On Saturday, protesters around the world took to the streets to celebrate International Women’s Day, rallying for equal pay, political representation, and an end to gender-based violence, while expressing concerns over rising repression.
In eastern Ukraine, demonstrators observed a minute’s silence to honor women who lost their lives defending the country against Russia’s invasion. Many carried banners adorned with the faces of the fallen. Activist Iryna Lysykova emphasized the critical role of women in society: “Women are half of our society, and we need to talk about what they do, how they protect, and what they sacrifice for our country’s freedom.”
In major European cities like Paris, Berlin, and Madrid, women voiced their fears of regressive political movements, including the resurgence of far-right ideologies. “It is coming now, and we’re taking backward steps,” warned Dori Martinez Monroy, 63, in Madrid. “We have to reclaim what has already been won because women are the first to be targeted.”
In Jakarta, activist Ajeng criticized the Indonesian government for budget cuts that she argued undermine women’s rights. “Women are killed, impoverished, criminalized,” she stated, as nearby protesters held placards proclaiming, “This body belongs to me” and “Glory to the women of the working class.” She underscored the struggle Indonesian women face against state oppression.
In Paris, members of the Femen activist group made a bold statement by marching topless, their bodies painted with the US or Russian flags marked by swastikas. The protests were intensified by sentiments against former President Donald Trump, accused of sexual abuse and implementing policies detrimental to women. “This is a battle; it’s not over,” declared Sabine, 49, who marched with her seven-year-old son. Organizers estimated around 250,000 participants, while police reported 47,000.
In Argentina, thousands protested against President Javier Milei’s administration, criticizing the closure of the ministry responsible for addressing gender violence and inequality. At the Berlin rally, demonstrators carried placards with messages such as “Burn the patriarchy, not the planet.” Steff Voigt expressed her apprehensions about the future: “I find it frightening how certain developments are reversing, with women’s rights potentially moving backward, especially in the USA.”
In Istanbul, Cigdem Ozdemir condemned male violence against women and criticized Turkish authorities for designating 2025 as “The Year of the Family.” “Since this announcement, we as women have been confined to our homes,” she lamented, adding that LGBTQ individuals like herself face criminalization. “Today, we are here to make our struggle visible, to defend our lives against male violence, to assert our place in society, and to uphold our rights.”
The global demonstrations underscored a collective demand for progress and justice, reflecting a growing awareness of the challenges women face and the ongoing fight for equality.
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