe voice their hopes for 2021

World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart on Monday said that there are still almost 40 countries where women can be fired from their jobs simply for getting pregnant.

Reinhart said the economic fallout from covid-19 had been “very regressive,” hitting the most vulnerable hardest, including women and girls. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-child-brides-10-million-more-girls-can-be-pushed-into-child-marriage-warns-unicef-report-368823">Covid child brides: 10 million more girls can be pushed into child marriage, warns Unicef report</a> 
 
“We are seeing big setbacks on schooling, girls are taken out that will not return,” said Reinhart, speaking on International Women’s Day.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-firms-lag-on-sex-harassment-says-report-368806/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The pandemic has contributed to an increase in violence against women and is reinforcing gender inequality in many countries, with women on average having roughly three-quarters of the legal rights of men, according to the World Bank.

Meanwhile, According to a new analysis released by Unicef, &nbsp;the outsized impact Covid-19 has had on women in some countries could result in an additional 10 million child marriages in this decade.

"School closures, economic stress, service disruptions, pregnancy and parental deaths due to the pandemic are putting the most vulnerable girls at increased risk of child marriage," said a study titled "Covid-19: A threat to progress against child marriage."

That trend, if confirmed, would represent a serious retreat from recent years of progress against child marriage.

In the last 10 years, according to the study, the proportion of young women globally who were married as children had declined by 15 per cent, from nearly one in four to one in five.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart on Monday said that there are still almost 40 countries where women can be fired from their jobs simply for getting pregnant.

World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart on Monday said that there are still almost 40 countries where women can be fired from their jobs simply for getting pregnant. Reinhart said the economic fallout from covid-19 had been “very regressive,” hitting the most vulnerable hardest, including women and girls. Covid child brides: 10 million more girls can be pushed into child marriage, warns Unicef report “We are seeing big setbacks on schooling, girls are taken out that will not return,” said Reinhart, speaking on International Women’s Day. The pandemic has contributed to an increase in violence against women and is reinforcing gender inequality in many countries, with women on average having roughly three-quarters of the legal rights of men, according to the World Bank. Meanwhile, According to a new analysis released by Unicef, the outsized impact Covid-19 has had on women in some countries could result in an additional 10 million child marriages in this decade. "School closures, economic stress, service disruptions, pregnancy and parental deaths due to the pandemic are putting the most vulnerable girls at increased risk of child marriage," said a study titled "Covid-19: A threat to progress against child marriage." That trend, if confirmed, would represent a serious retreat from recent years of progress against child marriage. In the last 10 years, according to the study, the proportion of young women globally who were married as children had declined by 15 per cent, from nearly one in four to one in five. (With inputs from agencies)

Women can be fired for pregnancy in 40 nations, says World Bank Chief Economist

International Women's Day is around the corner, and marketing firms are leaving no stone unturned to ensure people -- irresepective of the gender -- celebrate it with full fervour.

But how did it start? And how has it survived?

Let's take a look.

March 8 as a special day for women began as a labour movement.

The seeds were planted in 1908, when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay and the right to vote. It was the Socialist Party of America who declared the first National Woman's Day, in 1909.

Then in 1910, the idea to make the day international was tabled during a conference. It came from a woman called Clara Zetkin. There were 100 women there, from 17 countries, and they agreed on her suggestion unanimously.

It was first celebrated in 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. The centenary was celebrated in 2011, so this year we're technically celebrating the 110th International Women's Day.

Things were made official in 1975 when the United Nations started celebrating the day. The first theme adopted by the UN (in 1996) was "Celebrating the past, Planning for the Future".

The UN officially recognised Women's Day in 1977 -- the day was meant to create awareness about women's issues.

But today, women are still battling Victorian-era mentality. It's 2021, and women are still fighting for the most basic primitive of rights.

REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

In a few countries, women do not even have the basic sexual and reproductive rights. And some are still fighting for the right to choice.

As many as 90 million women of reproductive age live in countries that prohibit abortion -- that is, a woman is not allowed to make decisions about her own body.

She is denied access to healthcare, contraception; motherhood is forced on her. And no exception is made in cases of rape. This happens even in developed countries like Malta and San Marino.

Forty-one per cent of women live in countries with restrictive abortion laws.&nbsp;

Well, abortion is a human right. A woman should be able to decide if she wants to have children, when she wants to have them, and with whom, and how many...

