World No-Tobacco Day 2024; May 31st.

FORUM: “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference.’’ World No-Tobacco Day 2024. This theme of WNTD 2024 is focused on advocating for an end to the targeting of youth with harmful tobacco products. This discourse provides a platform for young people, policy-makers and tobacco control advocates globally to discuss the issue and to urge governments to adopt policies that shield young people from the manipulative practices of the tobacco and related industries. Although cigarette smoking has decreased over the years due to phenomenal efforts by the tobacco control community, more must be done to safeguard these vulnerable groups. According to 2022 data, worldwide, at least 37 million young people aged 13–15 years use some form of tobacco. In the WHO European Region, 11.5% of boys and 10.1% of girls aged 13–15 years are tobacco users (4 million). Why the tobacco industry is targeting youth? To keep making billions of dollars in revenues, the tobacco industry needs to replace the millions of customers who die and those who quit tobacco use every year. To achieve this goal, it works to create an environment that promotes uptake of its products among the next generation, including lax regulation to ensure its products are available and affordable. The industry also develops products and advertising tactics that appeal to children and adolescents, reaching them through social media and streaming platforms. Products such as electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches are gaining popularity among youth. It is estimated that 12.5% of adolescents in the European Region used e-cigarettes in 2022 compared to 2% of adults. In some countries of the Region, the rates of e-cigarette use among school children are 2–3 times higher than the rates of cigarette smoking. The industry wilfully sells a deadly dependency to young people, therefore WNTD 2024 calls on the governments and tobacco control community to protect current and future generations and to hold the tobacco industry liable for the harm it causes. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #WorldNoTobaccoDay; #31May; #TobaccoControl.

EVENTS: The World No-Tobacco Day 2024 will be observed during a plenary session at WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland on May 31st. This year, once again, WHO and public health champions from across the globe will come together to raise awareness about the harmful influences of the tobacco industry on youth. We will also celebrate the anniversary of the adoption of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), the global public health treaty that serves as the world’s front-line defence against the tobacco epidemic. Adopted by the World Health Assembly in 2003, it became one of the most rapidly embraced treaties in United Nations history – now with 182 Parties, representing more than 90% of the world’s population. The Convention was the first treaty negotiated under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO), and in 2018 its first protocol – the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products – was adopted, further strengthening tobacco control.

STATEMENTS: Message from PAHO/WHO Regional Director; Dr Jarbas Barbosa, on World No Tobacco Day 2024; May 31st.

 

World No Tobacco Day 2024 walk event

International Day of Potato 2024; May 30th.

FORUM: “Harvesting diversity feeding hope.” International Day of Potato 2024. A staple food for the world’s population, potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, providing a primary source of energy. They also contain several micro-nutrients including B vitamins, vitamin C, folate, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Potatoes are a vital part of the global food system and play a critical role in strengthening world food security and alleviating poverty. The Sustainable production of potato can contribute to all four pillars of food security: availability, access, utilization, and stability. Due to its large genetic diversity, and its current cultivation and demand, potato research and innovation can contribute to sustainable agrifood systems and help to achieve Zero Hunger and the Sustainable Development Goals. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #30May, #Potato, #InternationalDayOfPotato.

EVENTS: Inaugural celebration of the International Day of Potato. On May 30th; to mark the International Day of Potato 2024; The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations will host a hybrid event entitled ”Harvesting diversity feeding Hope.”. Register to participate!

30 May 2024 | 16.00-17.30 (CEST) | Sheikh Zayed Centre and online.
High-Level Ceremony "Harvesting diversity, feeding hope"

30 May 2024 | 14.30-15.30 (CEST) | Sheikh Zayed Centre and online

Special event: “Fundamental role of the potato value chain in global food security”

Farmers’ Market event: “Producers supporting potato diversity”
30 May 2024 | 10.30-11.30 (CEST) |Campagna Amica Farmers’ Market, Via di San Teodoro 74, Rome.

