International Civil Aviation Day 2025; December 7th.

FORUM: "Safe and Sustainable Flying for all." International Civil Aviation Day 2025.Every year, International Civil Aviation Day raises global awareness of the vital role aviation plays in connecting people, supporting economies, and driving sustainable development worldwide. It also underscores ICAO's leadership in fostering safe, secure, and environmentally responsible air transport for all. It's also a day to recognize the millions of professionals who keep the world flying and ensure aviation remains safe, reliable, and accessible every day. Their commitment is at the heart of safe skies and a resilient, sustainable future. On this occasion we'll learn on how icao helps the world stay connected, while being a driving force behind the safe, secure and sustainable development of global aviation. Follow the conservations with the hashtags: #Flyday, #CivilAviationDay, #7December, #AviationDevelopment, #AdvancingInnovation.

EVENT: ​December 7th will mark the 81st anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation in Chicago, United States. For eighty one years, this defining international agreement has served as the foundation for the development of the global civil aviation system to the benefit of all nations. While the celebration will offer the opportunity to reflect on important achievements over the last past years, more importantly it will serve as an opportunity to reflect collectively with all stakeholders on how aviation development will continue to be supported by ICAO over the coming decades. Join us in championing safe skies and a sustainable future for everyone,

Register to participate!

LIVESTREAM: Safe & Sustainable Flying for all - Intl' Civil Aviation Day 2025.

PUBLICATION: As international civil aviation enters a new era marked by unprecedented challenges and opportunities, ICAO presents its comprehensive Strategic Plan for 2026-2050. With air traffic projected to reach 12.4 billion passengers by 2050, this plan guides our sector toward a more safe, secure, economically viable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable future.

A safe, secure and sustainable international civil aviation system that connects the world for the benefit of all nations and people.

The 3 Essential Aspirations are:

Net-Zero Carbon Emissions
Achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 for international civil aviation operations. ​
Connected Transport System

Serve as an integral part of a thriving, connected, accessible, inclusive, and affordable transport system for people and goods, contributing to socio-economic development, while ensuring no country is left behind. ​
Zero Fatalities
Achieve zero fatalities in international aviation from accidents and acts of unlawful interference. ​

The Goals and Objectives

To lead international civil aviation as a key driver of social and economic development while enhancing aviation safety, security, economic development and environmental sustainability for a growing aviation system by advancing air law, developing policies, plans and standards, monitoring and auditing, and supporting States’ capabilities for the benefit of all nations and people.

Strategic Goals

Every Flight Is Safe and Secure.
Achieve zero fatalities and ensure continuous protection for air passengers, cargo, and staff. ​

Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable.
Achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and mitigate aircraft noise and emissions. ​

Aviation Delivers Seamless, Accessible, and Reliable Mobility for All.
Facilitate seamless air navigation and travel through well-coordinated and affordable services.

 ​No Country Left Behind.
Enable achievement of safety, security, efficiency, and sustainability goals through collaboration and support.

The International Civil Aviation Convention and Other Treaties, Laws and Regulations Address All Challenges.
Maintain responsive international air law addressing current and emerging challenges. ​

The Economic Development of Air Transport Assures the Delivery of Economic Prosperity and Societal Well-Being for All.

Foster development of an economically viable aviation system delivering prosperity for all. ​


High Priority Enablers

1. ICAO Continuous Organizational Improvement
2. Innovation
3. Gender Equality and Attracting New Talent to Aviation
4. Partnerships, Resource Mobilization and Financial Sustainability

Download Full Strategic Plan (PDF) in EN.
Download Strategic Plan (Pamphlet) in EN.

World Soil Day 2025; December 5th.