At least 23,000 women die every year because of unsafe abortions.

So if anyone is looking to help women on IWD, he or she should campaign against restrictive laws, speak up in favour of women's rights, and speak up in support of a woman's freedom of movement.

Most animals have it, but women don't.

RIGHT TO LIVE. And the right to live on our own terms.

In Iran, a woman needs her husband's permission to travel abroad. In Saudi Arabia, a woman needs a man's permission to leave a prison in case she is detained.

Many women across the world are killed, or forced into taking their own lives.

In India, 23-year-old Ayesha Bano killed herself by jumping into the Sabarmati river. She had filed a dowry harrassment case against her husband and his family.

In Israel, 35-year-old Diana Raz was shot by her police officer husband. He said, "I do not know what went through my mind."

In India again, a woman was burnt alive by her family members. Reports say the family had hired a contract killer.

Violence against women is real. Six women are killed every hour by men around the world. As many as 137 women are killed every day by a partner or family member.

Femicide has worsened during the pandemic, and women are discretely seeking help over Zoom calls.

According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), 45% of women in West Asia and North Africa are victims of physical or sexual violence. The situtation in South Asia is hardly better -- 38 per cent of women suffer physical or sexual violence; North America -- 32 per cent; Sub-Saharan Africa -- 31 per cent; Latin America and the Caribbean -- 27 per cent; West Europe -- 22 per cent.

What we mean to say is on March 8, people should ditch the flowers, and call out those who think it is okay to abuse women.

EDUCATION

Women today are still fighting for education, to become independent.

When a girl is born in India, parents prefer saving for her marriage.

You will be surprised to know this mindset goes beyond Indian borders. Only 66 per cent of countries have gender parity in primary education.

In upper secondary education, the number drops to 25 per cent.

On October 9, 2012, Malala Yousafzai was shot at by the Taliban. She was just 15. Her fault? She was too outspoken for Pakistan's SWAT valley.

Across the border, in Afghanistan, more than 210 girls' schools were closed down in the year 2016.

In Mali, girls have been sexually violated for failing to adhere to dress codes imposed by armed groups. In Somalia, girls were kidnapped from schools to become wives of al-Shabaab fighters.

Today, at least 132 millions girls are out of school. They are being denied a future, financial independence, and the very basic right to education.

This women's day, people should help girls win the war waged on their education.

Another major battle that women are are fighting is SUFFRAGE.

When women in the US were given the right to vote in 1920, one woman celebrating the constitutional amendment said, "We cannot change the psychology of the world in a day. But that change will be profound and lasting."

It's 2021; 100 years have passed.

On paper, every woman today has the right to vote. In practice, they're still denied a voice. There are only men in Kuwait's parliamentary committee for women.

Estimates say it could take 18 years to close Pakistan's voting gender gap. In Afghanistan, many women cannot vote because of mandatory photo screening at polling stations.

RIGHT TO EQUALITY

On paper, there is a convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women. In reality, women are discriminated against -- both at home and at work. There is a pay-gap. Women earn 77 per cent of what men do for the same work. This is according to Amnesty International.

Women do not hold enough positions of power -- only 25% of parliamentarians today are women.

There are only 21 women heads of states or heads of government; only 14 countries have 50 per cent or more women in cabinet. This is accoring to UN women.

The UN has never had a woman general secretary.

And this is not about competence or tokenism.

Women perform 2.6 times more unpaid domestic work than men, and are 18 per cent less likely to get promoted in their jobs. This is according to Mc-Kinsey and Company.

So, this IWD, instead of a fancy candle light dinner, start a movement to ensure that your partner is paid what she is entitled to.

Only six countries give men and women equal legal rights. But marital rape is legal in 36 countries, including India.

Women do not want flowers. They want their rights.

In Nigeria, a man is legally allowed to hit his wife. The law says nothing is an offence if done by a husband for the purpose of correcting his wife.

In El Salvador, a woman can be jailed for miscarriage.

In 39 countries, laws prevent women from inheriting the same porportion of assets as men. In Syria and Egypt, penal codes allow a lesser punishment for honour killings.

So what exactly are we celebrating? Feminism is not a pejorative. We should all be feminists.

It's time for a meaningful change.

A very happy Women's Day to you.

