International Women's Day Losing Favor in Ukraine: Only 45% Plan to Celebrate in 2026.

Declining Popularity of March 8th Celebrations

According to TSN.ua: A recent survey reveals a significant drop in the number of Ukrainians planning to celebrate International Women's Day on March 8th in 2026. According to the findings, only 45% of respondents intend to mark the occasion, while a majority of 52% do not plan to celebrate it. This holiday, which has its roots in socialist movements, is observed in many post-Soviet states.

This figure represents a sharp decline compared to previous years. For instance, in February 2021, 68% of Ukrainians celebrated the day. The celebration rate was 77% in 2020 and 81% in 2017. The highest level of observance was recorded in 2012, when 86% of respondents marked the holiday.

Celebration Rates by Region and Gender

Plans to celebrate also vary considerably across different regions and between genders. In eastern Ukraine, 61% of people plan to celebrate, compared to 51% in the southern regions. Regarding age and gender, 58% of men aged 36-50 intend to mark the day, while only 42% of women in the same age group plan to do so.

The waning popularity of March 8th celebrations may signal shifting social values and evolving attitudes toward gender issues in Ukraine. Amidst ongoing social transformations, many Ukrainians appear to be re-evaluating traditional holidays and may prefer other ways to honor women. This trend also opens new avenues for public discussion about gender equality and the role of women in society.