FORUM: "Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities." World Soil Day 2025. Urban soils provide essential ecosystem services: they support food production, filter water, store carbon, regulate temperatures, and sustain biodiversity. However, soil sealing, pollution, and urban expansion threaten these benefits, increasing flood risks, intensifying heat islands and threatening food production in peri-urban land. Solutions exist. De-sealing, green roofs, urban vegetation and agriculture, composting, and sustainable urban planning can turn soil into opportunities to strengthen climate action, improve public health, reduce disaster risks, and foster inclusive and greener cities. It’s a day to reflect on the importance of soil in the natural system and celebrate the actions being taken worldwide to safeguard it. This World Soil Day, the spotlight is on soil as a critical resource for life on Earth. Healthy soils play a key role in maintaining biodiversity, reducing erosion and pollution, improving water filtration, and building resilient and sustainable food systems. They also contribute significantly to climate action through carbon sequestration, Let's underscore the importance of accurate soil data and information in understanding soil characteristics and supporting informed decision making on sustainable soil. WSD is a unique global platform that not only celebrates soils but also an occasion to empower and engage citizens around the world to improve soil health. Our planet’s survival depends on the precious link between soil and water. Over 95% of our food originates from these two fundamental resources. Soil and water are vital for nutrient absorption by plants, binds our ecosystems together. This symbiotic relationship is the foundation of our agricultural systems. However, in the face of climate change and human activity, our soils are being degraded, putting excessive pressure on our water resources. Erosion disrupts the natural balance, reducing water infiltration and availability for all forms of life. Sustainable soil management practices, such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, organic matter addition, and cover cropping, improve soil health, reduce erosion and pollution, and enhance water infiltration and storage. These practices also preserve soil biodiversity, improve fertility, and contribute to carbon sequestration, playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Follow the conversations with the hashags: #worldSoilDay, #5December, #soilandwater, #soil.

EVENT: On December 5th, from 13:15 to 14:30 GMT, the World Soil Day 2025 will be celebrated at FAO HQ in Rome, Italy. . Healthy soils are the foundation of life on Earth. World Soil Day (WSD) celebrates soils and raises awareness of their importance for sustainable agrifood systems and human well-being. The theme for 2025 is "Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities" and focuses on the role of soils in cities. Related  Documents: Concept Note & FAO Webpage, Register to participate!

During the celebration, we will celebrate soils and raise awareness of their importance for sustainable agrifood systems, climate action, biodiversity, and human well-being. The annual celebration, which also coincides with the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great of Thailand, pays tribute to His Majesty’s lifelong dedication to championing sustainable soil management as a means to improve people’s quality of lives. 

The Permanent Missions of the Kingdom of Thailand, and XXX, together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, invite you to commemorate the World Soil Day in New York, on 4 December 2025, from 13.15 - 14.30 hrs at Conference Room (TBC), UN Headquarters. The event will be conducted in English only and webcasted on UN WebTV. World Soil Day 2025 is a call to action. It invites policymakers, scientists, city leaders, civil society, and citizens everywhere to reimagine urban spaces through their soils, ensuring that people and nature can thrive together in healthy green cities. The event will feature a variety of voices including Member States, UN Agencies, New York City’s Mayor’s Office, scientists, professors, students and local farmers.

Rome (Italy), 05/12/2025 -   World Soil Day official celebration

Healthy soils for healthy cities.



Healthy soils are the foundation of life on Earth. Each year on 5 December, World Soil Day (WSD) celebrates soils and raises awareness of their importance for sustainable agrifood systems, climate action, biodiversity, and human well-being.

The theme for 2025, “Healthy soils for healthy cities”, focuses on the role of soils in cities and the challenges posed by soil sealing and urbanization.

With two-thirds of the world’s population expected to live in cities by 2050, soils are the foundations of sustainable and resilient cities.

World Soil Day 2025 is a call to action! It invites policymakers, scientists, city leaders, civil society, and citizens everywhere to reimagine urban spaces through their soils, ensuring that people and nature can thrive together in healthy green cities.

Draft agenda
Time (CET)Programme

10:00 – 10:05 Welcome and Introduction
Ms Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General, FAO
10:05 – 10:35 High-level Opening

Dr. QU Dongyu, Director-General, FAO

Ms Anacláudia Marinheiro Centeno Rossbach, Executive Director, United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
10:35 – 10:40 Artistic performance: “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”
10:40 – 10:50 Moderator: Mr Lifeng Li, Director, Land and Water Division, FAO

Remarks by H.E. Igor L. Golubovskiy, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to FAO

Video presentation of the laureate of Glinka World Soil Prize 2025

Delivery of the Glinka World Soil Prize 2025 by Dr QU Dongyu, Director-General, FAO, and H.E. Igor L. Golubovskiy, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to FAO

10:50 – 10:55 Remarks by the laureate of the Glinka World Soil Prize 2025
10:55 – 11:05 Remarks by Ms Narumol Sanguanvong, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand

