Global Day of Parents 2025; June 1st.

FORUM: "Reflecting on Parenting." Global Day of Parents 2025. Throughout June, United Nations Children’s Fund, Family organizations; Associations of parents will be encompassing a broad range of topics from the scientific foundations of play to engaging activities for the entire family. In recognition of the increasing prevalence of online play, they will also provide parents with comprehensive guides and detailed explanations to ensure their children's online experiences are both safe and positive. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #Globaldayofparents, #1June, #myparents, #HonorYourParents.

EVENTS: On Sunday, June 1st, to mark the Global Day of Parents 2025, a webinar will be held to thanks parents and to explore the opportunity to support parents and caregivers of children 0-6 years old. Parents are aware of the importance of education, so they are the first to make the child go to school. A child with good parenting rarely fails in life. Parents act as the first family of a child until he is married. In many people’s success, the role of parents is the key. You can even notice many world leaders and philosophers describing the role of their parents in their life. Register to participate!

PUBLICATIONS: How are U.S. parents raising their children these days, and how does their approach compare with the way their own parents raised them? Read the Approach to Parenting!

The study on The effect of positive parenting on adolescent life satisfaction explores the impact of positive parenting on adolescents' life satisfaction and the mediating role of parent-adolescent attachment. Read the full study!

Positive parenting emphasizes building a strong, healthy relationship between parent and child. It provides research-backed solutions to daily parenting. Read the full report!

Parenting education promotes the use of positive parenting practices, such as using positive language, planned discipline, and family routines. Read the full report on the benefits of Parenting education!

“A good parenting style is that parents should keep eyes on their children…they should understand the mindset of children. Read the full report on the Influence of Parenting Style on Children's Behaviour!

Current findings on parental influences provide more so- phisticated and less deterministic explanations than did earlier theory and research on parenting. Read the Contemporary Research on Parenting!

World No-Tobacco Day 2025; May 31st.

FORUM: “Unmasking the appeal: Exposing industry tactics on tobacco and nicotine products.’’ World No-Tobacco Day 2025. This year’s WNTD campaign aims to reveal the strategies employed by the tobacco and nicotine industries to make their harmful products enticing, particularly to young people. By exposing these tactics, WHO seeks to drive awareness, advocate for stronger policies, including a ban on flavours that make tobacco and nicotine products more appealing, and protect public health. One of the primary public health challenges today is the attractiveness of tobacco, nicotine, and related products, particularly to young audiences. The industry consistently tries to find ways to make these products appealing, adding flavours and other agents that change their smell, taste, or appearance. These additives are designed to mask the harshness of tobacco, thereby increasing its palatability, particularly among young people. Other tactics include (1) Glamorized marketing: Sleek designs, attractive colours, and alluring flavours are strategically used to attract a younger demographic, including through digital media channels. (2) Deceptive designs: Some products mimic sweets, candies, and even cartoon characters—items children naturally find appealing. (3) Coolants and additives: These can make the experience smoother, increasing the likelihood of continued use and reducing the chance of quitting. These tactics can contribute to early initiation of smoking or nicotine use, with potential lifelong addiction and health consequences. By making these products more attractive, the industry not only boosts their immediate consumer base but also makes quitting harder, prolonging exposure to harmful substances. The Goals 2025 WNTD campaign aims to Raise awareness by Informing the public on how industry tactics manipulate the appearance and appeal of tobacco and nicotine products; To Advocate for policy change (Measures to ban flavours and additives that make these products more appealing; the Complete bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, including on digital platforms; the regulation of the design of the products and their packages to make them less appealing; and to Reduce demand by Exposing these tactics aims to reduce demand, particularly among youth, ultimately lowering their exposure to nicotine and tobacco products. By unmasking these strategies, the campaign will to shine a light on the ways the industry markets addiction, driving demand reduction efforts and supporting long-term public health. Join the campaign to raise awareness and advocate for a healthier, tobacco-free future this World No Tobacco Day. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #WorldNoTobaccoDay; #31May; #TobaccoControl.

