Background of a decade celebrating soils World Soil Day (WSD) is held annually on 5 December as a means to focus attention on the importance of healthy soil and to advocate for the sustainable management of soil resources. An international day to celebrate soil was recommended by the International Union […]
World Population Day – 11 July
The United Nations’ (UN) World Population Day is annually observed on July 11 to reaffirm the human right to plan for a family. It encourages activities, events and information to help make this right a reality throughout the world. Background In 1968 world leaders proclaimed that individuals had a basic […]
International Day against Nuclear Tests – 29 August
Since nuclear weapons testing began on 16 July 1945, nearly 2,000 have taken place. Early on, having nuclear weapons was seen as a measure of scientific sophistication or military might, with little consideration given to the devastating effects of testing on human life, let alone the dangers of nuclear fallout […]
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought – 17 June
The United Nations’ World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is annually observed on June 17 to highlight the urgent need to curb the desertification process. It also aims to strengthen the visibility of the drylands issue on the international environmental agenda. Background In December 1994, the United Nations General […]
International Day of the African Child – 16 June
The Day of the African Child has been celebrated on June 16 every year since 1991, when it was first initiated by the OAU Organisation of African Unity. It honors those who participated in the Soweto Uprising in 1976 on that day. It also raises awareness of the continuing need for […]
World Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse – 19 November
Creating a culture of prevention Abuse of children and adolescents is a complex international problem that seems to defy simple analysis and easy answers. To understand child abuse and exploitation, and to make an impact on the outcomes of these children, the NICHD is joining the American Psychological Association in […]
International Gun Destruction Day – 9 July
With as many as 640 million guns circulating in the world today, approximately one per every ten persons, the fear of and threat to civilians posed by small arms and light weapons (SALW) cannot be overstated. With this in mind, governments, international organization and NGOs around the world mark 9 […]
International Day for Biological Diversity – 22 May
The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. Mainstreaming Biodiversity; Sustaining People and their Livelihoods Biodiversity is the foundation for life and for the essential services provided by ecosystems. It therefore underpins peoples’ livelihoods and sustainable […]
World Day for Cultural Diversity, for Dialogue and Development – 21 May
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is annually held on May 21 to help people learn about the importance of cultural diversity and harmony. Various events are organized to increase the understanding of issues around cultural diversity and development among governments, non-governmental organizations and the public. Many […]
World Fair Trade Day – 11 May
ISEAL Global Sustainability Standards Conference The 2016 Global Sustainability Standards Conference is the leading global event for those who support the uptake of credible sustainability standards. It will bring together over 250 sustainability leaders and experts from NGOs, government, business and academia to discuss the theme of Growing Impacts: Innovation […]