Video presenting the winner of the King Bhumibol World Soil Day Award 2025

11:05 – 11:10 Video
World Soil Day 2025 animation: “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”
11:10 – 11:15 Announcement of the winners of the contest “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”
By Ms. Thorunn Wolfram, Secretary of the Global Soil Partnership, FAO
11:15 – 11:20 Conclusions and closing remarks
Ms Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General, FAO

Contact - world-soil-day@fao.org

LIVESTREAM: The theme for 2025, “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”, focuses on the role of soils in cities and the challenges posed by soil sealing and urbanization. With two-thirds of the world’s population expected to live in cities by 2050, soils are the foundation of sustainable and resilient cities Watch the celebration of World Soil Day 2025!

International Volunteer Day 2025; December 5th.

FORUM: “Every contribution matters” International Volunteer Day 2025. More than 2.1 billion volunteers worldwide act every month to foster solidarity and humanity. Their efforts are vital for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, responding to humanitarian emergencies, and building resilient communities. IVY 2026 calls on governments, United Nations entities, civil society, academia and the private sector to deepen global understanding of volunteerism, promote knowledge-sharing, and integrate volunteering into national development strategies. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #5December, #everycontributionmatters, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #IVD2025.

EVENTS: On December 5th; The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) celebrates International Volunteer Day 2025 under the theme “Every contribution matters”, announcing two major milestones: The global launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026, as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly through resolution 78/127; and the release of the 2026 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report (SWVR), which sets the tone for an initiative to recognize and advance volunteer contributions to sustainable development. The official opening of IVY 2026 takes place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Germany, Kazakhstan and UNV. The event features high-level remarks by the President of the General Assembly, the co-hosts, a multi-stakeholder Global Call to Action for the Future of Volunteering, and the unveiling of the 2026 SWVR.

Around the world, events marking International Volunteer Day and the launch of the International Volunteer Year are taking place this week; from a running activity and parade in Bangkok, to the International Forum of Civil Participation in Moscow, celebrations in Nantong and Shanghai in China, a regional launch in Uzbekistan and Kenya’s national launch at the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, among many others.   Register to participate!

Statement of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres International Volunteer Day 2025; December 5th.

In an era of political division and social isolation, volunteering offers a powerful way to forge connections and foster our shared humanity.

On this International Volunteer Day, we honour the millions across the globe stepping forward to serve their communities and advance the greater good.

This year’s theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” reminds us that everyone has something meaningful to offer, and that every cause, from hunger, to climate, to humanitarian action, benefits from the enthusiasm and expertise of volunteers.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the more than 14,000 people who have served through the United Nations Volunteers programme, and to the countless others who give their time and talents to help neighbours and strangers alike. Your commitment, solidarity and compassion are shaping a better world.

This week also marks the launch of the International Volunteer Year 2026.

Over the next twelve months, I urge everyone, everywhere to volunteer for a cause that matters to you. In times of crisis and uncertainty, you can be the change you wish to see.

Together, we can grow a global movement of volunteers, and build a brighter, more caring future for all.

António Guterres, Secretary-General.

Statement from UNDP Associate Administrator Haoliang Xu on International Volunteer Day 2025.

Today on International Volunteer Day 2025, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of volunteers across the world. That includes those who rush to disasters, who teach, mentor, and open
doors for the next generation or simply those who listen when no one else will.
We're also reminded that every contribution matters. More than 2.1 billion people volunteer every month. That's one in three working age adults choosing freely and without pay to make someone else's life better. The United Nations Development Program has been extremely proud to host United Nations volunteers since 1971. UNV has been an engine that promotes volunteerism worldwide and mobilizes talented individuals as UN volunteers across the United Nations system.
In 2025 alone, over 14,500 of them played a vital role from responding to disasters and conflicts, building peace, and advancing development in some of the world's most challenging contexts. The commitment, expertise and the compassion of UN volunteers are quietly changing the world. This international volunteer day also marks the launch of the international year of volunteer for sustainable development in 2026. It is an invitation to listen more deeply to volunteers, to support them more smartly, to measure their impact better and to celebrate their diversity and creativity.
Because when more people volunteer, communities grow stronger and the sustainable development goals become more likely a reality on the ground.
Finally, on behalf of UNDP, I would like to thank volunteers everywhere for your time, your skills, and your unshakable belief that a better word is possible.

