International Equal Pay Day: Significance and Global Observance

Key facts

• International Equal Pay Day is observed annually on September 18, a date established by the United Nations (UN) through Resolution A/RES/74/142.
• The Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) was formed in 2017 as a coordinating body involving governments, employers, and workers.
• Leadership coordination for the coalition is provided by UN Women, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
• The steering committee of the EPIC includes Canada, Iceland, Switzerland, South Africa, and the International Organisation of Employers.
• The European Union (EU) Pay Transparency Directive requires member states to mandate gender pay reporting for employers with 100 or more workers by June 2026.