EVENTS: The World No-Tobacco Day 2025 will be observed during a webinar held from the WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland on May 31st. In 2025 WHO and public health champions from across the globe will come together for WNTD to raise awareness about the harmful tactics of the tobacco industry. The online event, will explore the marketing tricks, and design features and strategies that make nicotine and tobacco products appealing, including flavours, which continue to lure children and young people into nicotine addiction. Featuring global health leaders, government officials, youth advocates, and researchers, this one-line event will reveal how flavours, additives, as well as product packaging and other design elements, are engineered by tobacco and nicotine industries to appeal to new users and keep existing ones — and what countries are doing to push back. The Speakers will include the WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, the Head of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, Dr Adriana Blanco Marquizo, leading researchers from South Africa, Yale University, and the Netherlands, tobacco control advocates, including the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids and government officials. Media are welcome to attend and report on this timely, solution-focused dialogue that calls for decisive action to protect future generations. Watch recorded event!

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. Register to participate!

AWARDS: World No Tobacco Day 2025 awards; The WNTD is also an opportunity to recognize outstanding contributions to tobacco control, and WHO/Europe is inviting nominations for the WNTD awards from countries across the WHO European Region. All nominations must be submitted by Friday, 31 January 2025, at 17:00 hrs (GMT). There will be a maximum of six World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) awards per WHO region. Two of the awardees might be granted special recognition by means of a WHO Director-General Special Recognition Award. Researchers, activists, civil society organizations, and journalism organizations from Canada, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, the United States, and Uruguay, as well as government agencies from Brazil, have been recognized with World Health Organization (WHO) World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2025 Awards at the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. WHO headquarters will announce the awardees on WHO Tobacco Free Initiative’s website 5 days before 31 May. Learn more about the Call for nominations for the WHO World No Tobacco Day 2025 awards.

STATEMENTS: Message from PAHO/WHO Regional Director; Dr Jarbas Barbosa, on World No Tobacco Day 2025; May 31st.

ACTIONS: WHO calls for urgent action to ban flavoured tobacco and nicotine products

International Day of Potato 2025; May 30th.

FORUM: “Shaping history, feeding the future.” International Day of Potato 2025. The theme of the 2nd observance will acknowledge the potato’s deep historical and cultural significance and its evolving role in today's global agrifood systems. As 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. During the day, we spotlight the potato, Solanum tuberosum (L.) – a crop regularly consumed by billions of people. Potatoes are a key crop across diverse farming systems globally, ranging from smallholders producing diverse heirloom varieties by hand in the Andes, to vast commercial, mechanized farms in different continents. Potatoes contribute to the food security and nutrition as well as and livelihoods and employment of people in rural and urban areas the world over. 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.

Today Potato farmers use sustainable growing techniques to ensure healthy crops generation after generation. The soil is cared for year-round and involves the addition of compost, rotation of crops, and growing cover crops. This approach reduces erosion and adds nutrients to the soil naturally. Great care is taken to conserve water and reduce evaporation with constant irrigation monitoring. Potatoes are sustainable for the environment, people and communities. Potato production has a lower carbon footprint and requires less land and water than many other fruits, vegetables, and cereals. Potatoes are also affordable, widely available, and prevalent in many diets around the world. Potatoes can help feed people across our growing planet in a healthy and sustainable way.

EVENTS: On May 30th; To mark the International Day of Potato 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the International Potato Center (CIP) will host a hybrid event entitled “Shaping history, feeding the future.”; From its domestication in the Andes, to its global spread through the Columbian Exchange and its involvement in key historical events such as the Irish Potato Famine, the potato has shaped civilizations and diets across continents over several millennia. Occurring during FAO’s 80th anniversary year, this second observance will highlight the potato’s contribution to food security, nutrition and livelihoods especially for small-scale farmers. It will also encourage reflections on the crop's production constraints, the need to conserve their diversity, and the desired actions to strengthen its value chain for a more sustainable future. Register to participate!

LIVESTREAM: The Theme "Shaping history, feeding the future" of the second International Day of Potato acknowledges the potato’s deep historical and cultural significance and it's evolving role in today's global agrifood systems. From its origins in the Andes to its global spread, the potato has shaped diets and societies. The day highlights its impact on food security, nutrition and rural livelihoods, while calling for action to address the Potato production challenges, preserve diversity and strengthen it's value chains. Watch the livestream!

PUBLICATIONS: As a global campaign to raise awareness and inspire action has just kicked off, have a look at this selection of FAO publications below to gain better insights into this global common food ahead of the celebration.