Happy International Volunteer Day.

PUBLICATION: For more details, visit International Volunteer Day 2025, International Volunteer Year 2026, and read the 2026 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report.

 

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: Social media materials are available on UNV's Trello.

LIVESTREAM: Opening Event of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026.

Aligned with the 2025 International Volunteer Day theme, "Every contribution matters", the event will serve as a platform for Member States to pledge concrete actions to operationalize Resolution 78/127 such as integrating volunteerism into national development strategies and establishing national committees to lead their International Volunteer Year campaigns at the country level.

• Opening
• Special Remarks
• Launch of the 2026 State of the World's Volunteerism Report: Every contribution matters
• Plenary
• Closing

This opening event will bring together Member States, United Nations entities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to elevate the visibility of volunteers and position volunteerism as a strategic enabler of sustainable development, peacebuilding and humanitarian response.

The event will feature the launch of the 2026 State of the World's Volunteerism Report, setting the tone for a year-long global initiative to recognize, amplify and advance the contributions of volunteers to global development and resilience.

The event is co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Kazakhstan and Germany and the United Nations Volunteers programme.
Get the Concept note!

Learn more about the International Volunteer Year.

International Day of Banks 2025; December 5th.

FORUM: ''Highlight the role of banks in contributing to achieving sustainable development." International Day of Banks 2025. Today in recognition of the significant potential of multilateral development banks and other international development banks in financing sustainable development and providing know-how; and also in recognition of the vital role of the banking systems in Member States in contributing to the improvement of the standard of living; we celebrate the banks. The global economy is facing heightened risks and financial volatility, with global growth likely to have peaked. Geopolitical factors, trade disputes, financial market volatility and non-economic factors, such as climate change risk further impeding growth, stability and development and worsening poverty, inequality and vulnerabilities. It is becoming increasingly urgent to address the systemic economic and financial risks and architectural gaps that threaten the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. To achieve sustainable development in particular eradicating poverty, reducing inequality and combating climate change we need to develop a long-term perspective, with Governments, the private sector and civil society to tackle global challenges. However, a more uncertain world favours more short-term behaviour. Therefore, private businesses, many of whom already face a range of short-term incentives, hesitate to commit funds to long-term investment projects. During periods of financial insecurity, households often focus on their immediate needs. And policymakers are often guided by short-term political cycles. Hence, effort is needed at all levels to ensure that strengthened collective action can help reduce global uncertainty, while financial innovation can generate significant progress across the 2030 Agenda and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #multilateralBanks, #Developmentbanks #4December, #InternationalDayofBanks, #bankingsystems, #digitalbanking.

EVENT: On December 4th, a webinar will be held to mark the International Day of Banks 2025. The United Nations General Assembly have invited all Member States, the organizations of the United Nations system, the Multilateral Development Banks and non-governmental organizations to observe the International Day, in a manner consistent with national priorities, in order to highlight the role of banks in contributing to achieving sustainable development; The UNGA invites the Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the Secretariat, the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and other relevant United Nations entities to facilitate the observance of the International Day of Banks in collaboration with other relevant organizations.

WEBINAR: Central banks independence in practice.

International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures 2025; December 4th.

FORUM: "The impact of Unilateral coercive measures.'' International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures 2025. Unilateral coercive measures and legislation are contrary to international law, including international human rights law and international humanitarian law, the Charter of the United Nations and the norms and principles governing peaceful relations among States, such as the Declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and Cooperation among States. Moreover, such measures can impact the full enjoyment of human rights set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in particular the rights of everyone to a standard of living adequate for their health and well-being, including food and medical care, housing and necessary social services. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #UNGA80,#coercivemeasures, #4december, #travelbans, #embargoes, #financialflows, #smartsanctions, #targetedsanctions, #frozenassets, #internationalrelations, #diplomacy.

EVENT: On December 4th, the United Nations General Assembly will organize the First edition of the International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures at UNHQ. Register to participate!

LIVESTREAM: Watch the General Assembly 80th session Informal meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures.

Speakers:

• PGA Annalena Baerbock
• USG Li Junhua to deliver the SG's remarks

Statements by Member States and Observers

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025; December 3rd.