International Women's Day is around the corner, and marketing firms are leaving no stone unturned to ensure people -- irresepective of the gender -- celebrate it with full fervour.

International Women's Day is around the corner, and marketing firms are leaving no stone unturned to ensure people -- irresepective of the gender -- celebrate it with full fervour. But how did it start? And how has it survived? Let's take a look. March 8 as a special day for women began as a labour movement. The seeds were planted in 1908, when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay and the right to vote. It was the Socialist Party of America who declared the first National Woman's Day, in 1909. Then in 1910, the idea to make the day international was tabled during a conference. It came from a woman called Clara Zetkin. There were 100 women there, from 17 countries, and they agreed on her suggestion unanimously. It was first celebrated in 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. The centenary was celebrated in 2011, so this year we're technically celebrating the 110th International Women's Day. Things were made official in 1975 when the United Nations started celebrating the day. The first theme adopted by the UN (in 1996) was "Celebrating the past, Planning for the Future". The UN officially recognised Women's Day in 1977 -- the day was meant to create awareness about women's issues. But today, women are still battling Victorian-era mentality. It's 2021, and women are still fighting for the most basic primitive of rights. REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS In a few countries, women do not even have the basic sexual and reproductive rights. And some are still fighting for the right to choice. As many as 90 million women of reproductive age live in countries that prohibit abortion -- that is, a woman is not allowed to make decisions about her own body. She is denied access to healthcare, contraception; motherhood is forced on her. And no exception is made in cases of rape. This happens even in developed countries like Malta and San Marino. Forty-one per cent of women live in countries with restrictive abortion laws. Well, abortion is a human right. A woman should be able to decide if she wants to have children, when she wants to have them, and with whom, and how many... At least 23,000 women die every year because of unsafe abortions. So if anyone is looking to help women on IWD, he or she should campaign against restrictive laws, speak up in favour of women's rights, and speak up in support of a woman's freedom of movement. Most animals have it, but women don't. RIGHT TO LIVE. And the right to live on our own terms. In Iran, a woman needs her husband's permission to travel abroad. In Saudi Arabia, a woman needs a man's permission to leave a prison in case she is detained. Many women across the world are killed, or forced into taking their own lives. In India, 23-year-old Ayesha Bano killed herself by jumping into the Sabarmati river. She had filed a dowry harrassment case against her husband and his family. In Israel, 35-year-old Diana Raz was shot by her police officer husband. He said, "I do not know what went through my mind." In India again, a woman was burnt alive by her family members. Reports say the family had hired a contract killer. Violence against women is real. Six women are killed every hour by men around the world. As many as 137 women are killed every day by a partner or family member. Femicide has worsened during the pandemic, and women are discretely seeking help over Zoom calls. According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), 45% of women in West Asia and North Africa are victims of physical or sexual violence. The situtation in South Asia is hardly better -- 38 per cent of women suffer physical or sexual violence; North America -- 32 per cent; Sub-Saharan Africa -- 31 per cent; Latin America and the Caribbean -- 27 per cent; West Europe -- 22 per cent. What we mean to say is on March 8, people should ditch the flowers, and call out those who think it is okay to abuse women. EDUCATION Women today are still fighting for education, to become independent. When a girl is born in India, parents prefer saving for her marriage. You will be surprised to know this mindset goes beyond Indian borders. Only 66 per cent of countries have gender parity in primary education. In upper secondary education, the number drops to 25 per cent. On October 9, 2012, Malala Yousafzai was shot at by the Taliban. She was just 15. Her fault? She was too outspoken for Pakistan's SWAT valley. Across the border, in Afghanistan, more than 210 girls' schools were closed down in the year 2016. In Mali, girls have been sexually violated for failing to adhere to dress codes imposed by armed groups. In Somalia, girls were kidnapped from schools to become wives of al-Shabaab fighters. Today, at least 132 millions girls are out of school. They are being denied a future, financial independence, and the very basic right to education. This women's day, people should help girls win the war waged on their education. Another major battle that women are are fighting is SUFFRAGE. When women in the US were given the right to vote in 1920, one woman celebrating the constitutional amendment said, "We cannot change the psychology of the world in a day. But that change will be profound and lasting." It's 2021; 100 years have passed. On paper, every woman today has the right to vote. In practice, they're still denied a voice. There are only men in Kuwait's parliamentary committee for women. Estimates say it could take 18 years to close Pakistan's voting gender gap. In Afghanistan, many women cannot vote because of mandatory photo screening at polling stations. RIGHT TO EQUALITY On paper, there is a convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women. In reality, women are discriminated against -- both at home and at work. There is a pay-gap. Women earn 77 per cent of what men do for the same work. This is according to Amnesty International. Women do not hold enough positions of power -- only 25% of parliamentarians today are women. There are only 21 women heads of states or heads of government; only 14 countries have 50 per cent or more women in cabinet. This is accoring to UN women. The UN has never had a woman general secretary. And this is not about competence or tokenism. Women perform 2.6 times more unpaid domestic work than men, and are 18 per cent less likely to get promoted in their jobs. This is according to Mc-Kinsey and Company. So, this IWD, instead of a fancy candle light dinner, start a movement to ensure that your partner is paid what she is entitled to. Only six countries give men and women equal legal rights. But marital rape is legal in 36 countries, including India. Women do not want flowers. They want their rights. In Nigeria, a man is legally allowed to hit his wife. The law says nothing is an offence if done by a husband for the purpose of correcting his wife. In El Salvador, a woman can be jailed for miscarriage. In 39 countries, laws prevent women from inheriting the same porportion of assets as men. In Syria and Egypt, penal codes allow a lesser punishment for honour killings. So what exactly are we celebrating? Feminism is not a pejorative. We should all be feminists. It's time for a meaningful change. A very happy Women's Day to you.

