International Day of Cooperatives 2025; July 5th.

FORUM: "Cooperatives: Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better." International Day of Cooperatives 2025. Cooperatives operate in every sector of the economy worldwide—agriculture, finance, housing, health and care, education, energy, retail, industry and services —and have consistently demonstrated their ability to advance social justice, economic democracy, and ecological sustainability while offering efficient, innovative and inclusive solutions to community needs.

Today the global cooperative movement will be celebrating the International Day of Cooperatives (CoopsDay) by highlighting what can be achieved through the power of cooperation. Themed “Driving inclusive and sustainable solutions for a better world”, CoopsDay is an opportunity to raise awareness about cooperatives’ role in delivering evidence-based, people-centred solutions. This year’s CoopsDay is a special celebration due to 2025 being the second United Nations International Year of Cooperatives. Cooperatives are active in every sector of the economy, including agriculture, finance, retail, housing, healthcare, education, energy, industry and services. They employ 10% of the world’s population, providing decent employment and advancing social justice, economic democracy, and ecological sustainability. Their track record of promoting the economic and social development of all people, including marginalised groups, was recognised in the 2023 UN Secretary-General Report on Cooperatives in Social Development. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #coops4sdgs, #CoopsDay, #6july, #Sustainability, #Cooperatives.

EVENTS: In his message at the occasion of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 launch, the Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted how “cooperatives are driving development across communities large and small, fighting poverty and social inclusion, strengthening food security, helping local entrepreneurs across international markets. Your united efforts are essential as our world confronts complex challenges and strives to achieve the sustainable development goals”.

ICA President Ariel Guarco says the day is one of the most important moments since the global movement began celebrating the International Day of Cooperatives over a century ago.

“Now is the time to strengthen that impact and expand the reach of our actions—actions rooted in the principles and values that unite us and guide our daily work toward the common good. Thanks to this identity, we remain strong around the world. And at the same time, we’re able to express cooperative principles in every region, culture, and country, adapting our values to each community's development strategy. In this way, we offer local solutions to global challenges—and we can truly live out our motto: that cooperatives build a better world,” he added.

The day also falls during the Festival of Co-operatives, which is currently being held in Manchester and Rochdale, UK, to celebrate the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives and the 130th anniversary of the ICA. The event, which includes the ICA General Assembly and the UK's national Co-op Congress, features a range of activities, including visits to FC United of Manchester, Hulme Community Garden Centre, Unicorn Grocery cooperative and the Rochdale Pioneers Museum, in the birthplace of the modern-day cooperative movement. The festival is hosted by The Co-operative Group and Co-operatives UK.

 The Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC) is pleased to announce the official theme for the 2025 International Day of Cooperatives (CoopsDay): “Cooperatives: Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World.”. To be celebrated on Saturday, 5 July 2025, this year’s CoopsDay will serve as a flagship moment within the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025)—a once-in-a-decade opportunity to spotlight the critical role of cooperatives in building more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities. As the world confronts intensifying economic and climate-related crises, persistent inequality, and fragile social protection systems, the 2025 CoopsDay theme calls attention to the powerful role of cooperatives in delivering evidence-based, people-centered solutions.

CoopsDay 2025 aligns with two major global policy processes:

The United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), which will review progress on SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 14 (Life Below Water), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals; and The Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2), which will focus on social inclusion, poverty eradication, and sustainable development.

In 2025, the celebration marks The 103rd International Cooperative Day, and The 31st UN International Day of Cooperatives. The theme is selected jointly by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) and COPAC, in consultation with UN partners and the cooperative movement.


For media inquiries, interviews, or contributions to CoopsDay 2025:
📧 Email: copac@copac.coop
🌐 Website: About CoopsDay 2025

Message from the ICA President Ariel Guarco for the 103rd International Day of Cooperatives.

Dear cooperative friends,

This is not just another day. On July 5, we will celebrate our Day in the International Year of Cooperatives.

I believe this is one of the most important moments since we first began celebrating the International Day of Cooperatives over a century ago.

We are gaining greater prominence on the global stage, as reflected in the recognition from the United Nations and other international organizations of our cooperative socio-business model.

That’s why we also have the responsibility to turn this global recognition into concrete, sustainable, and inclusive solutions in every place where we are present.

Surely, this is already happening in every community where there is a cooperative.

Now is the time to strengthen that impact and expand the reach of our actions—actions rooted in the principles and values that unite us and guide our daily work toward the common good.