From Brussels (BELGIUM), a Hybrid event will be held on on Monday, 27 May 2024, in Brussels, at the Residence Palace - International Day of Potato 2024 – Brussels Celebration. The FAO Liaison Office in Brussels is delighted to celebrate the first celebration. The event, which is co-organized with the Embassy of Peru in Belgium, will feature high-level interventions from FAO, Belgium, and Peru, and will close with the screening of the documentary “Opening the Earth: The Potato King”.

From Canada; Virtual event will be held on 29/04/2024, World Potato Congress webinar “International Day of Potato 2024 – Harvesting Diversity, Feeding Hope”. The World Potato Congress Inc. is pleased to present the Webinar: “Harvesting Diversity, Feeding Hope” presented by Dr André Devaux and Dr. Chikelu Mba, April 29, 2024, at 9:00 am Eastern Standard Time (USA/Canada). The presentation in Spanish will follow at 10:00am Eastern Standard Time (USA/Canada)

International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2024; May 29th.

FORUM: "Fit for the future; building better together." International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2024.

For 76 years, United Nations peacekeepers have worked to save and change lives in the world’s most fragile political and security situations. Since 1948, more than two million uniformed and civilian personnel have helped countries to transition from war to peace. Today, more than 70,000 peacekeepers serve in 11 missions deployed in hotspots around the world. Observed under the theme “Fit for the future, building better together,” this year’s International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last seven decades. It encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a more equal, just and sustainable world. Over the years, peacekeeping has evolved to adapt to the changing political landscape and nature of conflicts which have become more complex and interconnected. With support from member countries, it continues to advance the path set forth in the United Nations Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace which calls for a more robust, holistic and collective response to the security threats of today and tomorrow. Despite the challenges, peacekeepers persevere, alongside many partners, in the collective pursuit of peace. The International Day pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers and the resilience of the communities that they serve. It honors the more than 4,000 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving for peace. This campaign also calls on each of us to join the global movement for peace. Alone, we can never succeed. But, together, we can be a strong force for change. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #PKday, #FitForTheFuture, #BuildingBetterTogether, #Peacekeeping, #29May, #Peacebegins, #WomenInPeacekeeping.

EVENTS: on May 29th, We observe a minute of silence for the fallen during the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2024. On Thursday, May 30th 2024, starting at 9:45 a.m. ET, a Wreath Laying Ceremony will be held at the North Lawn building of the UNHQ with the United Nations Peacekeeping. the UN Secretary-General will lay a wreath at the Peacekeepers Memorial in honour of fallen peacekeepers. Following that, at 11 a.m. ET, he will preside over an in-person ceremony at which the Dag Hammarskjold Medal will be awarded posthumously to fallen peacekeepers. He will also present the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year award. Follow the ceremony on UN Web TV. The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, will be the guest at the noon briefing on 30 May. All events can be followed live on UN Web TV.

Medal recipients: At the meeting, by resolution 1121 (1997), the U.N. Security Council established the United Nations Dag Hammarskjöld Medal as a posthumous award to members of peacekeeping operations "as a tribute to the sacrifice of those who have lost their life as a result of service in peacekeeping operations under the operational control and authority of the United Nations".

Award: The United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award recognizes the dedication and effort of an individual peacekeeper in promoting the principles within the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325. It was first given out in 2016. To mark the International Day at UN Headquarters, the UN Secretary-General will lay a wreath at the Peacekeepers Memorial in honor of fallen peacekeepers at 9:45 a.m. ET on Thursday, 30 May 2024.

List of Personnel to be Posthumously Awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal on 30 May 2024

Follow the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal Awards Ceremony on UN Web TV (11:00 am, 30 May 2024)

Wreath Laying Ceremony: The commemorations are held at the U.N. Headquarters, United Nations offices and at different U.N. Peacekeeping missions Here is the List of Personnel to be Posthumously Awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal.

Statement of the Secretary-general on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2024; May 29th.

