Every March 8th, the world comes together to recognize the social, political, cultural, and economic achievements of women, and now you can join the celebration in a meaningful (and fun) way.
This International Women’s Day trivia invites you to test your knowledge, learn hidden stories, and honor incredible women who have made history across the globe.
🌍 What’s Inside This International Women’s Day Quiz?
This isn’t just any general knowledge quiz. This is a powerful journey through time, milestones, and movements. From trailblazing scientists and fearless leaders to game-changing moments in women’s rights, this 90-question quiz on International Women’s Day explores the people, dates, and facts that shaped the world we live in.
The trivia is divided into 9 mini-quizzes, each containing 10 questions, with difficulty levels that ramp up as you go:
Beginner (3 blocks) – Easy questions to get you warmed up
Intermediate (3 blocks) – A deeper dive into historical context and global influence
Advanced (3 blocks) – Hard, thought-provoking trivia about lesser-known facts and global pioneers
Each subquiz ends with a “Show Answers” button so you can see how many you nailed before moving to the next round.
✨ Why Take This Quiz?
If you’re wondering why this free online quiz deserves your attention, here’s what makes it worth every second:
✅ Expand Your Awareness Learn about remarkable women and key moments that aren’t always in the spotlight.
✅ Test and Sharpen Your Knowledge Whether you’re a student, educator, activist, or simply curious, this is a great way to challenge yourself.
✅ Celebrate with Purpose Use this International Women’s Day to do more than post a hashtag. Engage with the facts and stories that matter.
✅ Perfect for Groups or Solo Play Enjoy it alone or make it a fun and educational group activity with friends, colleagues, or students.
Easy International Women’s Day Trivia Questions
1. When is International Women's Day celebrated?
March 8 marks the annual observance of International Women's Day (IWD), a worldwide celebration that serves as a central moment in the advocacy for women's rights.
2. What is the purpose of International Women's Day?
Globally recognized, International Women's Day serves as a celebration of the accomplishments of women in the social, economic, cultural, and political spheres. Additionally, it symbolizes a collective call to action for hastening the achievement of gender parity.
3. In which year was the first International Women's Day observed?
On March 19, 1911, the inaugural International Women's Day witnessed the participation of over a million individuals in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
4. Which color is associated with International Women's Day?
The colors associated with International Women's Day are purple, green, and white. These color choices trace their origins back to the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the United Kingdom in 1908.
5. What is the official theme for International Women's Day 2023?
In 2023, International Women's Day will revolve around the theme 'DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality'.
6. Is International Women's Day a public holiday in all countries?
While not designated as an official public holiday in certain countries like Australia, Cameroon, Croatia, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Vietnam, and Chile, International Women's Day is widely observed and acknowledged.
7. How many years has International Women's Day been celebrated until 2023?
Until 2023, International Women's Day had been celebrated for more than a century, and 2023 will mark more than 112 years since its creation.
8. Who is credited with starting International Women's Day?
The concept of establishing International Women's Day as a global observance originated from Clara Zetkin, a communist activist and staunch advocate for women's rights. She proposed this idea during the 1910 International Conference of Working Women held in Copenhagen.
9. Which United Nations entity plays a significant role in International Women's Day?
In a significant historical move in July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly established the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). This initiative was aimed at expediting advancements in addressing the needs of women and girls globally.
10. What is the #ChooseToChallenge campaign associated with International Women's Day?
The #ChooseToChallenge campaign on social media aims to empower women to voice their opposition to gender bias and inequality.
1. Is International Women's Day only celebrated by women?
People of all genders, including men, participate in International Women's Day events and activities.
2. Are there any specific traditions associated with International Women's Day?
Although International Women's Day is celebrated with diverse traditions and activities around the world, there is no singular set of universal customs. The way it is celebrated can vary significantly, influenced by cultural, regional and organizational factors.
3. Which country was the first to officially recognize International Women's Day?
Inspired by the advocacy of German activist Clara Zetkin, the International Socialist Congress, in 1910, resolved to establish an international counterpart to the U.S. holiday. Subsequently, on March 19, 1911, the inaugural International Women's Day took place in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
4. Do different countries have different dates for observing International Women's Day?
International Women's Day (IWD) is universally observed on March 8th each year.
5. What is the official flower associated with International Women's Day?
There is no official flower specifically associated with International Women's Day. However, there are some very popular ones related to this date, such as the mimosa.
6. Are there any specific symbols associated with International Women's Day?
International Women's Day is associated with various symbols that represent the themes of women's equality, empowerment and achievement. Some of the most popular around the world are the dove and venus, the purple ribbon and the female symbol.