Thanks to this identity, we remain strong around the world. And at the same time, we’re able to express cooperative principles in every geography, culture, and country, adapting our values to each community's development strategy.

In this way, we offer local solutions to global challenges—and we can truly live out our motto: that cooperatives build a better world.

We’re not doing it alone. We invite others—economic, social, political actors from both the public and private sectors—to join us in building a future that is prosperous, inclusive, and peaceful.

That’s why, this July 5, we open the doors of our cooperatives and celebrate together with our members, neighbors, and communities.

Together, we proudly say: Happy International Day of Cooperatives!

Let’s keep building inclusive and sustainable solutions for a better world!

Watch the full video here.

OTHER STATEMENTS: 

“This year’s theme speaks to both the identity and urgency of the cooperative model. In a time of global uncertainty, cooperatives are proving that development can be democratic, inclusive, and grounded in solidarity. CoopsDay 2025, celebrated during the International Year of Cooperatives, is a powerful opportunity to amplify that message to the world." (Wenyan Yang, COPAC Chair)

"Across the globe, cooperatives are demonstrating that a values-driven enterprise approach can deliver real and lasting solutions. International Day of Cooperatives 2025 is a moment to recognize this collective strength and reaffirm our dedication to an inclusive and sustainable path forward.” (Jeroen Douglas, Director General of the International Cooperative Alliance)

Get Involved!

As part of IYC2025, CoopsDay offers a platform for cooperatives to increase visibility, forge partnerships, and engage new audiences. A refreshed CoopsDay logo—aligned with the IYC visual identity—has been released for use in promotional materials.

Cooperatives and partners are encouraged to:

Visit the updated CoopsDay website:About CoopsDay 2025
Utilize the updated CoopsDay logo and Media Kit logo: International Day of Cooperatives 2025

Submit or view events on the IYC events platform:Events Portal – Events Portal

Share your cooperative story: Home.

About the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025

On 19 June 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives. The text recommends ways to celebrate and encourages all Member States, the United Nations, and relevant stakeholders to leverage this event to promote cooperatives’ contribution to social and economic development. Among others, Member States are also invited to consider establishing national committees to coordinate and prepare for all IYC 2025 activities.

About the International Day of Cooperatives

The International Day of Cooperatives has been celebrated globally by the International Cooperative Alliance since 1923 and was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1995. It is held every year on the first Saturday of July to increase awareness of cooperatives’ contributions to development and peace.

About The COPAC

The Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives (COPAC) is a multi-stakeholder partnership that promotes and supports people-centered and self-sustaining cooperative enterprises as key actors in sustainable development.

COPAC’s membership includes the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD), and the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA).

Together, COPAC works to ensure cooperatives are recognized in global policy processes and supported through enabling environments—particularly in advancing decent work, inclusive economies, gender equality, sustainable food systems, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2025; June 21st.

FORUM: "The solstice as the embodiment of the unity of cultural heritage and centuries-long traditions." International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2025. The Solstices play a significant role in strengthening the ties among peoples on the basis of mutual respect and the ideals of peace and good-neighborliness. All the United Nations, in particular its relevant specialized agencies, funds and programmes, mainly the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and interested international and regional organizations, within existing resources, and non-governmental organizations to participate in events organized by Member States, indigenous peoples and communities in which the solstice is celebrated and to raise awareness in this regard. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #summersolstice, #wintersolstice, #20june, #21june, #solstices, #Internationaldayofthecelebrationofthesolstice.

EVENTS: The International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2025 and the Northern Hemisphere's summer solstice fall on June 20th at 10:42 p.m CET. South of the Equator, this same moment marks the unofficial beginning of winter. Solstices occur at the same time around the world, but their local times vary with time zones. The Earth's 23.5-degree tilt is responsible for the changing seasons. The upcoming summer solstice, occurring June 20th. Join the Celebration of the summer and winter Solstices in the both hemispheres.

Watch the Winter Solstice in Sydney, In Australia, that mid-winter day is known as the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. This year, it is on Friday, June 21st.The tilt of the earth's axis will mean the southern hemisphere will be angled furthest away from the sun at: 12:42pm AEST (Queensland, NSW, ACT, Victoria and Tasmania).

On June 20th and June 21st; Watch the summer solstice LIVE from Stonehenge, wherever you are in the world. Watch the sunset over the Stone Circle ahead of the longest day of the year. Watch the sun set over the Stone Circle as people celebrate the days beginning to lengthen. Our stream begins at 20:30 BST (this is 15:30 EDT/EST), with sunset occurring at 21:26 BST on thursday.

