2026 New Year Message from the United Nations Secretary-General.

As we enter the new year, the world stands at a crossroads.
Chaos and uncertainty surround us.
Division. Violence. Climate breakdown. And systemic violations of international law.
A retreat from the very principles that bind us together as a human family.
People everywhere are asking: Are leaders even listening? Are they ready to act.
As we turn the page on a turbulent year, one fact speaks louder than words:
Global military spending has soared to 2.7 trillion dollars, growing by almost 10%.
That is thirteen times more than all development aid, equivalent to the entire Gross Domestic Product of Africa.
All, while conflict rages at levels unseen since World War II.
On this new year, let’s resolve to get our priorities straight.
A safer world begins by investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars. Peace must prevail.
It’s clear the world has the resources to lift lives, heal the planet, and secure a future of peace and justice.
In 2026, I call on leaders everywhere: Get serious. Choose people and planet over pain.
And I urge everyone who hears this message: Play your part.
Our future depends on our collective courage to act.
This new year, let’s rise together:
For justice. For humanity. For peace.

United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres.

 

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness 2025; December 27th.

FORUM: "Are we ready for the next Pandemic?'' International Day of Epidemic Preparedness 2025. The world is better prepared for the next pandemic thanks to new WHO initiatives, The Global Funds, and faster vaccine development goals (like CEPI's 100 Days Mission), but significant Gaps in global health security remain, requiring continued investment and coordination to address challenges like equitable access and surveillance. While improvements are evident, readiness isn't 100%, with ongoing efforts to strengthen systems for rapid detection and response. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #EpidemicPreparedness, #27December, #InternationalDayofEpidemicPreparedness.

EVENTS: On December 27th, the World Health Assembly (WHA) and World Health Organization (WHO) will hold a webinar to mark the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness.

 
Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness 2025; December 27th.


On this important day, we remind ourselves that resilient communities are fundamental to preventing, and responding to, epidemics and pandemics.

Our best defense lies not only in science, but in strong local health systems, well-supported frontline health workers, and local leaders who are prepared to guide their communities through crisis.

As epidemic and pandemic threats rise, and humanitarian crises multiply, there is no time to waste.

To help communities and governments prevent and respond to future pandemics, countries worked with the World Health Organization to develop the Pandemic Agreement. The Agreement aims to ensure people everywhere have equitable access to vaccines, treatments, equipment, information and care in a pandemic.

Across every village, city and health centre, it’s time to boost investment in community-based systems for detection, surveillance, communication and containment.

When communities are protected, we are all protected.

Let’s help all communities build a strong foundation for both prevention and recovery.

Let’s stop epidemics in their tracks.

António Guterres, Secretary-General.

World Meditation Day 2025; December 21st.

FORUM: ''Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony'' World Meditation Day 2025. In an era characterized by unprecedented technological development and information flows, humanity finds itself increasingly distant from inner peace and mental well-being. World Meditation Day is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of meditation in navigating the complexities of contemporary life. Practice of meditation is a holistic approach to mental, emotional, spiritual and physical wellness. At its core, it represents a deliberate technique to enable practitioners to achieve a mentally harmonious and emotionally calm state of being. In today's high-stress environment, where anxiety, and mental health challenges have become pervasive, meditation offers a crucial sanctuary of inner calm and introspection. Scientifically validated research demonstrates its profound impact on neuroplasticity, stress reduction, emotional regulation, and overall cognitive functioning. The declaration of World Meditation Day comes at a time, when various regions of the world are witnessing conflicts and growing tensions. Meditation is rooted in ancient practices and stands out as an effective tool to achieve inner transformation and peace in the modern day. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Meditation, #WorldMeditationDay, #21December.

EVENT: On Decembet 19th, from 10:00am - 12:00pm (EST) at the Trusteeship Council, UNHQ New York, an event entitled ''Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony'' will be held to mark the World Meditation Day 2025. In this context, the Permanent Mission of India along with members of the core group invites Member States to commemorate the 2nd World Meditation Day. The event features reflections from internationally recognized experts on well-being, followed by a guided meditation session led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Get the concept note, the Invitation and register to participate!

