Nelson Mandela International Day 2025; July 18th.

FORUM: "It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity." Nelson Mandela International Day 2025. The day is an opportunity for citizens to recognise their individual power to change the world for the better. We can also play a part by raising awareness and expanding the reach of Mandela’s values which include fighting injustice, helping people in need and advancing reconciliation. We can restore our nation by helping one person at a time. Every action we take has a knock-on effect, which will soon snowball into rebuilding our nation. It is through this united front that we can build stronger communities and stronger societies. Government encourages citizens to donate their time to make a difference in their communities this Nelson Mandela Day. Through our actions we can help make sustainable and long-term interventions in combating climate change and food insecurity. Madiba encouraged every individual to take responsibility and be the change they want to see. One area we can bring about positive change is through our fight against climate change which is impacting numerous areas of life including food security. Today and every day, Let us find hope in Nelson Mandela’s example and inspiration in his vision; Let us honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy by taking action: By speaking out against hate and standing up for human rights. By embracing our common humanity – rich in diversity, equal in dignity, united in solidarity and by making our world more just, compassionate, prosperous, and sustainable for all. Follow the conversations with the hashtags; #MandelaDay, #Itisinyourhands, #18july.

EVENTS: Informal plenary meeting to mark the Nelson Mandela International Day 2025: On July 18th, starting at 10:00 a.m. (EST) at the United Nations Trusteeship Council Chamber; The United Nations General Assembly marks Nelson Mandela International Day with an informal plenary meeting under the Theme: “It's still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”. The Speakers are H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang (President of the General Assembly); H.E. Mr. António Guterres (UN Secretary-General); H.E. Ms. Naledi Pandor (Former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa); Ms. Brenda Reynolds, 2025 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize laureate; Mr. Kennedy Odede, 2025 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize laureate and the Chairpersons of regional groups. Register to participate!

Public Service Activity in NYC. : On July 18th at the Governors Island in New York Harbor, Join the Volunteering for #MandelaDay: the annual volunteer event in honour of Nelson Mandela will take place on Governors Island in New York Harbor. Volunteers will weed and pick up trash, enjoying the spectacular scenery with friends and colleagues. Each year, individuals around the world are encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time on this day to community service – in honor of the 67 years that Nelson Mandela devoted to public service and the pursuit of social justice. This year, we reflect and act under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.” The UN is also cross promoting this event and encouraging colleagues to undertake additional service projects through the ActNow campaign app.The volunteer activity is a collaboration co-organized by the NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs, the UN Department for Global Communications, the Office of the President of the UN General Assembly, and the Permanent Mission of South Africa to the UN. In cooperation with the Governors Island Foundation.

The Nelson Mandela Month 2025 organized by the Government of South Africa will be held Worldwide ;This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”. Nelson Mandela, in addressing the scourge of poverty, suffering and deprivation, said: "It is in your hands to make our world a better one for all, especially the poor, vulnerable and marginalised." These profound words by our global icon and father of our nation are at the heart of our actions this Nelson Mandela Day in tackling poverty, fighting inequality and building a society based on justice. Join the Nelson Mandela Day Campaign!
UN Chamber Music Society: Virtual Performance in Celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day: On Friday, 18 July 2025, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will present a concert in celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day. On this occasion, prepare to be captivated by the music of Wouter Kellerman, a three-time Grammy Award-winning South African flautist, producer, and composer, who has also earned nine South African Music Awards. The event will open with insightful remarks from H.E. Ms. Mathu Joyini, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations, and Ndaba Mandela, Founder & Chairman of the Mandela Institute for Humanity. Honouring the enduring legacy of the former South African President and his commitment to peace, freedom, and service, the music program will feature two powerful musical tributes composed by Wouter Kellerman: "The Long Road", an extraordinary flute solo that serves as a biographical homage to Nelson Mandela's journey, and "Madiba", a musical prayer, specially arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society, offering a heartfelt tribute that blends power and tenderness. Founded in 2016 by Brenda Vongova, the UN Chamber Music Society is dedicated to promoting the United Nations' goals and values at large - through the universal language of music. Watch the livestream!