International Day of Yoga 2025; June 21st.

FORUM: "Yoga for One earth, One Health." International Day of Yoga 2025. Yoga as a transformative practice, represents the harmony of mind and body, the balance between thought and action, and the unity of restraint and fulfillment. It integrates the body, mind, spirit, and soul, offering a holistic approach to health and well-being that brings peace to our hectic lives. Its power to transform is what we celebrate on this special day. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #Yoga, #21June, #Yoga4theword, #onefamily #YogaDay

EVENTS: On June 20th at the North Lawn Area of the UNHQ, the Permanent Mission of India to the UN in collaboration with the UN Secretariat is organizing the 11th International Day of Yoga.This global celebration fosters unity and harmony, transcends borders and cultures, and brings us closer to a world of peace and well-being. In 2023, the International Day of Yoga celebration at the United Nations Headquarters created a Guinness World Record for the participation of yoga enthusiasts of most nationalities. In keeping with this spirit. To participate to the International Day of Yoga 2025 observance Register to participate or Watch the livestream!

In India, Internationally renowned as the ‘go-to’ place for learning yoga, the main IDY2025 event is set to be a huge exercise, if you want to participate explore the calendar.

STATEMENTS: Read the Statement by the U.N. Secretary-General on International Day of Yoga 2025; June 21st and the PM Modi's message on 11th International Yoga Day.

World Refugee Day 2025; June 20th.

FORUM: "Solidarity with Refugees." World Refugee Day 2025. Solidarity means honouring refugees not just with words but with actions. It means listening to them and making space for their stories. It means defending their right to seek safety and finding solutions to their plight, ending conflicts so they can return home in safety. It means ensuring they have opportunities to thrive in the communities that have welcomed them and providing countries with the resources they need to include and support refugees. But above all, solidarity means saying, clearly and courageously, that refugees are not alone and that we will not turn our backs. At a moment of global uncertainty, of narratives that prioritize self-interest over shared humanity, with the number of forcibly displaced people at a record high and brutal aid funding cuts putting millions of lives at risk, it is more urgent than ever to break through the noise, raise our voice and show solidarity with refugees. This World Refugee Day, solidarity means honouring refugees not just with words but with actions. It means listening deeply, making space for their stories. It means standing up for their right to seek safety and for solutions to their plight. But above all solidarity means saying, clearly and courageously, that refugees are not alone and that we will not turn our back. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #20june, #solidaritywithrefugees, #campaign, #worldrefugeeday.

KEY MESSAGES:

True solidarity with refugees begins with actions. Welcoming a refugee into your community or advocating for policies that protect and support people forced to flee. Sharing refugee stories with your community, friend sand family or offering your time for them or providing them a job to help them rebuild their lives. Every gesture counts, no matter how small. Refugees are not looking for charity; they seek opportunity and self-advancement. When given the chance, they become integral, valuable and productive members of the communities that welcome them. Every act of welcome, inclusion, and support brings us closer to a world where every person forced to flee can find not just refuge, but belonging, purpose, and hope.

Solidarity Means Centering Refugee Voices: Every refugee carries a unique story — of pain, loss, and unimaginable strength. They are not defined by what they’ve lost, but by the courage with which they rebuild. Refugees have the same dreams, talents and passions as anyone else but have faced unique obstacles in their journey. They do not want to be defined solely by their experience of displacement or as victims. Their identities are complex and multifaceted. We mark World Refugee Day by sharing their stories of strength, and courage, of community, and of hope, reflecting on how each of us can show up for refugees.

Solidarity Means Building Community: Becoming a refugee is not a choice. But how we act and respond, is. We can create communities that are generous and hospitable, where everyone belongs. Refugees want self-reliance, to forge friendships with their neighbours and to take care of their families. They are often highly skilled and bring fresh ideas that foster innovation and creativity, benefiting all. Communities that welcome refugees thrive. Our message is: “We see you. You are not forgotten. You are not alone.”

Solidarity Means Working Together for Peace and Solutions: The world is facing a shortage of peace. Conflicts are multiplying with wars dragging on and with civilians paying the highest price. Crossing a border is often the hardest choice but the only one left to survive. Countries need to uphold their obligations to provide sanctuary and life-saving protection to refugees. But it cannot end there. We need peace, so nobody feels forced to flee. But in the absence of peace, refugees need opportunities to be active members of the communities that have welcomed them, whether through work, school, sports or other civic activities. For as long as they remain in exile, refugees should be able to use their talents and passions to provide for their families and contribute to the countries hosting them. Low- and middle-income countries where the majority of refugees are received require greater investment so refugees can live in dignity and thrive while hosts also benefit.

