naistenpäivä

Naistenpäivä, commonly known as International Women's Day, is observed on 8 March in many countries as a day to celebrate women's achievements and to advocate for gender equality and women's rights. In Finnish, the term naistenpäivä is used to refer to this international occasion. It is not a public holiday in Finland, but it is widely recognized and marked with events, discussions, and campaigns.

The modern observance has its roots in early 20th-century labor and socialist movements. The first International Women's Day was celebrated in 1911 in several European countries. In 1917, Russian women’s protests on 8 March (old style date) helped provoke broader political change. Over time, the day gained global recognition, and the United Nations began celebrating International Women's Day in 1975, often focusing on a yearly theme addressing specific aspects of gender equality and women's empowerment.

Observance practices vary by country. Common activities include public demonstrations, conferences, educational programs, and fundraising for women’s organizations. It is also customary in many places to give flowers or small gifts to women as a sign of appreciation, though the day is primarily about advocacy and awareness rather than celebration alone. The themes commonly address pay equity, violence against women, political representation, and social rights.

In Finland, naistenpäivä emphasizes equality, solidarity, and women's rights, but it remains distinct from äitienpäivä (Mother’s Day), which is celebrated on a different date. The day is widely discussed in media and civil society, with a range of events organized by associations and educational institutions.