“Do not let the doors slam shut again!”

International Women's Day 2026: Interview with our Equal Opportunities Officer

International Women's Day is celebrated annually on March 8. It originated before World War I in the struggle for equal rights, women's suffrage, and the emancipation of female workers. We spoke with our equal opportunities officer, Julia Jacobs, about this day.

Why do you think that the World Women’s Day is important?
Julia Jacobs: Every International Women's Day is another milestone where we pause and consciously reflect on what has already been achieved, where equality between men and women has fortunately already become a matter of course, and where efforts still need to be made or even renewed because previous achievements are in danger of being lost again.

Why should more women venture into science?
Julia: Because they can! Women, seize your opportunities to play an active role in shaping the world, and the world of research in particular! Only by being actively involved can you have a say in where things are going and what topics are being researched. Freedoms and rights that are relinquished for too long will eventually disappear. Yes, it can feel like pressure to have opportunities and be expected to take advantage of them, but the pioneers of equality made many sacrifices, and in many countries today, women still make sacrifices and take great risks to improve the situation for other women and girls. This imposes a responsibility on all of us not to simply let the doors they worked so hard to open slam shut again.

This year's motto is “Give to gain.” What does that mean to you?
Julia: When you support good causes and get involved in social issues, whether in your private, professional, or public life, and in whatever way, it makes society in general a warmer, more humane place where everyone, including yourself, can live more comfortably. You also encourage others to follow your example. This multiplication of kindness increases the likelihood that you yourself will receive support when you need it.

You can find more information on World Women’s Day over here.