By Revolutionary Students Front
On March 8, 2025, various cities across Pakistan and its held areas witnessed vibrant discussions and gatherings in commemoration of International Working Women’s Day. Organized by the Revolutionary Students Front (RSF), Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC), Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF), and other organizations, these events highlighted the struggles and contributions of women in revolutionary movements. The events underscored the need for revolutionary change, gender equality, and an end to economic and social oppression.
The March 8 events across Pakistan served as a reminder of the struggles women face under capitalism and patriarchy. Speakers in different cities reinforced the message that true gender liberation is inseparable from class struggle and systemic transformation. The discussions and activities carried out in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Islamabad, Quetta, Rawalakot, Hajira, Abbaspur, Khai Gala, and Bagh collectively strengthened the resolve to fight for women’s rights and for the socialist transformation of society.
The demand for an end to capitalist exploitation and patriarchal oppression remains at the forefront, and these events have further fueled the movement toward a society based on equality, justice, and collective empowerment.
Quetta: Women in Revolution
An event was held at the Quetta Educational Directorate, where discussions were led by notable speakers, including Comrade Shakeela, Saeeda Niaz, Faheema Gul, Comrade Nader, Shaheeda Gul, Comrade Yahya of Communist Party, and Comrade Sherbaz of BSO. The event focused on the historical role of women, the significance of March 8, and the role of women in revolutionary movements. The gathering concluded with a call for continued resistance against gender and economic oppression.
Rawalpindi: The Plight of Working Women – How to Fight?
An event titled “The Plight of Working Women – How to Fight?” was organized in Rawalpindi to discuss the challenges faced by working women. Speakers emphasized that women’s oppression is deeply tied to capitalist private ownership and that only a politically organized struggle can challenge economic, social, and gender-based exploitation. The event reinforced the importance of collective resistance for women’s liberation.
Lahore: Women’s Struggle and the Contradictions of the Era
At Punjab University, Lahore, the Revolutionary Students Front (RSF) hosted a study circle under the theme “Contradictions of the Era and Women’s Struggle.” Comrade Faiza initiated the discussion by exploring the history of March 8, the struggle for working women’s rights, and contemporary challenges. Students actively engaged in the debate, identifying religious extremism and conservatism as enablers of patriarchy. Awais Qarni concluded the discussion by stressing that true gender liberation requires abolishing private ownership, urging collective action beyond gender divisions.
Hyderabad: Women’s Role in Revolutions
PTUDC and RSF organized an event in Hyderabad, bringing attention to the role of women in revolutionary movements. Speakers highlighted how women under capitalism suffer from dual exploitation and asserted that socialism is the only system that can ensure true liberation. The discussion emphasized the necessity of a united struggle against capitalist oppression.
Mirpurkhas: Women’s Freedom Through Socialism
A joint event by PTUDC and the Progressive Writers’ Association was held in Mirpurkhas, focusing on the role of women in revolutions. Speakers reiterated that capitalism perpetuates gender-based oppression and that socialism is the only viable path toward women’s freedom. The discussions encouraged a commitment to class struggle as a means to achieve genuine liberation.
Islamabad: Demanding Systemic Change
At International Islamic University Islamabad, female students marked International Women’s Day with a special Iftar, where they discussed the real issues faced by women in education and workplaces, as well as the struggles of rural women. The discussion highlighted how patriarchy continues to uphold systemic inequalities. The students emphasized the need for a transformative system that prioritizes equality and justice beyond class and gender divisions.
Rawalakot: Women’s Role in the Present Era
A significant seminar titled “Women’s Role in the Present Era” was organized by Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) and People’s Revolutionary Front (PRF) in Rawalakot. Alongside this, an Iftar dinner was also arranged for participants. The seminar featured discussions on the evolving role of women and their struggles in contemporary society. Moreover, strong condemnation was expressed against the brutal violence inflicted on students at the University of Kashmir the previous day, with an announcement that the movement stands in full solidarity with the affected students.
Hajira: Contradictions of the Era and Women’s Struggle
JKNSF organized a seminar in Hajira under the theme “Contradictions of the Era and Women’s Struggle.” The discussion revolved around the challenges women face and their fight against systemic oppression.
Abbaspur: Study Circle on Women’s Struggles
JKNSF hosted a study circle in Abbaspur titled “Contradictions of the Era and Women’s Struggle.” The session provided a platform for discussing women’s issues in historical and contemporary contexts.
Khai Gala: Seminar on Women’s Role in the Struggle
JKNSF and PRF jointly held a seminar in Khai Gala focusing on “Contradictions of the Era and Women’s Struggle.” Speakers explored the role of women in resisting economic and social oppression.
Bagh: Solidarity with Students and Women’s Struggles
In Bagh, JKNSF organized a seminar titled “Contradictions of the Era and Women’s Struggle.” During the event, the participants strongly condemned the violent attacks on students at the University of Kashmir and affirmed their support for the student movement.