International Women’s Day: The history, present and a possible future

To mark International Women’s Day on Sunday, thousands of women took to the streets of Pakistan and marched through the capital of Islamabad. Stone, shoes pelted on them.

WION Fineprint: Stones,shoes greet to Pakistani women

President Vladimir Putin's men marked International Women's Day by holding beauty pageants for women in the armed forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aurat-march-islamists-hurl-stones-and-shoes-at-womens-day-marchers-in-islamabad-285135">Also Read: Islamists hurl stones and shoes at Women's Day marchers in Islamabad&nbsp;</a>

While the world was talking about gender equality on March 8, the Russian military was reinstating gender-based stereotypes.

The Russian military held a beauty contest for women in the armed forces. One such contest was called "beauty of the airborne forces"&nbsp;in which women paratroopers had to apparently demonstrate their beauty, aesthetic excellence and spiritual properties.

Russia's missile force celebrated International Women's Day by organising the "makeup under camouflage" contest.&nbsp;

Women were marked on their ability to cook three-low calorie meals. A similar pageant was organised by Russia's Black Sea fleet.&nbsp;

It is the same fleet that calls its women "military persons of the weaker sex".

The Kursk police trampled on gender equality by asking its women officers to walk down the ramp.&nbsp;

This despite the fact that the erstwhile Soviet Union was the first country to make international Women's Day an official holiday in 1965.

President Vladimir Putin's men marked International Women's Day by holding beauty pageants for women in the armed forces. Also Read: Islamists hurl stones and shoes at Women's Day marchers in Islamabad While the world was talking about gender equality on March 8, the Russian military was reinstating gender-based stereotypes.

President Vladimir Putin's men marked International Women's Day by holding beauty pageants for women in the armed forces. Also Read: Islamists hurl stones and shoes at Women's Day marchers in Islamabad While the world was talking about gender equality on March 8, the Russian military was reinstating gender-based stereotypes. The Russian military held a beauty contest for women in the armed forces. One such contest was called "beauty of the airborne forces" in which women paratroopers had to apparently demonstrate their beauty, aesthetic excellence and spiritual properties. Russia's missile force celebrated International Women's Day by organising the "makeup under camouflage" contest. Women were marked on their ability to cook three-low calorie meals. A similar pageant was organised by Russia's Black Sea fleet. It is the same fleet that calls its women "military persons of the weaker sex". The Kursk police trampled on gender equality by asking its women officers to walk down the ramp. This despite the fact that the erstwhile Soviet Union was the first country to make international Women's Day an official holiday in 1965.

