Since its inception, International Women's Day has been an opportunity to show the world that no development is possible as long as millions of girls and women continue to suffer discrimination of all kinds, have their fundamental rights trampled underfoot, and endure violence of all kinds. For the WMCW, men and women are created equal by God, have the same mandate to steward creation, and enjoy the same prerogatives and rights. Within this framework, the WMCW will spare no effort in the struggle for "a world in which every woman and girl can exercise her freedoms and choices and know and enjoy all her rights, including the right to live free from violence, the right to education, the right to participate in decision-making and the right to equal pay for equal work". (UN)
On the occasion of the celebration of International Women's Day 2025, the Indian movement urges us, on the basis of its concrete achievements in favor of women's empowerment, to redouble our efforts in our commitment to contribute to the realization of a just and sustainable world.
Easily reached the Achievements to Women!
In India, for thousands of years, women have been treated and seen as subjects and not as human beings. Do Patti' films say: 'Worldwide, nearly one-third of women aged 15-49 who've been in a relationship have been subjected to some form of physical and/or sexual violence. Even newborn female children are not safe, they are sexually abused and in some parts of the country even killed by giving 'KalliPaal' (cactus juice). On the other hand, women still face many challenges such as unequal pay, limited access to education and health care, responsibility for household chores, rape, sexual harassment at work, etc.
In rural areas, only 1 in 100 girls from rural India makes it to college, largely due to social norms that priorities their role as caregivers over education. Women in many villages face significant gender discrimination, confining them to domestic roles and excluding them from public activities. Although child marriage is illegal, it remains widespread due to illiteracy and lack of awareness. Rural women often lack basic sanitation facilities, leading to health problems, and are sometimes banned from using public toilets. Many rural women suffer from domestic violence, exacerbated by issues such as spousal alcoholism. The practice of dowry continues to burden rural women, who are often seen by their families as a financial burden[1].
To address these problems, CWM India has initiated many women oriented programmes which include: Awareness about labour rights for women workers; Organizing membership for CWMI - women sector; Basic training for women workers; Negotiating with owners and contractors of construction sites and landlords employing farmers through site visits - women; Helping and advising members to avail social security cover for women workers; Mobilizing on International Women's Day - March 8; Mobilizing on World Day for Decent Work - October 7; Mobilizing on Domestic Workers Day - June 16; Skill training programme for women groups.
CWM India has conducted many skill training programmes aimed at strengthening women's capacity for financial self-sufficiency and empowerment. Examples include Handmade Ayurvedic Soaps in Irinjalakuda, Traditional Dancing Dolls in Thanjavur, Siddha Anti-Biotics Medicine Preparation in Kumbakonam, Mini Statues in Agra, Fish Pickles in Kanyakumari, Handmade Chocolates in Kodaikanal Hills, Palm Leave Products in Kuzhithurai, etc.
CWM India provides financial assistance to the beneficiaries of skill training who are interested in starting their own small industries. CWM India provides the guarantee to the beneficiary to get the loan from the bank. After receiving the loan, CWM India field organisers follow up to start the small business periodically and collect the instalment amount to pay to the concerned bank.
We believe that together we can break down the barriers that prevent women from being empowered, respected and valued for their unique talents and perspectives. Let this International Women's Day be a day when women pledge to fight for a new world free from domestic violence, free from unjust wars, exploitation, oppression and discrimination between peoples based on gender or any other grounds. Let us celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women and recommit ourselves to the pursuit of gender equality. By providing equal opportunities, access to resources and the help of support systems, we can unlock the potential of women today and tomorrow, and pave the way for future generations. Let us all practice advocating for the rights and aspirations that will ensure that no woman is left behind, which will be a true celebration of Women's Day.
Message written by:
Augustin MangalaRaj,
CWM India
[1]What are the problems faced by rural women in India today?