LIVESTREAM

International Human Solidarity Day 2025; December 20th.

FORUM: “A call for unity and action.” International Human Solidarity Day 2025. Solidarity is the principle that recognizes our common humanity and the interconnectedness of our destinies. It highlights the need for collective effort, cooperation, and mutual understanding to solve complex challenges such as poverty, hunger, climate change, and conflict. This day serves as an opportunity to celebrate achievements made through solidarity and to recommit to building a more just and equitable world. To promote human solidarity, it is important to actively engage in your community, and get involved in different activities and events. This means helping out and supporting causes that help people who are in need. By doing this, we can bring people from different backgrounds together and help them understand each other better. It’s also important to support local projects that help address homelessness, education, and health. In this way, we show compassion for our community members, making sure every individual is cared for. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #SolidarityDay, #20December, #HumanSolidarityDay, #TheWorldWeWant, #PromotingSolidarity, #LeaveNoOneBehind.

EVENTS: On December 20th, the United Nations system organizations will hold a virtual event to discuss the values of unity, kindness, and diversity to mark the International Human Solidarity Day 2025 at the UNHQ. The Observance of the International Human Solidarity Day is a special day that reminds us that we are all part of the same human family. It teaches us the importance of working together and helping each other. When we work together in solidarity, we can overcome any problem or difficulty. The celebration of this day will encourage us to think about how we can make the world a better place for everyone. Register to participate!

 

Our planet is under strain like never before: Temperatures are rising, biodiversity is collapsing, and nearly every person on Earth breathes unsafe air.

Yet there is hope.

Now is the time to invest in resilience, commit to justice, and remember what we are fighting for.

Sustainability is the bedrock on which all our other ambitions rest. Peace, prosperity, equality — none of these exist without a planet to exist on.

Now is the time for courage and creativity.

We must rapidly scale solutions on a range of challenges — from water management and climate resilience, to mining metals and the environmental footprint of Artificial Intelligence.

With the tide turning in favor of renewables, and the help of the next generation, transformation is within reach. We must transform broken systems, unite policy with science, and share solutions with all.

Now is the time set humanity on a path to protect our only home, for generations to come.

United Nations Secretary-General.

Arabic Language Day 2025; December 18th.

 

FORUM: “Innovative Pathways for Arabic: Policies and Practices for a More Inclusive Linguistic Future." Arabic Language Day 2025. The 2025 edition of World Arabic Language Day explores how innovation and inclusion can shape the future of the Arabic language. The celebrations will spotlight how education, media, technology, and public policy are driving more accessible, dynamic, and socially responsive uses of Arabic. Closely aligned with UNESCO’s MOST Programme, the theme reflects a commitment to inclusive, evidence-based approaches to social development. In an era of rapid digital transformation, this year’s focus on initiatives that expand Arabic’s presence across education systems, digital platforms, and public discourse, especially in multilingual or under-resourced communities. By showcasing forward-looking and cross-sector practices, the 2025 celebrations aim to promote linguistic equity, empower diverse communities, and ensure Arabic remains a vibrant, adaptable language rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #ArabicLanguageDay, #18December, #Arabiclanguage, #Multilingualism.

EVENTS: At UNESCO Headquarters in Paris; On December 18th; The celebration of World Arabic Language Day 2025 will be held from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm GMT. The UNESCO organizes round table discussions and cultural performances to explore innovative pathways for the Arabic language. This year’s commemoration also coincides with the 52nd anniversary of the proclamation of Arabic as one of the six UN official languages. To pay tribute to the poetic and artistic brilliance of the Arabic language, UNESCO will bring together researchers, academics, youth, and heads of international institutions. Together, let’s shape inclusive policies and practices for a richer linguistic future. Learn more about the event and Register to participate and Watch the webcast!

