Social media was awash with positive posts related to International Women’s Day (IWD) on Thursday.

But why has this occasion become so popular? The Examiner went to Strand Street to ask residents whether they believe problems still exist for women in the island today.

’There’s no reason why women who’ve been successful shouldn’t be celebrated like men,’ said Laura Turner, 34, from London.

’I do think there is more pressure for women to work and raise kids today. I work and do a degree in English, while raising kids. However, gender equality has changed a lot, for instance, more men are staying at home.

She added: ’Women can over egg it sometimes. I’ve heard women calling it a "hate crime" if men wolf whistle at them. I wouldn’t call it that - it’s gone too far.’

Her partner, Aaron Turner, aged 37, said: ’I didn’t know about IWD today and didn’t realise there was one for men too (November 19).’

Rachel Smith, 48, from Glen Maye, said: ’When I was in hairdressing there weren’t a lot of men, but I think males are more accepted in that occupation now.

’I later went into banking and noticed more males in manager roles.

’I think men are able to climb the work ladder more easily because they don’t have all those issues like shopping and looking after children, they just go into work.’

Her 21-year-old daughter, Karha, from Peel, agreed.

She added: ’I don’t think you need a day, as women should be celebrated all year round for what they do.’

Douglas resident William Ruggieri, 28, said: ’I’m orignally from Italy and IWD is quite popular there.

’I agree with having a day and I am a feminist, but I think IDW is becoming something commercial.

’In the island, everybody is treated as equals. For example, women the same age as my mum, in their 60s, are hiding themselves away when they smoke in Italy, but that doesn’t happen here.’

Aaron Ibanez, 25, from Douglas, said: ’One thing I believe in is that menstrual supplies should be made free. Condoms in health clinics are available for free, but things like sanitary pads aren’t. I don’t know the figures spent on these things per year, but we need to be socially progressive in the island and provide it free of charge.

’It’s about basic human needs and we should take the burn off women.’

Peel resident Jane Thatchell, 73, said: ’I’m a member of the Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, which exists in the UK, but not in the island. One of the things asked is that women should support fellow women in the working world.

’Women need rights still and we have a day to be aware of this. In so many parts of the world women have nothing. I take great delight in travelling, as I can say that the island was the first place to give women’s rights.’

Daryl White, 54, Ramsey, said: ’Of course I think there should be a day to celebrate women. I have four ladies in my life.’

He nods towards his wife, mother-in-law and daughters who are with him.

’Gender equality is a big topic at the moment. Some people get the impression that it’s talked about too much, but it needs to be talked about.

’My wife and I have been talking about these things for a while, as parents of girls, because what goes on today will affect them more than us.’