International Women's Day 2025
On this International Women's Day (8 March), we celebrate the remarkable contributions of women trade unionists and representatives within the Accord family.
With almost three-quarters of Accord’s members being women, we recognise the immense impact you have—not only on our union and workplaces but also on your families, communities, and beyond. Your dedication, resilience, and advocacy are at the heart of everything we do.
As we mark this important day, let's take a moment to acknowledge the vital role you play in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

IWD 2025 Theme: ‘Accelerate Action’
This year’s campaign theme, Accelerate Action, is a call for collective efforts to drive gender equality forward.
At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158 - roughly five generations from now - to achieve full gender parity, according to the World Economic Forum. That’s far too long.
The focus on Accelerate Action highlights the urgency of dismantling systemic barriers, addressing workplace biases, and pushing for meaningful change. It’s a reminder that progress must happen faster, and we all have a role to play in making that a reality.
So let’s work together to Accelerate Action and speed up the journey towards true equality.
Wishing you a Happy International Women's Day - may it be filled with joy, pride, and continued success in all that you do.
There's plenty of useful resources available on the IWD site.

TUC Women’s Conference 2025
From 5 - 7 March, 300 women trade union activists from across the UK gathered in London for the TUC Women’s Conference 2025. Accord was proudly represented by our President, Carol Knowles, alongside PEC members Lisa Sullivan, Nicola Hunter, Sarah Cockburn, and Jennifer Winning.
The conference tackled key issues affecting women in the workplace, including:
- The rise of the far-right and populist movements, and their impact on women
- Misogyny in workplaces
- Women’s health at work
- Tackling sexual harassment
In addition to addressing challenges, this year’s conference celebrated the opportunities that the Government’s landmark Employment Rights Bill will bring for working women.
A full report will be available in the next edition of My Accord magazine.