PRIZES: Applicants to the Prize for Arab culture must have contributed significantly towards the development, dissemination and the promotion of Arab culture in the world. The prize is awarded annually to two individuals, groups, or institutions who have made an exceptional contribution to the dissemination and promotion of Arab art and culture. The prize highlights efforts to strengthen global awareness of Arab culture while promoting intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding between cultures. It carries a monetary value of 60,000 USD, which is equally divided between the two laureates. The winners of the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab Culture will be announced. The event will serve as a solid platform to delve into the discussions while fostering cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue. Register to Participate!

Award:  Sharjah Award for Arab Culture to UNESCO. 

With the recommendations of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and in celebration of Sharjah being chosen as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World for the year 1998, the Emirate of Sharjah proposed the establishment of the Sharjah Award for Arab Culture to UNESCO. The award aims to recognize the efforts of cultural figures, both men and women, as well as institutions or groups that contribute through their intellectual, artistic, or promotional works to the development and dissemination of Arab culture worldwide. Nominations for the award are proposed to the Director-General by the governments of member states of UNESCO and relevant non-governmental organizations that have official relations with UNESCO.

Terms and conditions of participation

• The nomination for the award must be accompanied by a written recommendation, including:
• Description of the nominee's works.
• Summary of the results achieved by their works.
• Statement of the nominee's contribution to the development or better dissemination of Arab culture.
• Nomination files are submitted to the jury members, who discuss the entire set of nominations. Based on this, two winners are selected and proposed to the Director-General of UNESCO.

Selection Criteria:

• Innovation
• Contribution to research and promotion of societal values and aspirations, especially in the fields of women and youth.
• Contribution to the development of cultural heritage.
• Highlighting unity in the creative diversity of humanity.
• Contribution to dialogue between cultures and civilizations.
• The nominee's place and uniqueness of their vision regarding others.
• Respect for others in their differences.

Necessary attachments

Nominees can be individuals, groups, or institutions that have contributed to the development, dissemination, and promotion of Arab culture worldwide, as well as the preservation of intangible Arab cultural heritage.

Additional notes

Selection of Winners:The winners are selected by the Director-General of UNESCO based on proposals submitted by the jury committee.

Contact: MS.Shama/ Phone: 00330145685591/0033145684271. Email: s.chokkam-snnderraj@unesco.org

Awards
The award is valued at $60,000 USD and is awarded annually by the Government of Sharjah (United Arab Emirates), with equal distribution between winners from an Arab country and a non-Arab country.

International Migrants Day 2025; December 18th.

FORUM:“My Great Story: Cultures and Development.” International Migrants Day 2025. 

This year’s theme highlights how human mobility drives growth, enriches societies, and helps communities connect, adapt, and support one another. This year observance gives us a special opportunity to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants around the world. It's also a day for us to highlight the increasingly complex environment in which migration occurs. Migration is a defining force of our century. Remittances to low- and middle-income countries are projected to reach a record USD 685 billion, and migrants are central to addressing labour shortages, driving innovation, and supporting demographic stability. Yet these contributions can only be maximized when migration is safe, orderly, and responsibly governed. Well-managed migration is a strategic asset: it strengthens resilience, fuels prosperity, and supports social cohesion. From documentation and skills recognition to integration and dignified return, effective systems ensure migrants can find stability, support their families, and build new futures, while helping communities adapt and thrive. Conflicts, climate-related disasters and economic pressures continue to drive millions of people from their homes in search of safety or simply opportunity. This past year, we saw record levels of internal displacement, rising humanitarian needs across ongoing and new crises, and, tragically, the highest-ever death toll of migrants in transit. Yet, alongside these challenges, are stories of resilience, progress and hope. Where safe and well-managed migration holds extraordinary potential. Migrants play critical roles in labour markets, filling skills gaps, driving innovation and entrepreneurship, and addressing demographic challenges in aging societies. Migrants boost economic growth and provide a lifeline to families and communities back home, driving development. The evidence is overwhelming that when migration is managed safely and strategically, it can be a powerful force for good. By supporting regular pathways for migration, we can enable opportunities for migrants, better protect their rights, and contribute to greater prosperity in the countries migrants come from and those that host them. Together, one step at a time, we can continue building a world where migration is safe, orderly, and beneficial – for everyone. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #InternationalMigrantsDay, #18December, #MigrantsDay, #safeMigration, #RegularMigration, #OrderlyMigration.

