Debate Over Relocating Women's Day
In Kyiv, ahead of International Women's Day on March 8th, a legislative proposal is sparking significant debate among lawmakers. Draft law No. 15052, submitted for consideration, suggests moving the official celebration of Women's Day to February 25th. This discussion is taking place under the conditions of martial law. It's important to note that March 8th is officially enshrined as a state holiday in Article 73 of Ukraine's Labor Code. However, under law No. 2136-IX, adopted on March 15, 2022, the provisions governing public holidays and non-working days have been temporarily suspended.
Flower Costs and New Legislative Proposals
The price of flowers, a traditional gift for the occasion, is also a topic of interest. At informal markets, the cost for a single tulip starts at 50 UAH, while at established retail locations, the price reaches around 60 UAH. Potted tulips, typically sold in sets of three, range from 250 to 400 UAH. Potted compositions of primroses, crocuses, and daffodils fall into a similar price category of 250 to 400 UAH. The price for a branch of mimosa varies from 50 to 250 UAH, and roses cost between 80 and 180 UAH per stem. At Silpo supermarkets, a bunch of daffodils can be found for 99 UAH.
Furthermore, in February 2023, a separate draft law, No. 9009, was submitted to the Verkhovna Rada. This bill proposes canceling March 8th, May 1st, and May 9th as holidays. Instead, it would introduce several new commemorative days:
- February 25 – Day of the Ukrainian Woman
- March 9 – Birthday of Taras Shevchenko
- The second Sunday in May – Mother's Day
It is worth noting that February 25th is also the birthday of the poet Lesya Ukrainka.
The Verkhovna Rada's Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, has spoken in defense of March 8th, emphasizing the importance of this holiday for Ukrainian society.
These debates over potentially moving the holiday and its status during wartime remain current, while flower prices continue to be a key consideration for those preparing for the day. The discussion about shifting the celebration from March 8th to February 25th occurs against a backdrop of broader societal changes and adaptations to the new realities created by the war in Ukraine. This issue touches not only on traditional celebrations but also reflects evolving values and the challenges faced by Ukrainians. The significance of Women's Day remains high, as underscored by the public and official reactions to potential changes in its status.