For 76 years, United Nations peacekeepers have worked to save and change lives in the world’s most fragile political and security situations. Since 1948, more than two million uniformed and civilian personnel have helped countries to transition from war to peace. Today, more than 70,000 peacekeepers serve in 11 missions deployed in hotspots around the world. Observed under the theme “Fit for the future, building better together,” this year’s International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last seven decades. It encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a more equal, just and sustainable world. Over the years, peacekeeping has evolved to adapt to the changing political landscape and nature of conflicts which have become more complex and interconnected. With support from UN member countries, it continues to advance the path set forth in the UN Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace which calls for a more robust, holistic and collective response to the security threats of today and tomorrow. Despite the challenges, peacekeepers persevere, alongside many partners, in the collective pursuit of peace. The International Day pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers and the resilience of the communities that they serve. It honors the more than 4,000 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving for peace. This campaign also calls on each of us to join the global movement for peace. Alone, we can never succeed. But, together, we can be a strong force for change.

United Nations Secretary-general.

EVENTS: Medal Ceremony - International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2024.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to preside over Dag Hammarskjold medal and Military Gender Advocate of the Year ceremony in the Trusteeship Council chamber. For 76 years, United Nations peacekeepers have worked to save and change lives in the world's most fragile political and security situations. Since 1948, more than two million uniformed and civilian personnel have helped countries to transition from war to peace. Today, more than 70,000 peacekeepers serve in 11 missions deployed in hotspots around the world. Observed under the theme "Fit for the future, building better together," this year's International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last seven decades. It encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a more equal, just and sustainable world.

STORY FROM THE FIELDS

By providing training to the National police, she helps build their skills and expertise on community policing activities.

LIVESTREAM: Wreath Laying Ceremony at United Nations North Lawn Building.

 

World Football Day 2024; May 25th.

FORUM: ”The Transformative Power of Football.” World Football Day 2024. Sports have been instrumental in promoting peace globally and have played a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Football, as a prominent global sport, holds a unique position. Beyond mere recreation, it is a universal language spoken by people of all ages, transcending national, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries. This shared passion fosters a sense of community and national pride. Football's broad appeal and accessibility make it a potent tool for promoting health and well-being. It has also served as a vital platform for advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, both on and off the field. Moreover, football serves as a catalyst for social inclusion, fostering unity and breaking down barriers between diverse communities. It provides a space where individuals from various backgrounds converge to promote mutual understanding, tolerance, respect, and solidarity. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #25May, #Football, #worldfootballday, #GlobalGoals.

EVENTS: On May 25th, the United Nations have celebrate the World Football Day 2024 at UNHQ; This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament in history with the representation of all regions, which took place on May 25, 1924, during the summer Olympic games held in Paris. Read the Agenda programme, the Concept Note and Watch the live-stream!

PRESS CONFERENCE: FIFA World Cup 26™ Host Cities gather in Toronto as game-changing tournament edges closer.

TOURNAMENTS: Upcoming tournaments and events.

PUBLICATIONS: The Seoul World Cup 1988 and the USA World cup 1999. Read the FIFA Reports & Documents.

LIVESTREAM: Celebration at UNHQ in New York.

Africa Day 2024; May 25th.

FORUM: “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa. Africa Day 2024. Education is the foundation for individual success and a prosperous Africa. We call upon all stakeholders across all sectors to join us in this transformative journey. Join us in celebrating Africa Day and shaping the future of education in Africa! In line with the AU theme of the year "Education Fit for the 21st Century," engage in discussions, share your ideas, and help us transform education across all our social media platform. Here's how you can participate: Share your thoughts and ideas on how education can be transformed to meet the needs of the 21st century; To Highlight educational initiatives and programs that are making a difference in your community or country. To Discuss the importance of education in driving socio-economic development and creating opportunities for all Africans. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: 25May, #AfricaDay, #YearofEducation, #Agenda2063.

EVENTS: Celebrations at the United Nations. The theme for Africa Day 2024 will focus on women in agriculture. The objectives are to Explore the intersection between women's rights and agriculture; to Showcase the potential and promise of Africa, and highlight the positive narrative of the continent; To Recognize developments and advancements in Africa from 1963 to the present; To Inspire and empower women in leadership in agriculture, as well as related sectors; To Bring attention to and popularize the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly goal 2 (Zero Hunger), the goal 5 (Gender Equality) and the goal 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), in tandem with Africa Agenda 2063; To Create and formulate solutions, initiatives and opportunities for achieving a better, more equitable world, where no one is left behind. On Saturday 25th May 2024; starting at 17:00hrs (GMT+3) at Adwa Victory Memorial, Addis Ababa; The Maisha Dance festival entitled "The Power of Art to Unite," will celebrate the vibrant cultures of Africa and the European Union through the universal language of dance. This event is a unique opportunity to honor Africa Day and highlight the shared values of unity, diversity, and cultural exchange. Read the festival information! On February 17, 2024, the UNESCO was invited to the official launch of the AU's 2024 theme in Addis Ababa, during the Heads of State and Government Summit.

