28 May: International Day of Action for Women’s Health

History of the Day

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health is observed annually on May 28. Established in 1987 at the International Women’s Health Meeting in Costa Rica, the day was proposed by the Latin America and Caribbean Women’s Health Network (LACWHN) as a global occasion dedicated to advocacy and action for women’s health. LACWHN led the promotion and coordination of local activities, while the Women’s Global Network for Reproductive Rights (WGNRR) was tasked with spearheading the international campaign.

Through close collaboration, these organizations and their partners have played a pivotal role in raising awareness and mobilizing grassroots movements to improve women’s health worldwide.

The campaign’s first major initiative, the Call for Action, was a multi-year effort to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. This campaign empowered grassroots women’s organizations by providing access to vital knowledge and research, previously limited to academic circles. It also highlighted significant gaps in women’s health data, prompting increased meetings, seminars, and studies among advocates and health professionals.

Global coordination strengthened the women’s health movement, amplifying its influence at both national and international levels. In response, key institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the World Bank adopted the cause under the theme of “Safe Motherhood.” These organizations have since invested in improved health services, sponsored educational seminars, and supported research programs to advance women’s health outcomes.

Role of Different Agencies

Since its inception in 1987, the International Day of Action for Women’s Health has been officially recognized by governments, global agencies, and civil society organizations around the world. The day serves as a focal point for raising awareness and advocating for critical women’s health issues.

LACWHN and WGNRR continue to sustain the campaign, issuing annual calls to action that highlight specific themes related to women’s health. Each year, the campaign addresses emerging challenges and promotes rights-based approaches to healthcare and policy.

These ongoing efforts have increased global visibility for women’s health concerns and fostered solidarity among diverse groups working toward equitable health access and the protection of women’s reproductive rights.

Significance of the International Day of Action for Women’s Health

This observance underscores the ongoing need for advocacy to improve women’s health services and policies. It draws attention to persistent health disparities, especially among marginalized and underserved communities. By promoting dialogue, education, and policy change, the International Day of Action for Women’s Health encourages governments, health professionals, and civil society to recognize women’s health as a fundamental human right.

Key objectives of the day include:

Raising awareness about women’s reproductive and general health issues
Promoting access to quality healthcare services for all women
Reducing preventable maternal mortality and morbidity
Supporting gender-sensitive health research and education
Advocating for policy reforms that protect and enhance women’s health rights

Global Impact and Campaign Themes

Over the years, the International Day of Action for Women’s Health has united activists and organizations to address a wide range of health challenges. Each year, the campaign focuses on a unique theme reflecting current issues affecting women’s health globally.

Past campaign themes have included:

Access to safe and legal abortion services
Combating gender-based violence and its health consequences
Improving maternal health and reducing pregnancy-related complications
Promoting sexual and reproductive rights and education
Addressing the impact of poverty and discrimination on women’s health

These themes guide advocacy efforts, stimulate public discourse, and influence policy decisions. They also promote collaboration among international organizations, governments, and grassroots groups to drive meaningful change.

Visual Tribute: Celebrating Women’s Health

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health is marked by seminars, marches, workshops, and community outreach programs worldwide. Visual storytelling plays a powerful role in these events, showcasing the diverse experiences of women and highlighting their health journeys.