Nelson Mandela Prize 2025: The United Nations Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize aims to recognize the achievements of those who dedicated their lives to the service of humanity as guided by the purposes and principles of the UN, while honouring and paying homage to Mandela's extraordinary life and legacy of reconciliation, political transition and social transformation. It is awarded every five years and was first awarded in 2015. The 2025 Prize is awarded to Mrs. Brenda Reynolds of Saulteaux First Nation and Canada, and Mr. Kennedy Odede of Kenya, selected by the UN Selection Committee which was advised by a group of eminent persons. The laureates will be recognized at the annual commemoration by the General Assembly of Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July 2025, which is Nelson Mandela International Day. The UN Department of Global Communications has been designated to serve as the secretariat of the Committee. Programme: Opening remarks by H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the General Assembly; Statement by H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations; Keynote by H.E. Ms. Naledi Pandor, former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation in South Africa; Awarding of the 2025 UN Mandela Prize to Ms. Brenda Reynolds and her remark; Awarding of the 2025 UN Mandela Prize to Mr. Kennedy Odede and his remarks; Remarks from Member States More on the selection process >>.

At the Randall’s Island in NYC on July 18th, the annual volunteer event in honour of Nelson Mandela will take place on Randall’s Island. Volunteers will remove invasive plants and introduce new native plantings. The volunteer activity was a collaboration co-organized by the NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs, the United Nations Department for Global Communications, the Office of the President of the United Nations General Assembly, and the Permanent Mission of South Africa to the United Nations. In partnership with Randall’s Park Alliance. Get the flyer to Learn more about the ‘‘Volunteering for #MandelaDay’’ activities.

Statement by H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on Nelson Mandela International Day 2025; July 18th.

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Madiba’s extraordinary life was a triumph of the human spirit. He endured the brutal weight of oppression and emerged not with a vision of vengeance and division — but of reconciliation, peace and unity.

Today, Madiba’s legacy is now our responsibility. We must carry forward his commitment to peace, justice and human dignity.

One of the central lessons of Mandela’s life was that power is not a personal possession, to be hoarded. Power is about lifting others up. It is about what we can achieve with one another, and for one another. Power is about people.

In every facet of his life, Nelson Mandela demonstrated the power of collective, grass-roots action to drive change and progress and deliver power to the powerless.

This same spirit can be found in today’s winners of the Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize. Ms. Brenda Reynolds is a Saulteaux member from Fishing Lake First Nation in Canada. She is a social worker, who turned her struggle against the most hideous of crimes against children into a national force for change, supporting and developing trauma responses for survivors and families of the residential schools system.

Mr. Kennedy Odede grew up in the Kibera slum in Kenya. A long-time community activist, the organization he founded unites community groups from across the country and now reaches more than 2.4 million people each year with essential services — everything from education to water.

Both prize winners embody Nelson Mandela’s words, which are engraved on their Prizes: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others.”

On behalf of the United Nations, I congratulate Ms. Reynolds and Mr. Odede on this well-deserved recognition.

As the United Nations celebrates its eightieth anniversary, Nelson Mandela’s legacy of reconciliation and transformation continues to inspire and drive us. Around the world, human rights and dignity are under threat — not only from conflict and instability, but from systematic inequalities, exclusion, climate disasters and the rollback of hard-won freedoms.

Now is the time to renew our global commitment to the principles that define our organization — and indeed, the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela. Freedom. Justice. Equal rights. Solidarity. Reconciliation. Peace.

Today, and every day, let’s continue following the path and principles set by Nelson Mandela’s life of service and progress.

Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations,

COMMEMORATIONS

Mandela Prize 2025: Resolution A/RES/64/13 recognizes Mandela's values and his dedication to the service of humanity in: conflict resolution; race relations; promotion and protection of human rights; reconciliation; gender equality and the rights of children and other vulnerable groups; the fight against poverty; the promotion of social justice.

Programme:

• Opening remarks by H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the General Assembly
• Statement by H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations
• Keynote by H.E. Ms. Naledi Pandor, former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation in South Africa
• Awarding of the 2025 UN Mandela Prize to Ms. Brenda Reynolds and her remarks
• Awarding of the 2025 UN Mandela Prize to Mr. Kennedy Odede and his remarks
• Remarks from Member States