7. Are there any special discounts or offers associated with International Women's Day?
Many businesses and organizations choose to celebrate International Women's Day by offering special discounts, promotions, or events that focus on women's empowerment or contribute to charitable causes supporting women.
8. Is International Women's Day a day off work in any country?
International Women's Day is not a public holiday in most countries, which means it is not typically a day off work.
9. Is International Women's Day related to any specific feminist movement?
The association of Women's Day with March 8th is deeply connected to the women's movements that unfolded during the Russian Revolution of 1917.
10. Are men encouraged to participate in International Women's Day?
International Women's Day is not solely for women; it is a day that encourages the participation of everyone, regardless of gender.
1. Are there any specific hashtags associated with International Women's Day on social media?
International Women's Day is associated with several hashtags on social media platforms. These hashtags are commonly used to share messages, stories, and discussions related to women's rights, gender equality, and the celebration of women's achievements.
2. How does International Women's Day aim to promote gender equality?
Recognizing, commemorating, and enhancing the visibility of women's accomplishments play a pivotal role in fostering equality. Strategic partnerships, built upon a shared sense of purpose, trust, and appreciation, can significantly contribute to positive transformations for women. This day is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges faced by women and to advocate for equal rights and opportunities.
3. What was the first country to celebrate a national women's day?
The inaugural National Woman's Day took place in the United States on February 28. The Socialist Party of America designated this day in homage to the 1908 garment workers' strike in New York, during which women rallied against oppressive working conditions.
4. Are there any awards or honors given out on International Women's Day?
Prestigious global awards, such as those presented by organizations like Cartier, Fortune, and Veuve Clicquot, serve as platforms to honor and celebrate women's remarkable achievements.
5. Are there any notable historical figures associated with International Women's Day?
There are several historical figures who have played an important role in the defense of women's rights and gender equality, laying the groundwork for the celebration of International Women's Day. Some examples are: Clara Zetkin, Susan B. Anthony, Rosa Luxemburg, among others.
6. Is International Women's Day celebrated in schools and educational institutions?
Educational institutions use the occasion to raise awareness about gender equality, discuss the contributions of women throughout history, and highlight the importance of empowering girls and women in various fields.
7. Are there any specific resources or materials available for promoting International Women's Day?
A variety of resources and materials are available to raise awareness, organize events and engage in discussions on gender equality. These may include toolkits, reports, videos, brochures, posters, and social media graphics.
8. Are there any annual reports or publications related to International Women's Day?
Many organizations, institutions, and non-profits release annual reports, publications, and statements related to International Women's Day to highlight achievements, challenges, and advancements in the field of gender equality and women's rights.
9. What day was International Women's Day originally celebrated before it was changed to March 8?
Inspired by the efforts of German activist Clara Zetkin, the International Socialist Congress, in 1910, resolved to establish a global counterpart to the U.S. holiday. Subsequently, on March 19, 1911, the inaugural International Women's Day was observed in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
10. Can individuals and organizations participate in International Women's Day online?
Numerous organizations and groups are anticipated to host virtual events on International Women's Day. A wide range of virtual activities, including webinars, panel discussions, and workshops, are available on social media platforms and organizational websites.
Intermediate International Women’s Day Trivia Questions
1. Why is intersectional feminism important in the women's rights movement?
Intersectionality refers to the concept that various forms of discrimination can intersect, impacting an individual's life in complex ways. Incorporating intersectionality into feminism is crucial for the movement, as it broadens the fight for gender equality to embrace inclusivity.
2. What are some common challenges that women face globally in terms of gender equality?
Around the world, women continue to face a number of challenges that impede progress towards gender equality such as the persistent gender pay gap, limited access to education due to cultural norms or early marriage, widespread gender-based violence and underrepresentation in leadership positions in various sectors, etc.
3. What is an example of campaigns or initiatives focused on addressing violence against women?
UN Women initiated the COMMIT initiative, urging governments to make tangible and new national commitments to combat violence against women and girls.
4. Which country has been consistently ranked at the top in terms of gender equality according to the Global Gender Gap Report?
Iceland has maintained its leading position in the WEF rankings for the 14th consecutive year, successfully closing an estimated 91.2% of its gender gap. Notably, it stands as the sole country to achieve a closure of over 90% in its gender gap.
5. What is the significance of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in relation to International Women's Day?
Unanimously adopted by 189 countries, the Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action stand as a comprehensive agenda for women's empowerment. Widely recognized as a pivotal global policy document on gender equality, it outlines crucial principles and strategies for advancing women's rights and well-being.