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the occasion of Africa Day 2024, May 25th.

On Africa Day, we celebrate this dynamic and diverse continent and the contributions of Africans to our world. The continent’s young and growing population, its rich natural resources, its breathtaking beauty and cultural diversity give it outsize potential.

Initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, along with Africa’s growing voice, including leadership in renewable energy, can help realize that potential.


But a bright future for Africa’s 1.2 billion people means addressing the challenges blocking Africa’s progress — from the effects of climate change to deadly conflicts and unconstitutional changes of government, to hunger, poverty, inequality and crushing debt burdens.

We need to rescue the Sustainable Development Goals. This will require, among other actions, that we reform the international financial architecture so developing countries can access the resources they will need to invest in the future of their people — including strengthening education systems, this year’s African Union theme.

We must work side by side with Africa to build green economies anchored in renewable energy, and ensure that the continent’s critical mineral resources benefit Africans first and foremost.

We must strengthen our collaboration to safeguard human rights, counter terrorism and violent extremism, and — finally — silence the guns across Africa. The UN Security Council’s recent resolution to support African-led peace operations is an important step.

Throughout, Africa must have a seat at every multilateral forum — including the UN Security Council, the international financial system, and other global norm-setting structures. September’s Summit of the Future in New York will be a moment to create momentum and progress.

On Africa Day, let’s renew our pledge to stand with all Africans in their quest to lead their continent — and our world — into a peaceful and prosperous future for all.

UN Secretary-General.

LIVESTREAM: Celebration of Africa Day 2024 at UNHQ

Celebrating Innovation, Development, and Culture in Africa.
The UNESCO #AfricaWeek returns in 2024 with a rich and varied program under the theme "Education for Innovation, Development, and Culture in Africa."
African Union & UNESCO on Africa Day 2024.

This annual #event celebrates the cultural diversity of the #Africancontinent and will highlight the importance of education for sustainable development and innovation.
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - Opening Ceremony ( by invitation only)

The week will kick off on Wednesday, May 22, with a grand opening ceremony in Room I.
will be welcomed from 9:30 AM with African musical ambiance, followed by the arrival of VIPs at 10:10 AM. Introductory remarks will start at 10:40 AM, followed by the screening of a video related to this year's theme. Remarks will include those from the President of the Organizing Committee, the President of the Africa Group, and the Director-General of UNESCO or their representative.

Performances and Exhibitions:The morning will continue with artistic performances at 11:20 AM, followed by the opening of exhibitions and craft stalls, accompanied by a musical interlude in the Pas Perdus, Miro, and Ségur halls.

- Exhibitions, Craft Stalls, Book Fair - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM in the Miro Room, Pas Perdus Hall, and Ségur Hall.
AfriKids Session: The afternoon will be dedicated to children with the "AfriKids" session from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Actes Room. This session will include various activities:
- Calligraphy & Creative Painting Workshop
- Special session of African storytelling readings
- Children's/Doll fashion show
- Live Chat & Arts Animations

Live chat: discussions on "Learning for Sustainable Peace: The Role of Culture and Education "- 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM in the Ségur Hall
Live art: musical performances
Dikanza do Semba - 4:45 PM to 5:00 PM in the Ségur Hall
Fashion Show: A fashion show is scheduled from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM in Room I, showcasing the richness of African fabrics and styles. Eleven countries will participate: Algeria, Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Mali, Morocco, South Africa, Sudan, Togo

Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 

Exhibitions and Book Fair: Exhibitions, book fair, and arts and crafts stalls will continue from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Conferences: A conference/panel on the theme "How does education contribute to promoting African culture in its diversity?" will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Room IV.
Eminent researchers and personalities will offer their thoughts on the contribution of education to strengthening cultural diversity in Africa. These interventions will be followed by discussions with the public.
Speakers: Professor Dr. KHALED EL-ENANY (EGYPT):
Sub-theme: "Raising young people's awareness of cultural heritage: Egyptian strategies and Egyptian initiatives & quot.
- Dr. SAO OUSMANE (MAURITANIA): University Researcher
Sub-theme: "The importance of cultural diversity in schools: Why and how?
- Dr. AHMED SKOUNTI (MOROCCO): Professor of Anthropology,Cultural Heritage Expert at the Institut National des Sciences de l'Archéologie et du Patrimoine (INSAP),
Rabat: 'Education and Cultural Heritage in Africa: Introductory considerations'.
- Ms AMINATA TRAORE (MALI): Professor of economics and management, President of the association Les Enfants du Djoliba

 'Library is an inclusive space that can become a powerful cultural vector for local communities, especially children.
- Dr. Safiatou DIALLO (GUINEA): Senior Researcher in the UNDP social cohesion project, Founder and President of the Center d'Innovation et de Recherche pour le Développement (CIRD) in Conakry. "How education contributes to the promotion of African African culture in all its diversity".
Moderator: Prof. Cyril MUSILA, Deputy Permanent Delegate of the Democratic Republic of Congo to UNESCO.
Live art: musical performances
- 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM in the Ségur Hall
- 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM with DJ Amapiano France in the Ségur Hall
Live chat: discussions "New pathways in artificial intelligence for African youth and development" - 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the Ségur Hall.

Reception-Cocktail: A tasting lunch of typical African dishes will be held from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM on the Piazza.
Cinema Theme: "Education for Innovation, Development, and Culture in Africa. Film Screenings of African films will take place from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Cinema Room and Room IV.

Maison de l'UNESCO

International Day of the markhor 2024; May 24th.

FORUM: “Preserving the markhor and its natural habitat.“ International Day of the markhor 2024. The markhor (Capra falconeri) is an iconic and ecologically significant species found across the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, including Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Preserving the markhor and its natural habitat is an ecological imperative and a significant opportunity to bolster the regional economy, Let’s discuss about the ways to foster conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism and economic growth which will benefit the ecosystem. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #24May, #Markhor, #habitat, #ecological, #InternationalDayOfTheMarkhor, #ProtectMarkhors.

EVENTS: On March 23rd, from 14:00 to 17th:30 PM (EST), the United Nations Biodiversity, the CITES Secretariat, the United Nations Environment Programme, the Convention on migratory species, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the IUCN, the UNODC, the World Wildlife Fund and TRAFFIC, Trade in Wild Species will held a webinar to mark the first-ever International Day of the Markhor. The markhor plays an important role in ecological balance and boosts local economies through sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives. However, the markhor is under threat from habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and climate change. Listed as 'near threatened' and safeguarded under CITES since 1992, strengthening conservation efforts is essential for its survival and the well-being of its environment. By enhancing international and regional collaboration, we can support efforts to preserve the markhor and encourage sustainable practices that benefit whole ecosystems. Register to Participate!

From October 12th to 15th, 2024; Taking place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the 9th World Conference on Mountain Ungulates aims to share scientific research focused on improving management and fostering conservation efforts for mountain hooved mammals and their ecosystems. Learn more about the conference!

International Day of Vesak 2024; May 23rd.

FORUM: Vesak Day 2024 falls on 22 May 2024. Vesak is one of the most important Buddhist festivals. It is also known as Wesak or Buddha Day. It is a celebration of Buddha’s birthday and, for some Buddhists, marks his enlightenment (when he discovered life’s meaning). It is also a time to reflect on his teachings and what it means to be Buddhist.

COMMEMORATIONS: For this Vesak Day we will also be open to public for offering to Buddha on 22 May 4pm-7pm.
There will be a prayer at 2pm which all are welcome to come to chant together. Special spiritual items will also be made available for purchase.