EVENTS: On December 18th, the UN Migration, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants and the specialized agencies will host a webinar to mark the day from the IOM Headquarter in Switzerland. Migration continues to shape economies, communities, and global development. On this International Migrants Day 2025, the International Organization for Migration calls for smarter policies, stronger cooperation, and a renewed commitment to making migration work for all. Because every migrant’s journey is a story of resilience and possibility, and because when migration is managed well, each personal story becomes part of a larger one that enriches cultures, strengthens development, and benefits us all. “My Great Story” is not only a migrant’s story—it is our shared story of building a fairer, more sustainable future through mobility. Register to participate!

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Migrants Day 2025; December 18th.

Migration is a powerful driver of progress — lifting economies, connecting cultures, and benefiting countries of origin and destination alike.

Yet when migration is poorly governed or misrepresented, it can fuel hate and division, endangering the lives of people seeking safety and opportunity.

Since 2014, nearly 70,000 migrants have died or gone missing along land and sea routes, with the true number likely far higher. Borders are tightening, smugglers and traffickers are thriving, and women and children are among the most at risk.

Seven years ago, the international community adopted the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration — an effort to maximize migration’s benefits while managing its challenges.

We can and must harness the power of migration to advance sustainable development and build more resilient societies. This starts with challenging the narratives that dehumanize migrants, and replacing them with stories of solidarity.

On this International Migrants Day, let us stand together for the rights of every migrant, and make migration dignified and safe for all.

Statement of the UN Women on International Migrants Day 2025, December 18th.


Today, on International Migrants Day, we celebrate migration as a powerful story of resilience, connection, and shared progress. The theme — “My Great Story: Cultures and Development” — recognizes the profound ways in which human mobility shapes our world: enriching societies, sparking innovation, and advancing sustainable development when grounded in dignity and rights.

Migration has always been a force that binds the world together. Across borders and generations, the movement of people has driven cultural exchange, strengthened communities, and energized economies.



At the heart of this story are women.

Whether migrating themselves, supporting loved ones from afar, or adapting to the changes migration brings to their households, women play a vital and often invisible role. Their earnings sustain families. Their care work supports entire communities. Their leadership helps societies adapt and flourish.

Yet for too many migrant women and girls, the journey is marked by risk — not opportunity. Unsafe working conditions, discrimination, violence, and lack of legal protection continue to threaten their rights and safety. Even as they send life-changing remittances home, these contributions often come at great personal cost.

UN Women is working in partnership with governments, civil society, and migrant-led organizations around the world to uphold the rights and dignity of migrant women and girls — and to ensure their voices lead the conversation.

In Ethiopia, for example, a young woman from Tigray who survived exploitation as a domestic worker abroad returned home and began to rebuild her life. With support from UN Women’s partner, Agar Ethiopia, she accessed shelter, health care, legal aid, psychosocial support, and vocational training. Her journey toward justice and recovery shows what’s possible when services are survivor-centred and gender-responsive.

This is what it means to protect rights and unlock potential.

As we mark this day, UN Women honours the strength, leadership, and courage of migrant women and girls everywhere. Their stories are stories of hope, transformation, and global connection. Their contributions are essential — to families, communities, and the shared future we are building together.

Statement of the IOM Senior Leadership Message on International Migrants Day 2025.