6. What was the first country in the world to grant women the right to vote on a permanent basis?
New Zealand achieved a historic milestone in 1893 by becoming the first enduring and sovereign nation to enact suffrage laws, granting women the right to vote. While the Corsican Republic, Pitcairn Island, Isle of Man, and the Cook Islands had previously allowed women's suffrage, these instances were temporary due to colonization, resulting in the subsequent loss of voting rights.
7. What are some examples of intersectionality when discussing women's rights and gender equality?
Intersectionality pertains to the convergence or intersection of diverse identity factors, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, social class, nationality, gender, sexuality, and ability.
8. What is the name of the organization that officially recognized International Women's Day in 1977?
International Women's Day, officially acknowledged by the United Nations in 1977, originated from the initiatives of labor movements during the early twentieth century in North America and across Europe, with its roots traced back to 1909.
9. What is the significance of the #MeToo movement in raising awareness about sexual harassment and assault against women?
Tarana Burke, a women's rights advocate in New York, coined the #MeToo phrase in 2006. Her intention was to empower women who had experienced sexual violence, reassuring them that they were not alone and that others had shared similar experiences.
10. How does International Women's Day contribute to the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals?
The empowerment of women holds the potential to drive social progress and sustainable development. Their active participation in decision-making processes, promotion of gender equality, and advocacy for their rights contribute to these advancements. Additionally, empowered women play a role in poverty reduction, economic growth, and the promotion of environmental sustainability.
1. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2024?
In 2024, the focal theme for International Women's Day is declared as 'Invest in women: Accelerate progress,' as proclaimed by UN Women – Headquarters.
2. What is the role of men in promoting gender equality and celebrating International Women's Day?
On International Women's Day, men can actively participate by attending events, sharing positive messages, and using their platforms to raise awareness.
3. What does the color purple mean in relation to International Women's Day?
The hues associated with International Women's Day are purple, green, and white. Purple symbolizes justice, dignity, and unwavering commitment to the cause.
4. What is the significance of the color green in relation to International Women's Day?
International Women's Day features the colors purple, green, and white. In this context, green is emblematic of hope.
5. What is the significance of the color white in relation to International Women's Day?
International Women's Day features the colors purple, green, and white, with white symbolizing purity.
6. How does International Women's Day intersect with other social justice movements, such as LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality?
International Women's Day is often used not only to recognize their many achievements, but also to galvanize the momentum needed to ensure that the LGBTQ+ movement - and society as a whole - becomes more inclusive. International Women's Day is an opportunity to hear from lesbians, bisexual women and trans people who have historically been silenced.
7. Who is the Executive Director of UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, in 2024?
Sima Bahous serves as the Executive Director of UN Women.
8. Why are reproductive rights important in the women's rights movement?
Within the realm of reproductive rights, individuals may encompass various entitlements, such as the right to abortion, access to birth control, protection against coerced sterilization and contraception, the entitlement to high-quality reproductive healthcare, and the right to education and accessibility for making informed and autonomous reproductive decisions.
9. How do media representations of women contribute to gender stereotypes and inequality?
Encountering stereotypical representations reinforces beliefs in gender stereotypes and supports traditional gender role norms. Moreover, it contributes to the fostering of sexism, harassment, and violence among men, while concurrently suppressing career-related aspirations in women.
10. What does the slogan "Break the Bias" signify in the context of International Women's Day?
The objective of the #BreakTheBias movement is to prompt individuals to speak out against gender bias when they observe it and to foster accountability for one's own thoughts and actions.
1. What convention was held in the United States in 1848 on the rights and empowerment of women that was the basis for many of today's advances for women's rights?
Widely recognized as the cradle of American feminism, the Seneca Falls Convention is hailed as the inaugural women's rights gathering in the United States. This historic event took place at the Wesleyan Chapel in Seneca Falls, New York, spanning July 19 and 20, 1848.
2. What does the term "glass ceiling" refer to?
The phrase "glass ceiling" colloquially refers to the societal barrier that hinders the advancement of women into top management positions. Over time, this term has been expanded to encompass discrimination against minorities as well.
3. How do cultural and societal norms influence gender roles and expectations?
The development of gender roles is notably shaped by cultural and societal influences. Religion, in particular, holds a substantial impact in this regard, as certain religious traditions dictate distinct roles for women and men within both the family and society, assigning them specific responsibilities based on their gender.
4. What impact does gender-based violence have on women's physical and mental well-being?
Individuals who have survived gender-based violence (GBV) face an elevated risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, substance misuse disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even suicide attempts.