Related Sites and Documents: More information about the Mandela Prize

On Friday, 18 July 2025, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will present a concert in celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day. On this occasion, prepare to be captivated by the music of Wouter Kellerman, a three-time Grammy Award-winning South African flautist, producer, and composer, who has also earned nine South African Music Awards. The event will open with insightful remarks from H.E. Ms. Mathu Joyini, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations, and Ndaba Mandela, Founder & Chairman of the Mandela Institute for Humanity. Honouring the enduring legacy of the former South African President and his commitment to peace, freedom, and service, the music program will feature two powerful musical tributes composed by Wouter Kellerman: "The Long Road", an extraordinary flute solo that serves as a biographical homage to Nelson Mandela's journey, and "Madiba", a musical prayer, specially arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society, offering a heartfelt tribute that blends power and tenderness. Founded in 2016 by Brenda Vongova, the UN Chamber Music Society is dedicated to promoting the United Nations' goals and values at large - through the universal language of music.

Watch the UN Chamber Music Society: Virtual Performance in Celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day!

The Nelson Mandela Moot Court Competition is an annual event in which students from around the world come together in Geneva to argue a hypothetical human rights case. The Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition is the only global moot court competition explicitly dedicated to human rights. It is co-organised by the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, the Academy on Human Rights, Washington College of Law, American University, and the United Nations Human Rights Council Branch (HRCB), at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Watch the 17th Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition!

International Criminal Justice Day 2025; July 17th.

FORUM: “Building a more just World.” International Criminal Justice Day 2025. 17 July is the Day of International Criminal Justice. It marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute on 17 July 1998, the founding treaty of the ICC, which seeks to protect people from genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression. It’s an occasion to unite all those who wish to support justice, promote victims' rights, and help prevent crimes that threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world. This year, we underscore the urgent need for coordinated, principled action to uphold the international justice system and ensure that all survivors of atrocity crimes can access their right to truth, justice, and reparation. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Romestatute, #MoreJustWorld, #JusticeMatters, #17july, #criminaljustice, #SDG16, #Internationalcriminaljusticeday.

EVENTS: Marking the 27th anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute.

On July 17th at The Hague, during the International Criminal Justice Day 2025; The ICC will celebrate the Twenty-Seventh Anniversary of the Adoption of the Rome Statute. The organizers calls on States and international actors to reaffirm their commitment to inclusive, survivor-centered justice. In the face of mounting political pressure, systemic inequality, and selective accountability, we stand with survivors and civil society actors who continue to lead the charge against impunity—often at great personal risk.
On July 17th; At the United Nations Headquarters in New York from 15:00 to 16:30 will be held the Commemoration of the Day of International Criminal Justice; The President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, Ms. Päivi Kaukoranta (Finland) invite you to participate to the celebration at in the Ecosoc Chamber. The Opening remarks will be made by the moderator: Ms. Päivi Kaukoranta, President, Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute; The Panel members are: Judge Tomoko Akane, President, International Criminal Court; Judge Rosario Salvatore Aitala, First Vice-President, International Criminal Court; H.E. Mr. Michael Imran Kanu, Vice-President, Assembly of States Parties; Mr. Pablo de Greiff, Former United Nations Special Rapporteur on truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence. The panel discussion will be followed by question & answer segment. Requests for inscription on the list of speakers for States and other stakeholders wishing to pose a question should be mad via email at: asp@icc-cpi.int specifying the name and title of the speaker. Participants will be inscribed on the speakers list on a first come, first served basis with States Parties being given priority. Participants are kindly requested to keep their questions to a maximum of three minutes. Register to participate!

STATEMENTS: Read the Joint Statement of the Global Initiative Against Impunity on the Day of International Criminal Justice 2025. and the Joint Statement of the Mechanism Principals’ on the Day of International Criminal Justice 2025.

TAKE ACTION: Reflect on what you can do in your family, community or career to help build a more peaceful, more just world. Get involved in Building a more just world!

Get inspired | Work for justice | Thank a teacher | Talk to kids | Learn about the crimes | Learn about the process | Explore exhibits | Share facts | Donate | More actions for | 6 things States can do.

World Youth Skills Day 2025; July 15th.

