March 08: Today is the 'International Women's Day--a day dedicated to women all over the world. It is a day to recap the struggles of the last year, assess progress and initiate discussion about women's issues. In Bangladesh too, NGOs, government and civil society will observe this day through seminars, processions and meetings. The Daily Star spoke to eight eminent women from the world of art and culture about the importance of this day.

Ferdousi Majumdar, actress
A special day, earmarked internationally to promote women's rights, is a step in the right direction. Though women are gaining greater access to health, education and information, the reality is that we live in a male dominated society. The situation of rural women is particularly pathetic and needs to be addressed by policy makers.

Ferdousi Priyobhashini, sculptor
Given the discrimination that women face even today, I believe that it is important to have a special day dedicated to them. However, just one special day is not enough. As women have found to their bitter experience, we need more than meetings and processions once a year.

Ferdousi Rahman, Singer
In our country, we have to accept the reality of violence against women. This is exemplified by dowry killings, acid attacks and domestic abuse. We need to look at women's issues the year round. Society needs to address itself to improving the position of women in the long term.

Dolly Zahur, actress
Women activists and the political leaders should give proper direction to the women's movement. Personally, I don't believe that the women can truly achieve their rights through observing one day in the year as International Women's Day. We need to join hands with women from all over the world.

Catherine Masud, film maker
Of the 365 days in a year, only one day is for women. I strongly believe that each and every day is for women. Women all over the world are deprived of their rights. It is only a question of degree. In Bangladesh, women are particularly deprived and the problem of poverty cannot be solved rapidly.

Joya Ahsan, model-TV actress
Why is there only one day for women? Every moment belongs to women. However we are at a long distance from our goal of equality for women. In a small and less developed country like Bangladesh, the pressing needs of development make it difficult for women to get their place in the sun. Just words will not do.

Aupi Karim, actress-model
Paying lip service to women's issues will not help. We need to mobilise public opinion so that women get a better deal. Education is critical for women to achieve their true potential. The status of rural women needs particular attention. We should enlist the support of our family, friends and society.

Munmun Ahmed, dancer
Though women are now visible in the workforce, they are still second class citizens both at home and outside. Their rights to health care, education and information need to be safeguarded. Society needs to nurture the talents and skills of women. Women need to work together and strive for greater tolerance