Solidarity Means We Stay and Deliver: UNHCR’s mandate is more relevant than ever. We have been called upon since our inception to serve and protect people forced to flee. Our role remains critical not just in saving lives but in stabilising communities and countries. Helping the displaced where they are enables peace and social stability. We continue to work in some of the world’s most difficult environments where war and violence have left millions of people vulnerable. While the dire funding situation is impacting our work and putting the lives of many at risk, we remain committed to fulfilling our mandate. This World Refugee Day, we also stand with our colleagues and our humanitarian partners around the world, who stay and deliver, who refuse to walk away, no matter the Challenges.

EVENTS: On June 20th; The observance of World Refugee Day 2025 will be a moment to show solidarity with refugees, honoring their stories andshowing unwavering support to their plight. Read the concept Note and Register to participate!

STATEMENTS: Read the statement of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the World Refugee Day 2025; June 20th.

 "Today, we recognize the millions of refugees forced to flee war, persecution, and disaster. Every individual carries a story of profound loss – of a family uprooted and a future upended. Many face closed doors and a rising tide of xenophobia. From Sudan to Ukraine, from Haiti to Myanmar, a record number of people are on the run for their lives – while support is dwindling. And host communities, often in developing countries, are shouldering the greatest burden. This is unfair and unsustainable. But even as the world falls short, refugees continue to show extraordinary courage, resilience and determination. And when given the chance, they contribute meaningfully – strengthening economies, enriching cultures, and deepening social bonds. On this World Refugee Day, solidarity must go beyond words. Solidarity must mean boosting humanitarian and development support, expanding protection and durable solutions such as resettlement, and upholding the right to seek asylum – a pillar of international law. It must also mean listening to refugees and ensuring they have a voice in shaping their futures. And it must mean investing in long-term integration through education, decent work, and equal rights. Becoming a refugee is never a choice. But how we respond is. So let us choose solidarity. Let us choose courage. Let us choose humanity."

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

“The cost of inaction will be measured insuffering, instability and lost futures.”
Filippo Grandi, UNHCR Director-General on World Refugee Day 2025; June 20th.

“When humanitarian aid disappears, people forced to flee suffer most. Support is vanishing, yet UNHCR staff and partnersdon’t walk away. World Refugee Day is a call for solidarity,” Cat Blanchett UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador.


CALL TO ACTION: Now more than ever, we must continue to show solidarity with refugees. This is a pivotal moment in history. In these dark, uncertain times, we must not let hope slip away. We all have a stake in deciding what kind of world we want to live in. Do we choose empathy or apathy? If you believe that refugee rights and refugee lives matter, now is the time to make your voice count. In big and small ways, let us show up for refugees.

Are you still with refugees?

We can make a difference – starting now. This is our moment. Support refugees and share this video.

HOW YOU CAN SHOW SUPPORT: The UNHCR is a global organization, dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights and building a better future for people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution. We lead international action to protect and provide assistance for refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people. Donate to support UNHCR’s vital life-saving work. Buy and wear this bracelet made by refugees.

For questions regarding World Refugee Day, please contact hqwrd@unhcr.org.

.

International day for the elimination of sexual violence in conflict 2025; June 19th.

FORUM: "Breaking the Cycle, Healing the Scars: Addressing the Intergenerational Effects of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV)." International day for the elimination of sexual violence in conflict 2025. On this day, we will deepen our global understanding on the under-explored dimension of the CRSV agenda. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #CRSV, #sexualviolence.

EVENTS: On June 19th, a High-level Event to mark the International day for the elimination of sexual violence in conflict entitled '' Breaking the Cycle, Healing the Scars: Addressing the Intergenerational Effects of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV).'' In line with General Assembly Resolution 69/293 of 2015, will be held. Panelists, Member States, and senior United Nations officials, as informed by the perspectives of survivors, civil society representatives, the Member States will reiterate their commitment to address CRSV, including through adequate, flexible, and sustainable resourcing to the Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Multi-Partner Trust Fund (CRSV MPTF), understanding the need for long-term investment to promote survivor-centered and trauma-informed healing and recovery. Read the concept note!

 

International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2025; June 18th.

