International Women’s Day: Progress on Paper, Problems in Practice

Amrit Kaur, in our Employment Team, shares her views on why this day is important…

International Women’s Day on 8th March 2026 is rightly a day to celebrate, to recognise the achievements of women and the advancements made within the legal world to protect and advance their rights.

There have been undeniable advances ranging from equality legislation to flexible working rights and the pay gap reporting system. Beyond the policies and protections that exist on paper, the lived experience of many women in the workplace tells a more complicated story.

Working as an Employment Law Paralegal has shown me just how much a healthy, supportive work environment can shape growth and confidence. I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by amazing female colleagues who inspire me every day – guiding me, challenging me, and encouraging me to be the best version of myself.

This International Women’s Day inspires me to continue contributing as much as I can to a profession and a firm which recognises equality as a major principle and actively ensuring that this is delivered in practice.

Equal Pay Act 1970

Over the past decades, there have been incontestable strides forward for women in the workplace. From the introduction of the Equal Pay Act 1970 to the Equality Act 2010, it has become unlawful for employers to pay individuals differently for the same or similar work based on sex. Further transparency was introduced through mandatory gender pay gap reporting as of April 2018, requiring organisations in Great Britain with over 250 employees to publish their gender pay data.

Right to Parental Leave 2015

Parental rights have also evolved, with the Right to Parental Leave in April 2015 allowing for both parents to take time off work to care for their child regardless of gender. Progressive steps towards recognising shared responsibility in both family life and the workplace.

Working as a Paralegal, I see first-hand the difference strong legal protections can make, but also the gaps that still exist in practice.

On paper, it seems as though these protections are strong. They signify progress, accountability and a clear commitment to equality.

Lived Experience of Women

However, beyond legislation the lived experience of many women in the workplace is telling. Gender disparities, barriers to career progression, unconscious bias and the balancing of professional and personal responsibilities remain realities for many women. A framework has been provided through the many advancements but true equality rests on how those rights are implemented in practice.

International Women’s Day is not only a celebration of how far we’ve come, but also a reminder of the work still to be done.

It is an opportunity to continue striving for meaningful change – for our colleagues, our clients and our family and friends.

On behalf of myself and my colleagues, we are wishing you an amazing International Women’s Day. Here’s to making our mark and striving for continuous change!

If you would like to find out more about IWD and the 2026 “Give To Gain” Campaign click here.

If you are affected by inequality or discrimination in the workplace, Contact Us. Our employment lawyers and professionals are at the top of their game for expertise and willingness to help you.