On this day in 1857, female workers of a sewing factory in New York clashed with local police while protesting against a 12-hour workday, low pay and unhealthy condition at workplaces.

The day was later declared as International Women's Day during the second International Socialist Women's Conference in Copenhagen in 1910, following a proposal by German Socialist Movement leader Klara Jatekin.

On the eve of the day, President Iajuddin Ahmed, Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and Leader of the Opposition Sheikh Hasina in separate messages asked all concerned to protect the rights of women across the country.

In his message, the president called for giving importance to women's opinion in spheres of personal, family and social lives to establish their rights.

The prime minister in her message said women in Bangladesh are now more confident and have been enjoying more economic freedom.

UN Secretary General Kofi Annan in a message said empowerment of women and their participation in all spheres of society and decision-making process as well as access to power are the fundamentals for achieving equality, development and peace.

Different organisations have sketched out elaborate progra-mmes to observe the day.

As many as 48 women's organisations under the banner of 'International Women's Day Obser-vation Committee' will hold rallies, form human chains and bring out processions in the city to mark the day.

Besides, Bangladesh United Nations Association, Bangladesh Society for the Enforcement of Human Rights, Bangladesh Sromojibi Nari, Mohila Gono Forum, Women Watch Bangladesh, Karmojibi Nari, Biplobi Nari Songhoti, Gonotantrik Mohila Samiti and many other social, political and cultural organisations will also arrange different programmes including seminar, procession, rally and debate to mark the day.