FORUM: “Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills.“ World Youth Skills Day 2025. The theme for WYSD 2025 focuses on Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills. As the Fourth Industrial Revolution reshapes economies through Artificial Intelligence (AI), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) must evolve to equip youth with future-ready skills. AI is transforming how we live, learn and work — but it also poses serious risks if not implemented equitably. This matters because AI is rapidly changing TVET by : Personalizing learning through intelligent tutoring systems. By Supporting immersive training using virtual reality (VR). By Streamlining certification and career guidance. Modernizing curricula and aligning training with labour market needs. But without systemic reform, the digital divide will grow, especially for marginalized youth. While AI brings opportunities, it also presents major challenges in TVET;AI systems can reinforce gender and geographic disparities; Many teachers lack confidence in using AI tools; Most TVET institutions lack the capacity to adopt advanced AI tools; Many regions lack funding to scale up AI-driven learning; AI’s reliance on data and lack of transparency raises critical questions; AI can amplify hate speech, fake news and cyber threats if not well governed; Women and marginalized groups remain significantly underrepresented in AI fields; Over-reliance on AI risks undermining essential human elements like mentorship and teamwork. We invite governments, educators, youth, policy-makers and tech developers to come together to Advocate for ethical, inclusive and human-centered AI in TVET; To Collaborate globally to share best practices and fund digital skills training; To Support grassroots innovations that increase youth employability; To Amplify youth voices in decision-making about the future of work. Be part of shaping an inclusive, ethical and empowering future for all youth through AI and digital skills. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #15July, #WYSD, #WorldYouthSkillsDay.

EVENTS: This July 15th marks a dual milestone: the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) and the 5th anniversary of the Global Skills Academy (GSA).

At UNHQ; On July 15th; from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM ET(14:30 pm - 16.30 pm EST, Paris time) to observe the World Youth Skills Day 2025, a hIgh level event entitled “Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills.’’ organized by the Permanent Mission of Portugal and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations New York, in collaboration with UNESCO-UNEVOC, the International Labour Organization, the Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth, with Member States, young experts, social partners, teachers and educators, and other stakeholders, will be held. This event will bring also together students, governments, United Nations agencies, the private sector, and civil society representatives, to emphasize the urgent need to integrate digital and AI skills into learning systems, to empower young people to bridge digital divides, access emerging labour market opportunities and to build inclusive, sustainable, peaceful and resilient societies. More details on the event Register to participate and Watch the livestream!

From UNESCO; On July 15th, from 9:30-15:50 CEST (Paris time) A High-level panel discussions with UN officials, policy-makers, educators and youth leaders will be held at the Learning Planet Institute in Paris; The Hybrid event will be interpreted to French. Read the Provisional concept note, the Participant's logistic note. Get the Agenda. Register to participate online!

ACTIVITIES: This two-part intensive bootcamp is designed to equip young people with the essential skills needed to thrive in an automated world. It features a comprehensive curriculum and immersive experiences that build digital literacy, technical expertise, and soft skills. Up to 500 graduates and learners will participate in 10 self-paced modules—delivered six weeks ahead of the celebration—that cover a broad range of skills. Learn more about The 10 skills for the future of work.

Skills in Action Photo Competition 2025.

The Skills in Action Photo Competition 2025 will be held. If you are an amateur or professional photographer with an interest in youth skills? Don’t miss your chance to enter the UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition. You are eligible to participate as long as: you are at least 18 years old and you are the owner or copyright holder of the photo entry/entries. Click to learn more!

PUBLICATION: The youth survey report will be available after the results presentation during the live event on July 15th to explain how young people are navigating both the opportunities and challenges of the digital era. While 62% of youth are already using AI in real-world contexts. Read more.

STATEMENTS: Read the statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on World Youth Skills Day 2025; July 15th.

On this World Youth Skills Day, we recognize that skills not just tools – they are engines of empowerment and opportunity.

From traditional knowledge to creative arts to community leadership, a diverse range of skills enable young people to shape their futures and build more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies.

This year’s theme rightly highlights the growing importance of digital and AI skills.

From basic digital literacy to advanced data science, these capabilities are ever more vital for young people to thrive in today’s world – and lead in tomorrow’s.

But opportunity must be universal. We must close the digital divide – so that every young person – regardless of gender, geography, or background – can reach their full potential.

Digital education must be human-centered, nurturing not only technical ability, but also creativity, critical thinking, and compassion.

And as AI reshapes our world, young people must be seen not just as learners – but as co-creators of a fairer digital future.

Let’s do our part to equip every young person with the skills for the digital age.

António Guterres

LIVESTREAM: 2025 WYSD High-level Panel Discussion entitled ''Empowering Youth to be Agents of Change through Digital and AI Skills''.

International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms 2025; July 12th.