Today we're celebrating something that touches all of us every single day, often without us even realizing it. Migration. It's in the food we share, the music that moves us. The ideas powering our businesses, our sports, our technology.
People on the move shape our world quietly, beautifully, and far too often without recognition. So this year's theme, my great story, reminds us that behind every journey is a story of strength, of someone who is seeking opportunity, building a better life, supporting loved ones, or using their talent to create something new. Migration is not simply about moving from one place to another. It is fundamentally about contribution. When migration is safe and well-governed, everyone benefits.
Workers fill essential roles. Students learn and innovate. Families find stability. Communities grow stronger. And achieving this means investing in systems that help people access documents, education, services, decent work for decent pay, and when they choose a dignified return home. But no country can do this alone. We need partnerships across governments, communities, the private sector, and migrants themselves. Today we celebrate migrants as builders of progress and bridges between cultures. Their stories are not stories of crisis. They are stories of possibility. So let's honor these stories. Let's work together to make sure that every person on the move can live, contribute, and thrive with dignity. 

Happy International Migrants Day.

Message of the IOM Global Goodwill Ambassador America Ferrera Message on IMD 2025,

I'm America Ferrer and this is my great story. I like to think of my story as a migration story, but it's not just mine.
It's a story shared by millions of people who have left home. Sometimes because they had no choice and sometimes because they saw a chance. People who took risks in the hope of a better, safer, more hopeful future. For my family, that meant leaving Honduras and starting over in a place that promised opportunity, but demanded courage and hard work in return. My mother worked tirelessly so my siblings and I could grow up believing that anything was possible. I carry their journey and their sacrifices with me today. Every challenge, every audition, every achievement felt like part of a larger path, one built on courage, determination, and hope. And today when I look back from my humble beginnings to realizing my wildest dreams, I am reminded just how beautiful our stories are. Stories of overcoming hardship, beginning again, building homes and communities, and contributing even when the odds are against us. These are the stories that connect us, inspire us, and remind us that migration is at its core a human story and one that will always live close to my heart. This is my great story. What's yours?



Message of the IOM Global Goodwill Ambassador Dimash Qudaibergen Message on IMD 2025.

Through his encounters with migrants across the globe, IOM Global Goodwill Ambassador Dimash Qudaibergen shares how their strength, hope and resilience shaped his passion to stand with them and uplift their voices. 

“Every story is a great story.”

International Universal Health Coverage Day 2025; December 12th.

FORUM: “Unaffordable health costs? We’re sick of it!” International Universal Health Coverage Day 2025. The theme focuses on the lived experience behind these statistics, reminding government decision-makers that unaffordable health costs are making our communities poorer and sicker and holding us back on all of the Sustainable Development Goals. On UHC Day, WHO calls for urgent action to implement financial protection measures and eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. Despite numerous high-level political commitments to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, more than half of the world’s population still lacks access to essential health services. One in four people face financial hardship when paying for health care out of their own pockets-often at the expense of basic needs such as food, education or housing. Health for all is a prerequisite for achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Healthier populations foster communities that are more resilient, productive, peaceful and prosperous. When people delay or forgo health care due to costs, they risk worsening health outcomes and longer-term health and financial burden. Conversely, when governments prioritize to ensure people have access to affordable health care, they lay the groundwork for sustainable progress across all sectors. This UHC Day, let’s share the stories behind the data to remind leaders that these aren’t just statistics, but human lives we’re talking about, Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Timeforaction, #Healthexpenditure, #InvestinHealth, #healthForAll, #UHC, #12December, #UHCday, #UniversalHealthCoverage.

EVENTS: On December 12th, the Universal Health Coverage Day 2025 shines a spotlight on the devastating human impact of unaffordable health costs. More than half the world’s population still lacks access to essential health services. And a quarter of them face financial hardship when paying for health care out of their own pockets, often at the expense of food, education or housing. These numbers can be hard to grasp, but we must not forget that there are real people behind them. Register to participate!

CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: The campaign toolkit provides a step-by-step guide to help advocates raise their voice and get involved, including messaging and visuals in multiple languages.
Explore the materials in Arabic, in Chinese, in French in Russian in Spanish languages and Get the communication materials!

The UHC Day campaign aims:

• Recognize and celebrate UHC progress in the regions;
• Raise awareness to improve understanding on the importance of UHC for societal and economic wellbeing.
• Empower the public and civil societies to actively engage policy makers to deliver on their UHC commitments.