FESTIVAL During this Vesak Day we will be seeking kind contributors to contribute as we plan to light up 108 candles to brighter up the path for all sentient beings. The energy exchange for the candle will be $60. First come first serve.

International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2024; May 23rd.

FORUM: “FIGO at 70: Our journey towards improving sexual and reproductive rights.” International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2024. Obstetric fistula is a development and public health issue, but it’s also a human rights issue, one that grants everyone the right to health and a life of dignity.The injury can be prevented by sexual and reproductive health care, access to contraception and access to skilled birth attendants and high-quality emergency obstetric care. With its many partners, UNFPA leads the Campaign to End Fistula, which works in more than 55 countries on prevention, treatment and rehabilitation efforts. It can be treated with reconstructive surgery, though many women and girls don’t know about treatment, can’t access it or can’t afford it. As FIGO celebrates its 70th anniversary, we mark the vital role the Advocating for Safe Abortion (ASA) Project has had in improving the sexual and reproductive health and rights of people in lower income and lower middle-income countries. Here we reflect on the project's evolution, successes and enduring legacy. Beyond national borders, the ASA Project's influence expanded to the regional level through newly established Communities of Practice. Understanding the importance of creating spaces for advocates to learn, plan and motivate each other, FIGO partnered with SAGO and ECSACOG to establish committed networks of advocates in West Africa and East, Central and Southern Africa whose continued work delivers even greater impact in the region. Join us in celebrating FIGO's 70th anniversary - share your memories with us. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #EndFistula, #EndFistulaDay; #23May.

EVENTS: On May 23rd The International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2024 will be observed at UNFPA Headquarters in New York. The United Nations Member States are invited to consult the resolution to end fistula by 2030. We are hopeful to develop even more strategic partnerships. One such partnership is with the World Association of Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynecology (WATOG). Having been inaugurated under the auspices of FIGO, WATOG is now leading the path for future OBGYNs. We should all continuously strengthen our next generation of professionals. we wish to encourage member societies and partners to explore the twinning opportunities. As FIGO – through their Regional Trustees – localises women’s health in five regions. Together, through north-south and south-south collaborations will accelerate the achievement of the sustainability and development goals (SDGs). As FIGO celebrates their 70th anniversary, They look to opportunities to meet, share and learn from one another. First at the FIGO Asia Oceania Regional Congress – Bali 2024, in November 2024, then at the XXV FIGO World Congress of Gynecology and Obstetrics in Cape Town, South Africa, in October 2025. Collectively, we must pursue the women’s health agenda. FIGO, the global voice for women’s health, must leap onward! You are to participate to these congresses to learn, share, build alliances, and shape the future of women’s and reproductive health. Pre-register for the FIGO 2025 World Congress to contribute to help more women living with obstetric fistula to recover and rebuild their lives.

International Day For Biological Diversity 2024; May 22nd.

FORUM: “Be part of the Plan” International Day For Biological Diversity 2024. The theme is a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also referred to as the The Biodiversity Plan. The Biodiversity Plan offers opportunities for cooperation and partnerships among diverse actors. Governments, indigenous peoples and local communities, non-governmental organizations, lawmakers, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to highlight the ways in which they are supporting the implementation of the Biodiversity Plan. Everyone has a role to play and therefore can Be Part of the Plan. Read the full notification with more information about this year's theme and Learn about the plan. Now the world has the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (agreement), the focus must quickly shift to its implementation (action). Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #PartOfThePlan, #ForNature, #BiodiversityDay, #22May, #biodiversity, #KMGBF, #HarmonyWithNature,#ForNature, #ActionDecade.

EVENTS: on May 22nd at United Nations Headquarters, the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the United Nations Biodiversity, the IPBeS, the UNESCO Man and the biosphere (MAB) programme, the UN Environment, the UNDP, the UNCCD, the UNFCCC, the UNEP/CMS, the CITES Secretariat, the FAO, the Ramsar secretary and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) will celebrate the International Day For Biological Diversity 2024 along with the United Nations Member States, governments, indigenous peoples, local communities, non-governmental organizations and concerned individuals are pleased to invite you to debate on the theme. This year the celebration of IDB will coincide with two meetings of Subsidiary Bodies of the Convention on Biological Diversity both taking place in Nairobi, namely: the twenty-sixth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA, 13-18 May) and the fourth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI, 21-29 May). The IDB 2024 observance is expected to increase the visibility momentum in the lead-up to the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16), to be held in Colombia from 21 October to 1 November 2024. Register to participate and get the IDB2024 Agenda programme.

