This day aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide. By 2016, the commemorations had taken place in 132 countries across the globe.

The day aims to help nations worldwide eliminate discrimination against women. It is also focused on helping women gain full and equal participation in global development

The day originated in 2001 when over 25,000 sex workers gathered in India for a sex worker festival. Sex worker groups across the world have subsequently celebrated 3 March as International Sex Workers’ Rights Day.