International Women’s Day

International Women's Day is observed annually on March 8 and is a global day to recognize the social, economic, cultural, artistic and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action to accelerate gender equality.  

Throughout history, Muslim women have contributed to all walks of life, from significant leadership positions as heads of state in Muslim societies, in western governments, to Nobel prize winners. Despite these contributions, women’s inequality has been a common feature of most human societies. This includes the disproportionate role often played by women in family and community life, in many societies. The economic – and social - importance of these contributions is often understated and discounted. 

In the Holy Qur’an, men and women are presented as being created equally by Allah. However, in their lived experiences, many Muslim women, as across some other traditions, have been marginalized or silenced by patriarchal cultures and the interpretations of male religious leaders who under-appreciated women’s contributions.  

Under the leadership of Mawlana Hazar Imam, the Aga Khan Development Network seeks to empower women in various ways. Small business loans help women to start and grow their businesses. Support programs aim to increase access to education for girls and to keep them in school. Nursing and midwifery programs have provided higher education and jobs for thousands of women.

In 2019, on receiving the Huffington Award, Princess Zahra Aga Khan noted: “There has always been this ethos of putting a lot of emphasis on the role of women in society and giving those women the tools and the wherewithal to be educated mothers and leaders of their societies.

On International Women’s Day, let us reflect on how we can contribute to building awareness around women’s issues and position in society. We can support women-owned businesses, advocate for gender equality in the workplace, encourage greater female representation in leadership, and publicly recognize women’s contributions.

Watch the Virtual International Women's Day Gala from 2021