Washing machine liberated women says Vatican

The humble washing machine has been the ultimate liberator for modern women, having a greater effect than the pill or being able to work outside the home, according to the Vatican.

A recent article in recognition of International Women's Day in the official Vatican newspaper, Osservatore Romano made the claim, stating that the appliance had played "the most part in the emancipation of Western women in the twentieth century."

"In the 20th century, what contributed most to the emancipation of Western women?" the article asked according to media reports.

"The debate is still open. Some say it was the pill, others the liberalisation of abortion, or being able to work outside the home. Others go even further: the washing machine," it stated.

International Women's Day, which has been around since the early 1900's, is being celebrated around the world today.

One of the main themes of the event this year is women and men taking a stand against violence against women and girls