FORUM: “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.” International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025. Across all regions, persons with disabilities and their households face challenges and barriers in the attainment of social development objectives:

• They are more likely to live in poverty;
• They continue to face discrimination in employment, receiving lower wages and being overrepresented in the informal sector;
• Social protection systems are uneven in coverage and inadequate when considering extra disability-related costs, frequently excluding persons with disabilities in the informal sector; and,
• Many persons with disabilities’ experiences within care and support systems continue to be marked by the denial of their dignity, autonomy and agency.

The three core themes of social development, i.e. poverty eradication; promotion of full and productive employment and decent work for all; and social integration, are interrelated, mutually reinforcing and require an enabling environment so as to be achieved simultaneously. The inclusion of persons with disabilities as both agents and beneficiaries of social development is indispensable. Disability inclusion in all aspects of social, economic, cultural and political life is therefore an imperative. The theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, “Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress”, builds on the reaffirmed commitment of world leaders gathered at the Second World Summit for Social Development to build a more just, inclusive, equitable and sustainable world and their understanding that advancing progress on social development depends on, and indeed necessitates, the inclusion of all segments of society. Let's discuss about How can we achieve disability inclusion?; Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #EveryoneIncluded, #3December, #DisabilityInclusionStrategy, #DisabilityDay, #IDPD on social medias.

 

EVENT: On December 3rd, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. (EST), the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) will commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.” The virtual event will gather Member States, UN entities, civil society, and experts to discuss inclusive social protection, assistive technology, awareness-raising, youth leadership, and access to care. 

10:00-10:30am: Opening Segment.

The opening segment will explore ways of achieving disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress through the framework of the Doha Political Declaration. Speakers will discuss how the Doha Political Declaration integrates disability inclusion and how it can assist Member States, as a framework replete with practical tools and solutions, to achieve social development for, with and by persons with disabilities.

10:30am-11:30am: Panel Discussion.

The online panel discussion will focus on key areas of disability inclusion and discuss enabling factors that are critical to achieving disability inclusion, thereby contributing to advancing progress in social development.

The following key points will structure the discussion and guide panellists when sharing their presentations and insights:

• Highlighting promising practices, practical examples and case studies;
• How the Doha Political Declaration and the Programme of Action for Social Development can be harnessed and utilised to accelerate momentum and progress towards disability inclusive societies and social progress; and
• Outlook on future developments and challenges to fostering disability inclusion as a means of advancing social progress and development.

We encourage our community to join this conversation virtually, which will also highlight how the Doha Political Declaration provides a framework for strengthening disability inclusion globally. For more information on the event, please read the Concept note. Subscription via zoom; Register to participate!

Statement of the U.N. Secretary-General on behalf the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025.

People with disabilities are transforming societies — leading innovation, influencing policy, and mobilizing for justice. Yet too often, they are denied a seat at the decision-making table.

The Doha Political Declaration, adopted at last month’s World Summit for Social Development, reaffirms a critical truth: there can be no sustainable development without the inclusion of people with disabilities.

People with disabilities drive progress that benefits us all. Their leadership has improved disaster preparedness, expanded inclusive education and employment, and ensured humanitarian responses reach those most at risk.

Many innovations that shape our daily lives — from text messaging to voice-activated technology — began as solutions developed by and for people with disabilities.

Yet systemic barriers persist: discrimination, poverty, and inaccessible services continue to limit the participation of the over one billion people with disabilities worldwide.

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us commit to working side-by-side with persons with disabilities in all their diversity, as equal partners.

When inclusion is real, everyone benefits. Together, we can build more accessible, resilient societies where all of us thrive.

António Guterres.

Statement from Dr Tedros, WHO Director-General on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025; December 3rd.

Every year, on 3 December, the world marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day is a powerful reminder that disability inclusion is not an add-on; it is a core principle of our mission to achieve of Health for All. For 1.3 billion persons with disabilities worldwide - 16% of the global population - this vision often remains a distant promise. Persons with disabilities continue to face profound inequities in access to quality and affordable services. Together, let us build inclusive and accessible health systems with, by and for persons with disabilities.

Dr Tedros; WHO Director-General.

