International Women's Day celebrated on March 8th each year, is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The Waterford Global Women’s Conference was established in 2020 and has run annually since then, marking International Women’s Day and has a particular focus on Migrant Women. 

The conference has taken place with an in-person audience each year since then, except 2021 which was broadcast live online. Since 2020 over 700 participants have attended the live events and over 600 have watched live online or the recording of the event afterwards. Over 100 speakers and performers have taken part covering topics such as racism, diversity and inclusion, migrants influence on the history and development of Waterford, climate action, breaking stereotypes, and social enterprise.

Waterford Libraries through events, educational opportunities, and community building are working to promote Goal 5 the SDG Goal for Gender Equality. 

Using carefully selected photographs that capture the unique spirit of the first seven years of the event, a curated retrospective exhibition presented on Full Colour A3 panels will be produced. An accompanying, full colour A5 book will also be produced, and will be presented to attendees at the 2027 conference. The exhibition and book will both be launched at the 8th edition of the conference in 2027, with a subsequent exhibition then taking place in the Index Gallery. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.