Happy International Women's Day!

Today is International Women’s Day, a holiday designed to “mark the economic, political and social achievements of women.” Events are taking place around the world to celebrate women and to raise awareness of women’s issues.

The global theme for this year’s celebration, chosen by the United Nations, is “Women and men united to end violence against women and girls.” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has spoken out for the cause today, releasing a statement that noted that women “still comprise the majority of the world’s poor, unfed, and unschooled. Like all people, women deserve to live free from violence and fear. To create peaceful, thriving communities, women must be equal partners Ensuring the rights of women and girls is not only a matter of justice. It is a matter of enhancing global peace, progress, and prosperity for generations to come.”

A number of International Women’s Day protests and rallies took place around the globe both today and yesterday. Here are a few images:

Beirut, Lebanon.

Mumbai, India.

Warsaw, Poland.

Dhaka, Bangladesh. According to the Associated Press, the banner reads “To end the violence against the women and girl child together.”

Bangalore, India.

Athens, Greece.

Beijing, China.

Lahore, Pakistan.

Karachi, Pakistan.

[All images via AP]

Clinton Honors Women’s Rights, Calls For Equality [AFP]
[International Women’s Day]