PUBLICATION: The United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy provides the foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion through all pillars of the work of the United Nations. Through the Strategy, the United Nations system reaffirms that the full and complete realization of the human rights of all persons with disabilities is an inalienable, integral and indivisible part of all human rights and fundamental freedoms. In 2025, the Secretary-General submitted his sixth report on disability inclusion in the UN system. Building on six years of implementation, this year’s system-wide report reflects on the progress made to advance disability inclusion between 2019 to 2024, celebrates key achievements, and outlines priorities for accelerating system-wide change. The recommendations lay out the Secretary-General’s vision for the future of UNDIS, setting a higher standard and inspiring transformative, system-wide progress on disability inclusion.

ACTIONS: Disability inclusion youth leadership involves giving young people of all abilities opportunities to lead in their schools and communities to promote acceptance and social inclusion. Key programs and initiatives focus on creating inclusive environments through activities like forming "Unified Clubs," providing training, and empowering youth to be advocates for change. The goal is to build a generation of leaders who can create a more equitable and accepting world.

International Day of Abolition of Slavery 2025; December 2nd.

 FORUM:"Modern slavery is on the rise." International Day of Abolition of Slavery 2025. Modern slavery occurs in almost every country in the world, and cuts across ethnic, cultural and religious lines. More than half (52%) of all forced labour and a quarter of all forced marriages can be found in upper-middle income or high-income countries. ILO has adopted a legally binding Protocol designed to strengthen global efforts to eliminate forced labour, which entered into force in November 2016. Ending Modern Slavery requires bold action by frontline leaders, donors, governments and a movement of collaborators. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #ModernSlavery, #forcedlabour, #EndHumanTrafficking, #2December, #SlaveryAbolitionDay.

EVENT: Celebration of the 76th anniversary of the Convention for the suppression of the Traffic in persons. The ILO’s Protocol on Forced Labour could restore hope and freedom to millions of people trapped in modern slavery. But first it must be ratified by countries around the world. We have the chance to make history. On December 2nd, the United Nations General Assembly will hold a conference to mark the International Day of Abolition of Slavery 2025.

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery 2025; December 2nd.

Slavery is a horror from the history books – and a relentless contemporary crisis.

On the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, we remember past victims, especially the more than 15 million men, women and children across Africa who were seized, shackled and sold into bondage an ocean away – or perished en route.

We recall the painful scars their enslavement left on our societies, including structural inequalities and systemic injustices that have persisted for generations.

We rally to protect the estimated 50 million people now trapped in contemporary forms of slavery around the world, many of them women and children.

And we reiterate our appeal to prevent human rights violations like forced labour and forced marriage from claiming more victims.

Contemporary forms of slavery are perpetuated by crime rings that prey on people struggling to cope with extreme poverty, discrimination or environmental degradation – and by traffickers who exploit people fleeing armed conflict or migrating in search of safety and opportunity. It robs people of their rights, and their humanity.

Governments, businesses, civil society and trade unions must unite to end this crisis once and for all. And they must provide remedy and redress, with real access to justice, fair compensation, rehabilitation, restitution, and guarantees that victims and their families will not suffer again.

2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the Slavery Convention, when the international community made a bold commitment to end slavery in all its forms. We must act with the same resolve to eradicate contemporary forms of slavery. A world built on freedom, dignity and justice for all is not only possible – it is our shared responsibility.

United Nations Secretary-General.

PUBLICATION: General observation on the application of the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105).

At its 2023 session (November–December), the Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) adopted a general observation on the application of the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105). The text of this observation is reproduced in this brochure. As part of the regular supervisory system on the application of ILO international labour standards, the CEACR is an independent body whose function is to provide an impartial and technical assessment of the application of these standards by ILO Member States. The CEACR is composed of 20 experts, eminent jurists from different geographical regions, legal systems and cultures. In addition to the comments directly addressed to Governments, the CEACR may decide to publish the so-called "general observations” on certain issues concerning the application of a Convention.


The Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105), constitutes one of the ILO fundamental conventions. Its purpose is to supplement the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), by requiring States to suppress the imposition of any form of forced or compulsory labour in five situations specified in its Article 1: • as a means of political coercion or education or as a punishment for holding or expressing political views or views ideologically opposed to the established political, social or economic system; • as a method of mobilizing, and using labour for purposes of economic development; • as a means of labour discipline; • as a punishment for having participated in strikes; and • as a means of racial, social, national or religious discrimination.