FORUM: "Sand and Dust Storms: Working Across Agendas for Resilience and Sustainability." International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms 2025. Sand and dust storms (SDS) are an increasingly global issue affecting 151 countries worldwide with numerous impacts on the environment, food security, agriculture, health, transportation, energy, human–societies and economies. Sand and dust storms are an essential element of the Earth’s natural bio-chemical cycles, but are also caused in part by human-induced drivers, including climate change, and unsustainable land management and water use. In turn, sand and dust storms contribute to climate change and air pollution. Sand and dust storms’ impacts are felt in all regions of the world, both in developed and developing countries, and pose severe challenges to achieving 11 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, especially: SDG-2 : Zero hunger — SDG-3 : Health for all — SDG-6 : Water and sanitation — SDG-8 : Economic growth — SDG-11 : Sustainable Cities and societies — SDG-13 : Climate action, and — SDG-15 : Biodiversity forests and desertification. This call to action represents a significant step in enhancing awareness of SDS and mobilizing the political will and resources needed to address the SDS related issues which present a serious challenge to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and associated targets. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #12july, #sandstorms, #duststorms.

EVENTS: On July 12th, a High level Panel Discussions and several events were organized around the world.

On July 10th at 10: 30 am EST, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) will released its annual airborne dust bulletin, highlighting the global impact of sand and dust storms. The bulletin discusses the hotspots, hazards, and WMO's efforts to combat these storms. It emphasizes the connection between dust storms, climate change, and various socio-economic sectors, including agriculture, solar energy production, and health. Watch the WMO - Press Conference: Sand and Dust Bulletin 2025.

On July 10th; At the UNHQ; starting at 16:00 pm EST; The 3rd edition will be, co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Iraq, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Senegal at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, featured various speakers from organizations collaborating in the United Nations SDS Coalition. A high-level meeting with an opening and plenary segment will be held to bring together Member States and Observers at the highest level possible to discuss the challenges faced by affected countries and to promote practical, coordinated actions at both regional and global levels. It will also be an opportunity to discuss action-oriented recommendations and address the challenges faced by countries affected by sand and dust storms. Read the concept note and watch the livestream!

STATEMENTS: Letter from the President of the General Assembly on the High-level meeting on sand and dust storms.

International Day of Hope 2025; July 12th.

FORUM: “Fostering Peace, Prosperity, and Sustainable Development Through the Power of Hope.” International Day of Hope 2025. Hope plays a vital role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); In relation with he SDG 3: Health – Hope improves mental well-being and supports treatment engagement. In relation with the SDG 4: Education – Hope enhances student motivation and academic outcomes. In relation with the SDG 8: Economic Inclusion – Hope drives ambition, savings, and entrepreneurship. In relation with the SDG 13: Climate Action – Hope sustains long-term commitment to environmental efforts. Development programs that integrate hope-building strategies—such as coaching and mentoring—yield improved results for people living in poverty. This annual commemoration will serve as a reminder that humanity can overcome adversity together, reignite hope, and illuminate the path toward sustainable peace and harmony. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #12July, #InternationalDayofHope, #Hope, #ThepowerofHope.

EVENT: On July 11th, the first International Day of Hope at the United Nations Headquarters following its adoption carries significance. The meeting will focus on effective implementation and inspiring more like-minded individuals toward hope for existence and harmony with others. Our goal is to create awareness about the International Day of Hope, establish a collaborative platform for governments and non-governmental organizations to exchange ideas and share diverse perspectives on humanity and "Hope". Strengthening the power of "Hope" through this meeting will contribute to transforming the world, paving the way for a sustainable future for all. It will further provide insight into fostering peace, prosperity, and sustainable development through "Power of Hope" for a failing system. Leaders will share their experiences, insights, and visions to promote the spirit of cooperation in building Hope as well as strategies that will help restore Hope in a failing generation. We believe that by the end of this meeting, the value and significance of promoting the power of hope will be intensified, encouraging people around the world to confront the global crisis we face today with Hope that inspires action and unites love and conscience to overcome challenges and realize our shared goals. Explore the Concept note, Register to participate and Watch the 2025 Celebration of the 1st International Day of Hope!

International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica 2025; July 11th.

