Women's Day sparks a worldwide movement: Leaders, influencers, and individuals walk backward in protest

From International Women's Day on March 8, people across the globe—including public figures, activists, and everyday individuals—are walking backward in protest against the alarming regression in women’s rights. This is part of the UN Women National Committees’ campaign 'March Forward.'

A report released March 6 states that one in four countries reported backlash on women’s rights in 2024.

Actors like Emily in Paris star Samuel Arnold, public speakers such as Celeste Barber, and political leaders including Iceland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Þorgerður Katrin Gunnarsdóttir, ecclesiastical leaders, like Bishop of Iceland Guðrún Karls Helgudóttir as well as artists, athletes, and sports groups draw attention to the crisis.

With over 10,000 mentions in just two weeks, the campaign has gained traction, urging world leaders to act now under #MarchForward, #MoveForward and #EnAvantMars. Companies are reversing their logos and International Women's Day events mobilized thousands in marches.

Powerful visual statement

“This campaign was born out of the sheer frustration of watching progress slip away,” says Chief Creative Officer Selma Thorsteinsdottir at Pipar\TBWA, a part of TBWA\Nordic, “We needed a universally understood visual—a metaphor so clear that anyone, anywhere, could grasp it in an instant. Walking backwards is unsettling, unnatural. It embodies the regressive trend of women’s rights.”

The statistics are staggering:

1. Over 600 million women and girls are affected by war—a 50% increase in just a decade
2. Two billion women lack access to social protection.
3. Every minute, 23 girls are forced into child marriage.
4. Women in some regions face imprisonment for their clothing choices.

"No one has time to wait for 100 years. 2025 is our turning point. During this week people everywhere have found powerful, creative ways to stand in solidarity. The urgency to act is clear, and we refuse to remain silent while women's rights are being pushed back. The only way is forward," says Stella Samúelsdóttir, Executive Director of UN Women Iceland, who leads the campaign.

Join the Movement

UN Women National Committees urge individuals, organizations, and businesses to join the ‘March Forward’ campaign. To stand with the cause, take action, and ensure that the only direction for women’s rights is forward.