The Convention was inspired by the work of the ILO–UN Ad-Hoc Committee on Forced Labour, which was established in 1951 to conduct an impartial inquiry into the existence of systems of forced labour. The report issued by the Ad-Hoc Committee in 1953 revealed the existence of two principal systems of forced labour imposed by the State that seriously threaten human rights in contravention with the United Nations Charter. The first was the use of forced labour as a means of political coercion or punishment for holding or expressing political views. The second was the use of forced labour for important economic purposes. The negotiation and further adoption of the Convention reflected the determination of the ILO to continue and intensify its efforts to abolish such practices that were so far not explicitly covered by Convention No. 29.


More than 65 years have passed since the adoption of Convention No. 105. Nevertheless, there are still a considerable number of cases that have been examined by the Committee where compulsory labour continues to be imposed by the State in the different situations prohibited by the Convention. This is particularly the case when compulsory labour is used for economic development purposes or as a punishment for the exercise of civil and political liberties, particularly freedom of expression and assembly. Given the considerable number of situations raised by the Committee with regard to the latter, the Committee considers that it is timely and appropriate to recall the nature and scope of the prohibitions established under Article 1(a) and (d) of the Convention, as well as the Committee’s requests addressed to governments in this regard. These prohibitions refer to the use of compulsory labour as “a means of political coercion or education, or as a punishment for holding or expressing political views or views ideologically opposed to the established political, social, or economic system” (paragraph (a)); and “as a punishment for having participated in strikes” (paragraph (d)). 2 It must be noted that in these two cases, forced labour usually takes the form of compulsory labour imposed in the context of a penal sanction pronounced for acts that relate to the exercise of civil liberties, including the right to freedom of expression and the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, both of which are recognized in the ILO Declaration of Philadelphia (1944) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948). The Committee wishes to recall from the outset that the Convention does not constitute a revision of Convention No. 29 and was adopted to reinforce and complement the protection offered by Convention No. 29. At the same time, these instruments are independent of each other, so that countries which have ratified both must ensure their cumulative application. This is particularly true for the exceptions laid down in Article 2(2) of Convention No. 29, which do not automatically apply in the five specific situations covered by Convention No. 105. Accordingly, while under Convention No. 29 work exacted as a consequence of a conviction in a court of law is an exception and does not constitute forced labour, Convention No. 105 prohibits the imposition of any form of compulsory labour in the situations mentioned under its Article 1, even if the work is imposed as a result of a conviction by a court of law. The Committee also considers necessary to clarify that, in the context of Convention No. 105, compulsory labour can take place either in the form of a sanction of imprisonment involving an obligation to work (compulsory prison labour) or as a specific sanction of community, public or correctional work to which the person has not given his or her consent. In this respect, one of the main questions analysed by the Committee when assessing compliance with the Convention by the country under examination is whether any of these forms of compulsory labour is contained in the national legislation.

World AIDS Day 2025; December 1st.

FORUM: "Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response." World AIDS Day 2025. Highlighting the impact of disruptions on the AIDS response, showcasing the resilience of countries and communities, and calling for global solidarity to end AIDS by 2030. On December 1st, speak up for health equity. Help us ensure that everyone, everywhere, has the right to quality healthcare services in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Worldaidsday, #1December on social medias.

EVENT: On December 1st, the WHO joins partners and communities to commemorate the World AIDS Day 2025, under the theme "Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response".

Join the global leaders, communities and citizen in Geneva to observe the Day.

The WHO, UNAIDS and The Global Fund are co-hosting a joint commemoration event at UNAIDS headquarters in Geneva. The event will showcase how the disruptions caused by the funding crisis are threatening to unravel decades of progress and will highlight examples of resilience from countries and communities, and make a strong and urgent call for global solidarity.

 

15:30–17:00 High-level panel discussions on understanding the global context and leadership moment; examining the lived realities of disruptions; and identifying the pathways forward through resilience, community leadership and innovation. Guests are invited to be seated by 15:20. Livestreaming begins at 15:30.

17:00–18:00 Reception

The Geneva event will be livestreamed around the world. It will be followed by a commemorative walk organized by the Group of people living with HIV in Geneva (PVA Genève).

Statement by the United Nations Secretary-General of the United Nations, on World AIDS Day 2025.