FORUM: #UpholdLessons of Srebrenica, Preserve #HistoricalTruth, Protect #HumanDignity. 2025 will mark the thirtieth anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica. The genocide left deep emotional scars on the survivors, families of victims, and the Bosnian and Herzegovinian society in general, creating enduring obstacles to reconciliation among the country’s different ethnic groups. The Assembly also asked the Secretary-General to establish an outreach programme on the Srebrenica genocide in preparation for the 30th anniversary. It further condemned any denial of the Srebrenica genocide as a historical event and called on Member States to preserve the established facts, including through their educational systems, towards preventing denial and distortion, and any occurrence of genocide in the future.

COMMEMORATIVE EVENT: Co-organized by the United Nations Department of Global Communications, the Office of the Special Advisor for the Prevention of Genocide and the Permanent Mission of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations. The 2025 observance of the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica is being held on Tuesday, 8 July 2025 at 11:00 a.m. EDT in the General Assembly Hall, United Nations Headquarters, New York. The observance marks the 30-year anniversary of the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica. The UN Secretary-General remarks will be delivered by the Chef de Cabinet.

STATEMENTS: Read the statement of the United Nations Secretary-General.

Today marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War.

In July 1995, more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically murdered. Thousands of women, children, and older persons were forcibly displaced, their lives forever shattered. The intention was the elimination of Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica.

We remember the victims and honour the courage of the survivors – including the Mothers of Srebrenica, whose tireless pursuit of justice ensured that the genocide was recognized in both law and history.

This day is not only a moment of reflection. It is a call to vigilance and action.

At a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice. We must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold. We must respect international law, defend human rights, uphold the dignity of every individual, and invest in reconciliation and peace.

Let the memory of Srebrenica strengthen our resolve, so that “never again” truly means never again.

António Guterres; United Nations Secretary-General.

Remarks of the United Nations General Assembly president during the high-level commemorative ceremony to mark the 2025 International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.

LIVESTREAM: High-level Events to mark the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.
The observance marks the 30-year anniversary of the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica.

EXHIBITION: From Words to Violence: Lives Behind the Fields of Death. From 17 June to 18 July 2 025 at the Visitors’ Lobby, UN Headquarters in New York.

The exhibition provides a glimpse into the horrors of the genocide against Bosnian Muslims committed in Srebrenica in July 1995. Through photographs of items from everyday life, the story unravels - of lives lived and lost, and families torn apart. It shows the consequence of hate speech and inaction in the face of hatred.

The exhibit is organized by the Memorial Center Srebrenica-Potočari Memorial and Cemetery for the Victims of 1995 Genocide; and the Permanent Mission of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the UN and endorsed by the Office of the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide; and the UN Department for Global Communications.

The exhibition is free and open to the public. No registration is required. Please visit UN Exhibits for visitor instructions.

World Population Day 2025; July 11th.

FORUM: ".Empowering Youth to Build the Families They Want." World Population Day 2025. Global fertility rates are falling, prompting warnings about “population collapse.” But the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)’s State of World Population report shows the real issue is a lack of reproductive agency—many people, especially youth, are unable to have the children they want. The observance this year, will highlight this challenge, focusing on the largest-ever generation of young people. The theme calls for ensuring youth have the rights, tools, and opportunities to shape their futures. Young people are already driving change, but face major obstacles: economic insecurity, gender inequality, limited healthcare and education, climate disruption, and conflict. A UNFPA–YouGov survey of over 14,000 people in 14 countries found most wanted more children but were prevented by social, economic, or health barriers. To respond to global population trends effectively, leaders must prioritize young people’s needs and voices. They need more than services—they need hope, stability, and a future worth planning for. As one youth activist told UNFPA, “Young people are not just thinking about their future children—they are thinking about the world those children will inherit.” Supporting their rights is key to sustainable development, peace, and human dignity. The UNFPA’s flagship State of World Population report showcases global population data, including fertility rate, gender parity in school enrolment, information on sexual and reproductive health, and much more. Together, these data shine a light on the health and rights of people around the world, especially women and young people. This World Population Day reminds us that reproductive freedom is not about the ability to have children, but to build a world where every young person has the power to decide for themselves, when, with whom and how many children they will have. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #WorldPopulationDay; #11july, #sustainablefuture, #programmeofaction, #population, #LeaveNoOneBehind, #CountEveryone #megatrends, #icpd30.