Local celebrations: The IDB 2024 events are scheduled to take place around the world. Find out what is happening near you or online in this (non-exhaustive) list - Canada (2) - Germany (1) - Hungary (1) - Iceland (2) - India (7) - Indonesia (1) - Iraq (1) - Italy (4) - Malaysia (1) - Morocco (1) - Myanmar (1) -Netherlands (Kingdom of the) (3) - Nigeria (1) - Paraguay (1) - Philippines (2) - Poland (1) - Portugal (1) - Romania (2) - Somalia (1) - Spain (1) - Sweden (1) -Switzerland (1) - United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (2) - United States of America (2) - Viet Nam (2).


Flagship celebrations: International Geneva on the implementation of the Biodiversity Plan - The COP 15 Presidency celebrates IDB 2024 - The COP 16 Presidency-Designate in celebration of the 2024 IDB - The Parties to the CBD on the observance of the International Day for Biological Diversity -The Birds Canada in celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity

STATEMENTS: Read the Message from the U.N. Secretary General on the International Day for Biological Diversity 2024; May 22nd.

Messages: Read the High-level messages from the COP 15 Presidency-Statement from Huang Runqiu, Minister of Ecology and Environment of PCR on IBD 2024, the COP 14 Presidency - Statement from Yasmine Fouad, Minister of Environment of Egypt, the COP 10 Presidency - Statement from Shintaro Ito, Minister of the Environment, Japan, the Written statement of the Canadian Minister of Environment and Climate Change on IDB 2024, the Incoming COP 16 Presidency - Statement from Susana Muhamad, Minister of Environment, Colombia on IDB2024, the Statement from Ibrahim Thiaw, Under-Secretary-General & Executive Secretary of the UNCCD on IDB2024, the statement of the Executive Secretary of the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds on IDB2024, the statement of the secretary-general of CITES on IDB2024, the Statement of the executive-secretary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) on IDB2024, the Statement from Qu Dongyu, Director-General, FAO on IBD2024, the Statement from Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, Global Environment Facility CEO and Chairperson on IBD2024, the Statement from Achim Steiner, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on IDB2024, the Statement from Mr. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary, UNFCCC on IBD2024, the Statement from Prof. Dr. Shen Xiaomeng, Vice-Rector in Europe and Director of UNU-EHS and The Endorsement messages made for this occasion.

LIVESTREAM: International Day for Biodiversity Celebrations.

The United Nations has proclaimed May 22nd as International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. When first created by the Second Committee of the United Nations General Assembly in late 1993, 29 December (the date of entry into force of the Convention of Biological Diversity), was designated.

Statement of the U.N. Secretary-General on the International Day for Biological Diversity 2024; May 22nd.


The world’s complex web of biological diversity sustains all life on earth. Yet it is unravelling at alarming speed – and humanity is to blame.

We are contaminating land, oceans, and freshwater with toxic pollution, wrecking landscapes and ecosystems, and disrupting our precious climate with greenhouse gas emissions. Decimating biodiversity damages sustainable development today, and creates a dangerous and uncertain tomorrow.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework offers a pathway to reverse loss and restore biodiversity – while creating jobs, building resilience, and spurring sustainable development.

Governments must lead. But as this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity reminds us, we are all “Part of the Plan” – we all have a role to play. Indigenous Peoples, business, financial institutions, local and regional authorities, civil society, women, young people, and academia must work together to value, protect and restore biodiversity in a way that benefits everyone.

As we mark this Day for Biological Diversity, let us commit to be Part of the Plan. Let us act urgently to put biodiversity on a path to recovery. And let us build ambition to CBD COP16 in October to protect the planet and create a more sustainable future for us all.

United Nations Secretary-General.

COMMUNICATIONS MATERIALS