FORUM: "Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence nexus: Building coalitions to reclaim inclusive and safe spaces free of hatred." International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2025. The focus of today's  overall discussion will be on hate speech and artificial intelligence nexus building coalitions to reclaim inclusive and safe spaces. Technology can also make an important contribution to limiting hate speech. Artificial intelligence is already being used successfully in social networks to detect harmful content and take preventative measures. AI-based systems for detecting hate speech have been in use for a long time and have already achieved high success rates in other areas, such as fraud detection in the financial sector. These technologies not only help to identify potentially harmful content, but also offer the opportunity to take preventative action before words turn into actions. Hate speech does not have to be simply accepted or endured by those affected or bystanders. Various strategies exist for dealing with or responding to hate speech. Each of these counter-strategies has its advantages and disadvantages, and individuals should decide for themselves which approach is most helpful. In addition to options like ignoring, deleting, or reporting hate comments, countering them objectively, or blocking haters, an important strategy is utilizing support services. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #InternationalDayforCounteringhatespeech, #hatespeech, #18June, #notohate,

EVENTS: On June 18th, several high-level events  and side-event to mark the 4th International Day for Countering Hate Speech. at the UNHQ. The events will figure experts and practitioners in the field of coalition-building on countering hate speech who will present lessons learned and best practices. It will include speakers from the United Nations, tech and social media companies, community-based organizations and academia. To mark it, the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Morocco, jointly with the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect, the Human Rights Center of the University of Essex and the Garden or the Righteous Worldwide will join the observance. Read the Concept Note!

Side Event entitled ''Leveraging Football to Counter Antisemitism and Promote Holocaust Remembrance''.

Join the World Jewish Congress, the Permanent Mission of Germany to the United Nations, and the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention for a special event highlighting the role of sport in the fight against antisemitism and preserving Holocaust memory. Sport has the extraordinary power to bring people together across borders, cultures, and communities. This is especially true in the world of football, where clubs often serve as symbols of hope, unity, and social change. This gathering will spotlight Borussia Dortmund (BVB), one of Europe's leading football clubs, which has taken bold and proactive steps to combat hate, build bridges, and preserve historical memory both at home and abroad. Through firsthand testimonials and engaging discussion, we will explore how BVB's initiatives have made a meaningful impact—and how the global football community can follow their lead.

High-level Events (Part 1) International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2025: Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence nexus: Building coalitions to reclaim inclusive and safe spaces free of hatred.

Event on the occasion of the International day of Countering Hate Speech entitled "Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence nexus: Building coalitions to reclaim inclusive and safe spaces free of hatred"

High-level Event (Part 2) International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2025: Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence nexus: Building coalitions to reclaim inclusive and safe spaces free of hatred.

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025; June 17th.

FORUM: ''Restore the Land. Unlock the opportunities." World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025. This year’s Desertification and Drought Day focuses on one of the most urgent global challenges: restoring 1.5 billion hectares of degraded land and jumpstarting a trillion-dollar land restoration economy by 2030. More than half of global GDP relies on healthy ecosystems. Yet each year, an area the size of Egypt is degraded, driving biodiversity loss, increasing drought risk and displacing communities. The ripple effects are global—from rising food prices to instability and migration. But restoring land flips the script. Every dollar invested in restoration generates US$7 to US$30 in returns. Reviving land restores productivity, strengthens water cycles and supports millions of rural livelihoods. As we reach the midpoint of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), action is more urgent than ever. To meet global goals, 1.5 billion hectares must be restored by 2030. So far, 1 billion hectares have been pledged through initiatives like the G20 Global Land Restoration Initiative and the Great Green Wall Initiative. Now is the time to turn ambition into action.The financial case is clear, but action must follow. According to UNCCD Global Mechanism, the world needs to invest US$1 billion every day between 2025 and 2030 to stop and reverse land degradation. Current investments fall short at USD66 billion annually, with only 6% coming from the private sector. We need to scale up ambition and investment by both governments and businesses. This means unlocking new finance, creating decent jobs, embracing innovation and making the most of traditional knowledge. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #DesertificationAndDrought, #Drought, #ourlegacyourfuture, #United4land, #17june, #DesertificationDay.

EVENTS; On June 17th, Under the theme "Restore the land. Unlock the оpportunities," the 2025 observance will shine a light on how restoring nature’s foundation—land—can create jobs, boost food and water security, support climate action and build economic resilience. Events take place worldwide. 