EVENTS: On July 11th; the high-level event to mark World Population Day 2025 under the theme “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world,” , the UNFPA and the Specialized agencies will highlight the need or reliable data collection and analysis tools. This World Population Day is a moment to ask who is still going uncounted and why – and what this costs individuals, societies and our global efforts to leave no one behind. It is also a moment for all of us to commit to doing more to ensure that our data systems capture the full range of human diversity so that everyone is seen, can exercise their human rights and can reach their full potential which will help achieve progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.“ During the celebration, we will reflect not just on numbers– but on lives, futures, and the shared responsibility we all hold in shaping a sustainable world. UNFPA emphasizes that supporting young people to realize their reproductive potential is not only a matter of health, but also a matter of sustainable development. Ensuring access to comprehensive sexual education, youth-friendly health services, employment opportunities, and inclusive decision-making processes are all essential steps towards creating a better future for young people. Read the concept note and register to participate!

PUBLICATIONS: Read the UNDESA World Population Prospects and the UNFPA 2025 State of World Population report entitled ‘The Real Fertility Crisis” - In 2025, falling fertility rates are making global headlines, with some governments warning of a “population collapse” and introducing drastic policies to boost births. But at the same time, millions of people still can’t have the number of children they actually want. According to UNFPA’s latest State of World Population report, the real crisis isn’t about population numbers. It’s about people losing the ability to make their own choices. It’s a crisis of reproductive freedom.

LIVESTREAM: Launch of the UNFPA 2025 State of World Population Report.

STATEMENTS: Read the statement from the United Nations Secretary-General on World Population Day 2025

On this World Population Day, we celebrate the potential and promise of the largest youth generation ever.

They are not only shaping our future; they are demanding one that is just, inclusive, and sustainable.

The theme -- "Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world” – reaffirms the promise of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development: that every person has the right to make informed choices about their lives and futures.

Many young people today face economic uncertainty, gender inequality, health challenges, the climate crisis and conflict.

Still, they are leading – with courage, conscience and clarity. And they are calling for systems that uphold their rights and support their choices.

I urge countries to invest in policies that ensure education, healthcare, decent work, and the full protection of their reproductive rights.

Let us stand with young people and build a future where every person can shape their destiny in a world that is fair, peaceful and full of hope.

António Guterres; United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement by UNFPA Executive Director on World Population Day 2025; July 11th.

Our human population is the subject of growing interest – and intensifying anxiety. The concerns that draw most attention are declining fertility rates, ageing and workforce shortages, while many still argue that the greatest threat to the planet is overpopulation. The real fertility crisis, however, is lack of reproductive agency. Young people are too often unable to create the families they want, while at the same time being blamed for low fertility rates and saddled with the expectation of resolving them.

It is often assumed or implied that fertility rates are the result of free choice. Unfortunately, that is not the whole picture. Financial stress, health concerns, backlash against women’s rights, global conflicts and concerns about climate change are among the many reasons why young men and women today are not having the number of children they would like, according to UNFPA’s recent State of World Population report. UNFPA surveyed 14,000 people around the world and found that 1 in 5 people under age 50 expect to end up with a family size different from their ideal – and most of them expect they will have fewer children than desired. Of those over age 50, almost a third of respondents said they’d had fewer children than they wanted.

Misguided assumptions – for example, that young people are prioritizing careers over children, or that “selfishness” is leading them off the path to parenthood – can influence policy decisions that often worsen issues they are intended to solve. We see this, for instance, when countries restrict the availability of contraceptives, leading to more unintended pregnancies.

Starting on this World Population Day, let’s listen to what young people want and need and create conditions that enable them to exercise their rights, make their own choices and enjoy a hopeful future.

As one youth activist from Lebanon told UNFPA, “Young people are not just thinking about their future children – they are thinking about the world those children will inherit.”

Secure jobs and sufficient income for housing and other living costs would help young people feel financially stable and broaden their choices about when and whether to have children. Family-friendly policies – including affordable and accessible childcare, generous and flexible parental leave, and promotion of fathers’ participation in care-giving – can help prospective parents balance career and family goals. Investing in comprehensive sexuality education is another imperative that supports informed choices.

Intergenerational understanding is crucial to build trust and strengthen solidarity and fairness across generations. Only shared solutions, grounded in human rights, will meet the demands of a demographically diverse world.

Ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health and rights is a cornerstone for sustainable, inclusive societies. Let’s create the circumstances where people who deeply want to experience the joys and rewards of parenting can meet their fertility goals, where they have hope for a better tomorrow that is supportive of their choices and protective of their rights, one where they and their children will thrive.

UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem.

Press Statement of the UNFPA Pacific Sub-Regional Office on World Population Day 2025; July 11th.

On World Population Day, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Pacific calls for a renewed commitment to empowering young people to shape their reproductive futures, highlighting the critical findings of the recently launched 2025 State of World Population Report, titled "The Real Fertility Crisis: The pursuit of reproductive agency in a changing world."

This year's World Population Day theme, "Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world," resonates deeply with the realities faced by millions of young people and women across the Pacific and globally. The 2025 State of World Population Report debunks the simplistic narrative of a "population collapse" and instead reveals a more profound issue: a widespread crisis of reproductive agency, where individuals are unable to have the number of children they desire, whether more, fewer, or none at all.

"The Pacific Islands Countries and Territories (PICTs), with its significant youth bulge – more than half of its estimated 2.7 million population in 2025 is under 25 years –stand at a pivotal moment," stated Ms. Bidisha Pillai, UNFPA Director for the Pacific Island Countries and Representative in Fiji. "While some PICTs experience population growth, others face declines. Regardless of the demographic trend, the core challenge is ensuring that every young person has the information, resources, skills, and freedom to make informed choices about their bodies, their futures, and their families."

This World Population Day, UNFPA Pacific is partnering with the University of the South Pacific (USP) for a panel discussion to shift the conversation from overpopulation to reproductive justice. An ongoing challenge that needs to be addressed; not how many children people are having, but whether they have the freedom to decide for themselves. The panel will bring together technical experts, academics, policymakers, development partners, civil society, students and young people.

“On World Population Day, we reflect not just on numbers– but on lives, futures, and the shared responsibility we all hold in shaping a sustainable world,” said Keshmeer Makun, Lecturer at USP .

The 2025 State of the World Population Report indicates a global adolescent birth rate of 38 births per 1,000 girls aged 15–19, with the Asia and Pacific region recording 24. However, some Pacific Island nations exhibit adolescent birth rates significantly higher than both the global and regional averages. Notable examples include Vanuatu (81), Samoa (55), Kiribati (51), and the Solomon Islands (49), suggesting that adolescent girls in these countries are getting pregnant before they are fully equipped to decide if, when, or how many children they want to have. This means that many girls and women in the Pacific still cannot make the reproductive choices they want. Enabling adolescent girls and young women to have the knowledge and life skills to exercise their reproductive rights is crucial to tackle poverty, violence against women and girls, and inequality.

UNFPA emphasizes that supporting young people to realize their reproductive potential is not only a matter of health, but also a matter of sustainable development . Ensuring access to comprehensive sexual education, youth-friendly health services, employment opportunities, and inclusive decision-making processes are all essential steps towards creating a better future for young people.

“UNFPA urges governments and stakeholders to empower young people to make reproductive decisions freely, including by investing in quality education, employment opportunities, and the full range of reproductive health services and reliable information. UNFPA also calls on societies to address all the ways that gender inequality undermines people’s family choices,” added Ms. Pillai.

This World Population Day reminds us that reproductive freedom is not about the ability to have children, but to build a world where every young person has the power to decide for themselves, when, with whom and how many children they will have.

Tairah Firdous; Communication Specialist, UNFPA Pacific Sub-Regional Office.

CEREMONY : 2025 United Nations Population Awards Ceremony.

The aim of the UN Population Award Ceremony is to celebrate the achievements of laureates and their contributions to the development and/or implementation of solutions to issues and questions related to population and development.

The United Nations General Assembly established the United Nations Population Award in resolution 36/201 on 17 December 1981. The Award is presented annually to an individual or individuals, or to an institution or institutions, or to any combination thereof, for the most outstanding contribution to the awareness of population questions or to their solutions.

Each year, the Committee for the United Nations Population Award honours an individual and/or institution in recognition of outstanding contributions to population and reproductive health questions and to their solutions. The Award was established by the General Assembly in 1981, in resolution 36/201, and was first presented in 1983. It consists of a gold medal, a diploma and a monetary prize. The Committee for the United Nations Population Award is comprised of 10 UN Member States, with United Nations Secretary-General and UNFPA Executive Director serving as ex-officio members. Nominations for the award are accepted through 31 December of each year.View less
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