5. Who wrote the famous book "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman" in 1792?
In 1792, English writer Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) authored the forward-thinking treatise, "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman."
6. What is the name of the global campaign that advocates for gender equality and women's rights?
As a global solidarity movement for gender equality within the framework of the United Nations, HeForShe is an initiative that extends an invitation to people of all genders, particularly men, urging them to join forces in a bold, visible and unified stand to support and promote gender equality.
7. Which famous feminist and suffragette is often associated with International Women's Day in the UK?
Emmeline Pankhurst (1858–1928) engaged in women's suffrage activism in 1880. Faced with the exclusion of women members from her local branch of the Independent Labour Party, she went on to establish the Women's Social & Political Union (WSPU).
8. What is the objective of the "Wear It Purple" campaign in relation to International Women's Day?
Every year, Wear It Purple Day events take place in schools, workplaces, and community organizations, aiming to raise awareness about the consequences of bullying, celebrate diversity, advocate for inclusivity, and provide support to youth identifying as sexually and/or gender diverse.
9. In what year was the legal framework of an international convention to prevent violence against women established?
The Council of Europe has played an active role in shaping policy and legislation to address gender-based violence. Among the most pertinent instruments for combating violence against women is the 2011 Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, commonly known as the Istanbul Convention.
10. Why is the representation of women in leadership positions in politics and corporate sectors part of the discussion?
By serving as role models, they have the power to inspire other women to actively pursue leadership roles, thereby helping dismantle gender stereotypes and fostering greater gender equality in society.
Hard International Women’s Day Trivia Questions
1. What is the International Women's Day website URL?
The official website for International Women's Day is https://www.internationalwomensday.com/.
2. What is the name of the annual report that assesses progress towards gender equality worldwide?
Annually, the Global Gender Gap Index serves as a benchmark, evaluating the present status and progression of gender parity in four crucial dimensions: Economic Participation and Opportunity, Educational Attainment, Health and Survival, and Political Empowerment.
3. What was the outcome of the 1995 World Conference on Women held in Beijing?
The conference represented a pivotal moment in the global push for gender equality. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, unanimously embraced by 189 countries, emerged as a comprehensive agenda for women's empowerment and has since evolved into the primary global policy document addressing gender equality.
4. What is the hashtag for the theme of International Women's Day 2023?
The theme for the International Women's Day 2023 campaign is #EmbraceEquity, emphasizing the call to actively support and adopt principles of fairness and justice in the pursuit of gender equality.
5. Who coined the term "gender performativity"?
Judith Butler introduced the concept of gender performativity in the 1990 book Gender Trouble
6. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2018?
In 2018, the United Nations designated the theme for International Women's Day as "The Time is Now: Rural and Urban Activists Transforming Women's Lives." This theme resonates with the focal point theme set for the imminent 62nd session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
7. Which historical event led to the emergence of International Women's Day?
In tribute to the 1908 garment workers' strike in New York, during which women protested against oppressive working conditions, the Socialist Party of America designated this day as a noteworthy occasion.
8. What theme did the UN pick for International Women's Day in 2021?
For International Women's Day 2021, the theme centered around "Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world on the way to the Generation Equality Forum."
9. What is the role of CEDAW in relation to women's rights?
Being the principal international legal instrument for the advancement and safeguarding of women's rights, the Convention acknowledges gender equality and forbids discrimination against women in both private and public domains.
10. What impact does the #SayHerName movement have on raising awareness about violence against Black women?
#SayHerName offers a platform for a range of voices committed to racial justice to participate in an ongoing conversation about the vulnerability of Black women to police brutality and anti-Black violence.
1. What was the case Roe v. Wade and its impact on the United States?
In the significant legal case of Roe v. Wade (1973), the U.S. Supreme Court rendered a landmark decision, affirming that the United States Constitution broadly safeguards the right to undergo an abortion.
2. What is the significance of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security?
The resolution 1325 was adopted by the UN Security Council in 2000 and was the first to address the role of women in peace and security issues. It acknowledged that women and girls suffer differently from men and boys in armed conflict and urged for their protection and involvement in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
3. Why is it important and what is the function of the Bechdel test?
The Bechdel test serves as a gauge for the portrayal of women in various fictional mediums, such as films. To meet its criteria, the work must include a minimum of two female characters engaged in a conversation unrelated to a man.
4. Name one prominent female figure who has made significant contributions to women's rights
Susan B. Anthony, a trailblazing advocate, played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement in the United States. Serving as the president of the National Woman Suffrage Association from 1892 to 1900, her efforts significantly contributed to the eventual passage of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution in 1920, granting women the right to vote.