This World AIDS Day reminds us that we have the power to transform lives and futures, and end the AIDS epidemic once and for all. The progress we have made is undeniable. Since 2010, new infections have fallen by 40 per cent. AIDS-related deaths have declined by more than half. And access to treatment is better than ever before. But for many people around the world, the crisis continues. Millions still lack access to HIV prevention and treatment services because of who they are, where they live or the stigma they endure. Meanwhile, reduced resources and services are putting lives at risk and threatening hard-won gains. Ending AIDS means empowering communities, investing in prevention and expanding access to treatment for all people. It means uniting innovation with action, and ensuring new tools like injectables reach more people in need. At every step, it means grounding our work in human rights to ensure no one is left behind. Ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is within grasp. Let’s get the job done.

António Guterres, 

SPEAKERS ▪ H.E. Mr. Sérgio França Danese, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Brazil to the UN ▪ H.E. Mrs. Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Netherlands to the UN ▪ Mr. Jesús Aguais, President, Aid for AIDS ▪ Ms. Keren Dunaway, UNAIDS PCB NGO Delegate / LLAVES and ICW Global (online) ▪ Dr. César Nuñez, UNAIDS NYO Director, moderato

An event to commemorate the 2025 World AIDS Day. Related Document: Event Flyer.

Watch the 2025 World AIDS Day: Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response!

Meetings & Events

Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare 2025; November 30th.

FORUM: “Let’s Keep the memory of the victims alive.” Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare 2025. The global community must speak with one voice and reaffirm commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention, end impunity, and live up to the Pact for the Future’s pledge to a world free of these weapons. Last year, we achieved an important milestone: the destruction of the last chemical weapon from the stockpiles declared by countries that are part of the Chemical Weapons Convention. But the last decade has seen the reemergence of these weapons. Combined with rapid developments in science and technology, the threat grows greater still. This commemoration will provide an opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of chemical warfare, as well as to reaffirm the commitment of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) which consist to eliminate the threat of chemical weapons, thereby promote the goals of peace, security, and multilateralism. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #VictimsofChemicalwarfare, #30November,#ChemicalWarfareDay, #Chemicalweaponsconvention.

 

EVENTS: 100th anniversary of the 1925 Geneva Protocol and 28th anniversary of the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

 On November 30th, a homage to the memory of the victims and to uphold the dignity of survivors will be held by the United Nations General assembly first committee to commemorate the Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare 2025. This year; The OPCW member states, on November 29th will marked the 28th anniversary of the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention. With 193 States Parties, the Convention today embodies the international norm against the use of chemical weapons and remains the most successful disarmament treaty in the world.

Statement of the Secretary-General on the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Chemical Warfare 2025; November 30th.

Today, we pay tribute to the victims of chemical warfare over the decades.

We also remember the global efforts to end the use of these abhorrent tactics.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Geneva Protocol. A century ago, after witnessing the terrible impact of chemical weapons during World War I, the international community came together to ban their use in war.

The following decades saw remarkable success, including the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention — which now has nearly universal adherence.

Yet our work is not finished. The appalling use of chemical weapons has continued, and rapid developments in science and technology threaten to make their acquisition and use even easier. We cannot allow this to continue.

In the name of all victims of chemical warfare, I urge States to reaffirm their commitment to a world free of these repugnant weapons.

António Guterres; Secretary-General of the United Nations.

PLIGHT: Join the plight ''For a word “free from the threat of chemical weapons”.

PUBLICATION: The Future of the Chemical Weapons Convention. from the ARMS CONTROL  ASSOCIATION.

Research & Reports


In July 2023, the world reached a landmark achievement in the history of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs): the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) confirmed the verified and irreversible destruction of all known chemical weapons stockpiles. 26 years after the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) entered into force, it had achieved one of its major goals, becoming the first multilateral disarmament treaty to effectively eliminate an entire class of weapons.

This was not the first time that the CWC led the way in disarmament. With 193 member states, the CWC is the most universal of multilateral disarmament treaties. In 2013, the OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its “extensive efforts to eliminate chemical weapons.”

The CWC was opened for signature in January 1993 and officially entered into force on 29 April 1997, after the 65th state party adhered to the convention. The treaty is thorough in its attempt to rid the world of chemical weapons: it outlaws the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, and retention of chemical weapons. The goal of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to create a word “free from the threat of chemical weapons” is one step closer now that all declared stockpiles have been destroyed. This latest achievement offered a glimmer of hope in the arms control world amidst rising tensions among nuclear armed powers.

LIVESTREAM: CWC at 28.