Thousands of people plan to attend a rally in Belfast on Saturday for International Women’s Day. The event calls for solidarity to end human rights abuses against women and girls.

The rally starts with assembly at Writer’s Square at 11.30am. Marchers will leave at noon along Royal Avenue. Speeches begin at 12.30pm outside City Hall. Celebrations continue at 2 Royal Avenue with stalls, storytelling, yoga, and a photo booth.

Former President Mary Robinson will speak on the theme of strength in solidarity. She noted that women’s rights and gender equality face pressures in many parts of the world and that the day requires unity in support of these rights.

Other speakers include Azadeh Sobout, a postdoctoral research fellow at Queen’s University Belfast and Iranian human rights activist; Maggie Ronayne of Global Women’s Strike; Sharon Coyle from Surviving Economic Abuse; artist Deirdre McKenna; and a representative from Youth Action.

Azadeh Sobout will address demands for democracy in Iran and opposition to both the current regime and the previous monarchy. Helen Crickard of organisers Reclaim the Agenda stated that International Women’s Day connects to peace efforts.

Organisers demand improved protections for victims of assault, abuse, and paramilitary violence. They call for a healthcare system that takes women’s pain seriously and better access to care for the transgender community. They urge society to address the Troubles legacy to prevent youth violence.

Sharon Coyle stated that collective action with survivors can end economic abuse. Maggie Ronayne called for investment in care instead of conflict across social divides.