5. Which famous speech by a women's rights activist is associated with International Women's Day?
During the 1851 Women's Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, Sojourner Truth delivered a renowned speech, "Ain't I a Woman?," which has become one of the most celebrated addresses in American history advocating for abolition and women's rights. Her activism persisted, as she continued to champion the rights of both African Americans and women throughout and following the Civil War.
6. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2013?
The designated United Nations theme for International Women's Day in 2013 is "A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women."
7. What is the significance of the "Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women" adopted by the United Nations General Assembly?
In 1993, during a session in Vienna, the United Nations General Assembly formally embraced the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This pivotal declaration played a crucial role in elevating the issue of violence against women to an international level, rejecting arguments based on cultural relativism as grounds for inaction.
8. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2016?
In 2016, the designated theme for International Women's Day was "Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality." The United Nations' observance on March 8th aimed to contemplate strategies to expedite the 2030 Agenda, fostering momentum for the successful execution of the new Sustainable Development Goals.
9. In which year did International Women's Day become an official holiday in Russia?
In 1917, Bolshevik leaders Alexandra Kollontai and Vladimir Lenin officially established International Women's Day (IWD) as a public holiday in the Soviet Union.
10. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2019?
In 2019, International Women's Day was centered around the theme "Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for Change," as advocated by UN Women – Headquarters.
1. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2010?
In the year 2010, the designated theme was "Equal rights, equal opportunities: Progress for All," aligning seamlessly with the focus of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on non-discrimination during that same year.
2. What impact does the women's suffrage movement have on political participation and representation?
The suffragists, in challenging the prevailing political norms of their time, can be regarded as the voting rights activists of their era, advocating for the right to vote and participating in efforts to reshape political dynamics.
3. Who founded the global movement called "One Billion Rising" aimed at ending violence against women?
Established by Eve Ensler, One Billion Rising is a worldwide campaign aimed at ending rape and sexual violence against women. Initiated in 2012 as an integral part of the V-Day movement, it has since grown into a global effort to raise awareness and combat gender-based violence.
4. What is the role of "HeForShe" in involving men in promoting gender equality?
HeForShe represents the United Nations' global solidarity initiative to promote gender equality. It invites anyone to join in support of women, fostering a strong, visible and unified front for the cause of gender equality.
5. What is the significance of the Istanbul Convention in combating violence against women?
The Istanbul Convention stands as the inaugural instrument in Europe, establishing legally binding standards explicitly aimed at preventing gender-based violence, ensuring the protection of victims, and imposing penalties on those responsible for such acts.
6. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2006?
The theme for International Women's Day in 2006, "Women in Decision-making," offers an occasion to evaluate the extent to which women's perspectives are acknowledged and influential in parliamentary settings and on boards of directors.
7. What is the official United Nations theme for International Women's Day 2014?
In 2014, the chosen theme for the day was "Equality for women is progress for all." The dawn of the new millennium has marked substantial strides in the direction of gender equality and the empowerment of women.
8. What is "feminism of choice"?
Choice feminism, a prevalent strand of modern feminism, advocates for women to embrace the opportunities available to them in life and to perceive their choices as inherently justified and consistently politically acceptable.
9. Which feminist writer coined the term "intersectionality" to describe overlapping systems of oppression?
Emphasizing the critical need for comprehending intersectionality, Kimberlé Crenshaw highlights its urgency. Coined by Crenshaw during her early years as a law professor, the term illustrates the intersection of race and gender discrimination, particularly concerning Black women.
10. What impact does the Convention on the Rights of the Child have on the rights and autonomy of girls?
The CRC has had a significant impact on the rights and autonomy of girls by promoting gender equality and ensuring that girls are treated without discrimination.
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are there in this International Women’s Day test? There are 90 questions, broken into 9 blocks of 10 questions each.
What topics are covered? The quiz includes trivia about women’s history, global milestones, iconic figures, legal achievements, cultural impact, and more.
Are the questions too difficult? They start easy and gradually increase in difficulty. The structure is designed for all knowledge levels.
Can I see the correct answers? Yes. At the end of each 10-question block, click the “Show Answers” button to check your responses.
Is this quiz suitable for classrooms or events? Absolutely. It’s free, educational, and perfect for group discussions and classroom celebrations.
🌟 Ready to Take the Challenge?
Celebrate International Women’s Day not just with words, but with curiosity and reflection. Whether you ace it or discover something new, this free online trivia about International Women’s Day will leave you inspired and informed.
🎯 Start the quiz now and see how much you really know about the women who changed the world. Let’s honor their legacy, one question at a time!
