Recent International Women’s Day Themes
| Year | Theme |
| 2025 | Accelerate Action |
| 2024 | Inspire Inclusion |
| 2023 | Embrace Equity |
| 2022 | Break the Bias |
| 2021 | Choose to Challenge |
International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just a celebration, it’s a powerful call to action for workplace gender equity initiatives. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” urges businesses, leaders and individuals to push beyond conversation and take meaningful steps toward gender equity. For employers and HR leaders, IWD 2025 is an opportunity to reflect on progress, identify gaps, and implement tangible strategies to foster a more inclusive, equitable workplace.
Why International Women’s Day Matters in the Workplace
Despite decades of progress, the workplace remains an uneven playing field for many. Women and people of marginalised genders continue to face barriers in career progression, unequal pay and limited access to workplace support that meets their needs. The impact extends beyond employees – it affects businesses too. Research shows that companies with diverse and inclusive cultures are more innovative, resilient, and profitable. According to a 2023 McKinsey report, businesses in the top quartile for gender diversity are 25% more likely to outperform financially.
IWD is a catalyst for change, pushing organisations to address these disparities and take real, sustained action. But how can HR leaders and employers move from awareness to impact?
Accelerating Action: Steps Employers Can Take
1. Close the Gender Health Gap in Workplace Support
Health inequities remain a significant barrier in professional settings. Employers can drive change by ensuring workplace policies address critical health needs, from menstrual and reproductive health to menopause support. Investing in inclusive digital health solutions can help employees access the right support at the right time, ensuring they can thrive at work and beyond.
2. Embed Equity in Leadership and Career Progression
Many businesses now recognise the importance of gender diversity in leadership, yet progress remains slow. Accelerating action means going beyond quotas—it requires structured mentorship, sponsorship, and transparent progression pathways. Implementing gender equity workplace strategies ensures that leadership development is accessible and inclusive. HR leaders should audit promotion and retention data to identify biases and implement strategies to break down barriers.
3. Reimagine Flexible Working for All
Flexible working has proven benefits for work-life balance, but many policies still fail to consider the full range of caregiving responsibilities and health-related needs that disproportionately affect women. True flexibility means offering tailored options—whether that’s hybrid work, paid leave for caregiving, or wellbeing-focused initiatives that support long-term career sustainability.
4. Strengthen Psychological Safety and Inclusive Culture
A truly inclusive workplace is one where employees feel valued, heard, and supported. HR leaders can drive this by embedding inclusive policies into company culture—not just in policy documents but in everyday practice. Employee resource groups (ERGs), anonymous feedback channels, and proactive DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) training all play a role in fostering psychological safety.
How Anya Supports Employers in Driving Change
At Anya, we believe that inclusive, evidence-based digital health solutions transform workplaces by providing AI-powered workplace health support. Our AI-powered platform offers tailored digital health solutions, providing individuals with expert-led support for their health and wellbeing. Whether it’s guidance on menopause, fertility, pregnancy, or postpartum recovery, Anya empowers employees with on-demand access to trusted support – helping businesses create healthier, more equitable workplaces.
This International Women’s Day let’s not just acknowledge the challenges. Let’s take action. Accelerate action – to build workplace cultures where everyone can thrive.
Join the Conversation
Explore how businesses can make a meaningful impact this IWD. Additionally, explore our insights on workplace inclusivity and digital health solutions, visit our page for employers, partners and insurance.
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