Putin's military in sexism row over beauty pageant for women in armed forces on Women's Day

International Women's Day Special: Nitika Kaul Dhoundiyal was shattered when she came to know that her husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal was martyred during an operation against the terrorists that took place following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. But now, Nitika has summed up the courage and has decided to follow the footsteps of her late husband. Dhoundiyal is all set to join the Indian Army. She has cleared Services Selection Board (SSB) exam necessary to join the Army. She has also got a call letter from Officers Training Academy or OTA, Chennai for joining as an officer in the technical wing of Indian Army. On the occasion of International Women's Day, she fits as the perfect example for hashtag 'She Inspires Us' which PM Narendra Modi tweeted.

International Women's Day 2020: Pulwama Terror Attack martyr's wife to don Indian Army uniform to fulfil husband's dreams

Thousands of people took to the streets of Brazil's largest cities on Friday to mark International Women's Day and denounce gender violence and sexual discrimination.

Brazil has the fifth highest rate of femicide in the world, and last year elected right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro, who has repeatedly used rhetoric widely seen as sexist and racist.

A wave of protesters clad in purple called for an end to gender-based violence, equal pay, and abortion rights. There were also loud calls and chants for increased female solidarity among the demonstrators, most of whom were women.&nbsp;

In the last year in Brazil, more than 16 million women above the age of 16 faced some kind of violence and of them, 536 were victims of physical aggression every hour, according to a study released in February by the Brazilian Forum of Public Security and the Datafolha research center.

Many demonstrators carried banners and wore shirts paying tribute to Brazilian councilwoman and activist Marielle Franco, who was assassinated almost a year ago in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, a crime that remains unsolved. Franco was a vocal defender of human rights and critic of police brutality in Brazil.

Demonstrators also carried a bust of Franco as well as one of Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, another icon of feminism in Latin America.&nbsp;

The black feminist movement was also strongly represented at the rally in Rio.&nbsp;

One of the protesters, Silvia de Mendoza, told EFE that she had joined the protest to "claim her right to fight against fascism and for the life and rights of women".&nbsp;

While it was a primarily feminist march, there was also a strong anti-fascist sentiment, with chants against the current president Bolsonaro heard throughout, as well as clear support for former left-wing president Lula Da Silva, who was jailed last year on corruption charges.

In Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city, the demonstrations to commemorate International Women's Day started around 6:30 pm in front of the iconic art museum in the city (MAFF), where slogans were chanted against President Jair Bolsonaro, pension reform and violence against women.

More than 11,000 Brazilian women have filed the report of violence to police in the first two months of this year, a 19.9 percent increase compared to the same period last year, the government said Friday.

Thousands of people took to the streets of Brazil's largest cities on Friday to mark International Women's Day and denounce gender violence and sexual discrimination.

Thousands of people took to the streets of Brazil's largest cities on Friday to mark International Women's Day and denounce gender violence and sexual discrimination. Brazil has the fifth highest rate of femicide in the world, and last year elected right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro, who has repeatedly used rhetoric widely seen as sexist and racist. A wave of protesters clad in purple called for an end to gender-based violence, equal pay, and abortion rights. There were also loud calls and chants for increased female solidarity among the demonstrators, most of whom were women. In the last year in Brazil, more than 16 million women above the age of 16 faced some kind of violence and of them, 536 were victims of physical aggression every hour, according to a study released in February by the Brazilian Forum of Public Security and the Datafolha research center. Many demonstrators carried banners and wore shirts paying tribute to Brazilian councilwoman and activist Marielle Franco, who was assassinated almost a year ago in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, a crime that remains unsolved. Franco was a vocal defender of human rights and critic of police brutality in Brazil. Demonstrators also carried a bust of Franco as well as one of Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, another icon of feminism in Latin America. The black feminist movement was also strongly represented at the rally in Rio. One of the protesters, Silvia de Mendoza, told EFE that she had joined the protest to "claim her right to fight against fascism and for the life and rights of women". While it was a primarily feminist march, there was also a strong anti-fascist sentiment, with chants against the current president Bolsonaro heard throughout, as well as clear support for former left-wing president Lula Da Silva, who was jailed last year on corruption charges. In Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city, the demonstrations to commemorate International Women's Day started around 6:30 pm in front of the iconic art museum in the city (MAFF), where slogans were chanted against President Jair Bolsonaro, pension reform and violence against women. More than 11,000 Brazilian women have filed the report of violence to police in the first two months of this year, a 19.9 percent increase compared to the same period last year, the government said Friday.

Thousands march in Brazil for women's rights, against Brazilian government

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