On March 8, 2025, the world marks International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women while confronting the urgent challenges that still persist. The theme for 2025, “Accelerate Action”, is a powerful call to fast-track progress toward gender justice, demanding bold, decisive steps to break barriers and create a world where every woman and girl can thrive without delay or compromise.

The significance of this year’s celebration is amplified by Beijing+30, marking three decades since the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a groundbreaking commitment to women’s rights. Yet, as we reflect on progress, a stark reality emerges: 24% of countries report that backlash against gender equality has actively undermined commitments that could unlock rights and protection for women and girls (UN Women, 2025). The global pushback on gender equality demands bold and collective action.

In Mexico, activists are raising alarms ahead of International Women’s Day marches, highlighting both advancements and emerging challenges. While the nation has seen progress under its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, concerns have arisen due to budget cuts affecting support services for domestic violence victims and proposed judicial reforms that may undermine efforts to address femicide cases. These developments serve as a reminder of the fragility of gains made in women’s rights and the importance of sustained commitment to gender equality.

In the United States, cities like Houston are gearing up to celebrate International Women’s Day with a series of events aimed at honoring women’s achievements and promoting equality. Festivities include luncheons featuring prominent female leaders, art exhibitions spotlighting contributions by women, and community festivals fostering discussions on gender equality. These events not only celebrate the progress made but also serve as platforms to address the work still needed to achieve true parity.

As part of this global movement, The Pocket Project proudly inaugurated the World Women Summit 2025 on March 6 under the theme: “Soaring Together: Elevating Feminine Power,” a free five-day global event dedicated to amplifying feminine leadership and harnessing the power of collective healing. Featuring renowned changemakers like Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Scilla Elworthy, human rights lawyer Oleksandra Matviichuk, and peace activist Eszter Koranyi, the Summit provides a space for deep dialogue, transformative leadership, and action toward a more equitable future.

From the rise in gender-based violence to the persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership, the urgency to accelerate action for gender justice and equality cannot be overstated. The World Economic Forum estimates that it will take 134 years to close the gender gap at our current pace. However, movements like International Women’s Day and the World Women Summit remind us that change is not only necessary but entirely possible when we come together with vision and action.

As we celebrate this day, let it not just be a moment of reflection but a call to act, advocate, and amplify the voices of women and girls everywhere.

Join the conversation and be part of the change! Sign up for the World Women Summit 2025 and explore how you can contribute to a more just and empowered world for ALL women and girls.

Happy International Women’s Day from the Pocket Project!