International Women's Day today

March 08, 2006 (GHP) -- Ghanaian females are today celebrating what comes most natural to them - being a woman.

March 8, 1908 is thought to have been first recognised as International Women's Day - the date New York textile workers called a strike to condemn child labour, push for women's right to vote and argue for safer working conditions.

The day was launched in Ghana in 1978 and is now recognised in most countries around the world.

International Women's Day is an occasion to reflect on women's accomplishments and to consider their continued struggle for equality, justice, and development around the world.

Statistics from global women's organisation Aurora show that females are still earning 20 to 50 per cent less than men, while unemployment remains higher for women than men in most countries.

Women are also more likely to be victims of poor safety standards at work, yet are least likely to file complaints or take time off.