The Republic of Colombia will host this year’s global observance of Desertification and Drought Day on 17 June, highlighting the country’s commitment to tackling land degradation through nature-based solutions. Taking place in Bogotá, the event will draw global attention to the urgent need to scale up land restoration as a catalyst for sustainability, peace, and inclusive development. The global observance will be part of the Global Land Forum, hosted by the Government of Colombia.Colombia’s decision to host the global event reflects its determination to restore land at scale and ensure that restoration efforts directly improve livelihoods and ecosystems. Faced with the serious challenge of land degradation — affecting nearly 30 per cent of its territory, or 34.39 million hectares — Colombia is stepping up with bold action. By 2030, it aims to restore 100,000 hectares of degraded land, conserve 22,000 hectares of dry forest, expand sustainable agroforestry systems, and support rural communities through targeted restoration and planning initiatives across priority regions. In hosting the observance, the country is also opening a platform for youth, Indigenous peoples, farmers, scientists and civil society to share local solutions that contribute to global goals. Colombia’s efforts reflect a broader global imperative: restoring land is essential to meeting today’s urgent challenges — from climate change and biodiversity loss to food insecurity and forced migration. Despite increasing momentum, including at UNCCD COP16, the true value of healthy land remains underestimated. Land degradation, drought and desertification cost the global economy an estimated US$878 billion each year. Meanwhile, restoring over one billion hectares of degraded land could generate up to US$1.8 trillion annually, with each dollar invested returning between US$7-US$30 in economic benefits. Yet the pace and scale of restoration remain far below what is needed. Colombia will welcome global leaders, experts, youth, and representatives from across society for the official celebration in Bogotá. Countries around the world are mobilizing to mark World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 with an array of educational, cultural and sporting activities to restore the land—and unlock the opportunities for a more sustainable, resilient and equitable future. Explore the events worldwide and Register to participate!

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025; June 17th.

What’s good for land is good for people and economies. But humanity is degrading land at an alarming rate, costing the global economy nearly $880 billion every year — far more than the investments needed to tackle the problem. Droughts are forcing people from their homes, and inflaming food insecurity – the number of newly displaced people is at its highest level in years. Repairing the damage we have done to our land offers huge benefits, including a great return on investment. It can reduce poverty, create jobs, safeguard water supplies, protect food production, and improve land rights and incomes – especially for smallholder farmers and women. The theme of this year’s Desertification and Drought Day – “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities” – is both a statement of fact and a call to action. I urge governments, businesses, and communities to answer the call and accelerate action on our shared global commitments on sustainable land use. We must reverse degradation, and boost finance for restoration – including by unlocking private investment. Let’s act now to heal land, seize opportunities, and improve lives. 

United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement of Ibrahim Thiaw, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Land degradation is more than just an environmental issue — it is a direct threat to our health, food and water security, and the stability of societies. When we lose healthy land, we weaken nutrition, increase the risk of disease, and expose communities to climate and economic shocks. Each dollar invested can yield up to thirty in returns. But beyond the numbers, restoring land is about protecting the dignity of communities, ensuring long-term access to food and water, and building a more stable and equitable world. Colombia’s leadership underscores what is possible when restoration becomes a national priority.

I thank the Republic of Colombia for its invitation to host this year’s observance, which will shine a light on how restoring land can protect nature, improve well-being, and build a more resilient future for all. 


Statement by Martha Viviana Carvajalino Villegas, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia,

The protection of agricultural soils and land is an urgent imperative in the face of interconnected crises threatening our survival: biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, hunger, poverty, and displacement. In response, we commemorate Desertification and Drought Day to reaffirm that protecting the soil is protecting life. This struggle rests on three pillars: soil conservation and restoration, sustainable, fair and resilient agri-food systems, and improved quality of life in rural and urban areas. Without fertile soil, there is no food; without food, there is no peace. We implement comprehensive policies: equitable land redistribution, restitution of rights to historically marginalized communities, and guarantees for sustainable resource management. In this way, we transform the soil into a shield against hunger, a bridge towards reconciliation, and a legacy of dignity for future generations. Land is not just a resource: it is the foundation of peace.

Statement by UN Biodiversity Executive Secretary Astrid Schomaker on World Day to combat Desertification and Drought 2024; June 17th.

PUBLICATION: Economics of drought — investing in nature-based solutions for drought resilience.

As droughts fueled by human destruction of the environment are projected to affect three in four people by 2050, investing in sustainable land and water management is essential. Read the full publication!

CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: Get the action toolkit!