• Hidden costs of potato and rice production.
• Climate risk management for the roots and tubers sectors in Africa.
• Strengthening financial services for roots and tubers value chains development in Africa.
• Strengthening linkages between small actors and buyers in the roots and tubers sector in Africa: Cameroon; Uganda.
• Improving access to quality seed potatoes
• Sustainable Approaches to Agro-Processing and Value Chain Development of Root and Tuber Crops in the Caribbean.
• Seed Potato Multiplication to Improve Food Security of The People of Paekam County, Ryanggang Province, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
• International Year of the Potato 2008. New light on a hidden treasure..
• Sustainable potato production.
• Conservation and sustainable use of potato germplasm in the rural communities of Andahuaylas.
• Strengthening potato value chains.
• Peruvian “guardians” lead Potato Park to a secure future.
• Costa Rica’s local potato species solve global problems.

International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025; May 29th.

FORUM: “The future of peacekeeping.” International Day of the United Nations Peacekeepers 2025. Of the 26 peacekeepers who lost their lives in 2024, five were killed in hostile incidents. We mourn their loss, alongside their families and colleagues. The sacrifice of all 4,430 peacekeepers who have given their lives across the decades will never be forgotten. Their legacy inspires us to continue all efforts in the pursuit of peace and progress for all peoples. Despite these challenges, peacekeepers persevere, performing a wide range of taskings, including ensuring the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, deterring violence, supporting locally-led conflict resolution, political settlements, elections, and restoring state authority.In the next decade the world could be transformed by climate-related crises, lethal and disruptive technologies, political discord and polarization, and new non-state armed groups. Civil strife could emerge in states currently regarded as stable.Conflicts could spread across borders, and wars may be fought in virtual space without the firing of a single bullet. The Future of Peacekeeping Operations (FOPO) project attempts to imagine what the missions of the future might look like. Begun in 2020, FOPO has drawn on broad and inclusive consultations with UN and non-UN stakeholders, including interviews with representatives of Member States, academia, civil society, regional organizations and current and former peacekeeping practitioners. In addition, a series of think piece papers were commissioned. Themes explored in the project centered around four broad areas: a) the geostrategic environment and political processes, b) the changing conflict environment, c) the international responses to conflict and d) Peacekeeping policy approaches. The Project interlocutors also identified some key trends affecting conflict such as: The competition versus cooperation; The protracted, internationalized armed conflicts; The blurred lines between war and peace; The weakening of universalist norms; The climate change; and the socio-economic inequality. While geopolitical polarisation will likely make it difficult to achieve consensus around new peacekeeping missions, the UN’s peace and security pillar may still be asked to respond through new forms of flexible and adaptative deployments, as well as enhanced advisory and thematic support functions. Moreover, in response to erosion of normative consensus, the Secretariat may need to step up efforts to build support for unified and principled approaches to peace, and to affirm the UN’s norms and values to which all Member States have committed. Socioeconomic exclusion and inequality are likely to remain drivers of civil instability and potential conflict The strengths of peacekeeping operations may need to be more closely integrated into efforts that support the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals. 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 2025. On Thursday, May 29th 2025, 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. Register to participate; 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, 29 May 2025.

List of Personnel to be Posthumously Awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal on 29 May 2025

Wreath Laying Ceremony: The commemorations are held at the U.N. Headquarters, United Nations offices and at different U.N. Peacekeeping missions.

Follow the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal Awards Ceremony on UN Web TV (11:00 am, 29 May 2025)

Here is the List of Personnel to be Posthumously Awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal.

On May 27, 2025; The General Assembly have organized an Informal meeting of the 79th plenary session to hear a briefing on the review on the future of all forms of United Nations peace operations; Briefing by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations and Rosemary A. DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs. Reac Concept note and Watch the informal meeting of the plenary to hear a briefing on the review on the future of all forms of United Nations peace operations - General Assembly, 79th session!

Held from 13 to 14 May 2025, the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial served as a high-level political forum to discuss the future of peacekeeping and for Member States to express and demonstrate their political support. It provided a platform for delegations to announce substantial pledges in support of closing capability gaps and adapting peace operations to better respond to existing challenges and new realities, in line with the pledging guide. The UN Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025 contributed to increased safety and security for peacekeepers deployed, and fostering overall mission effectiveness. For their pledges, member states were encouraged to arrange partnerships where appropriate, for instance in training and capacity-building. The Co-chairs of the Peacekeeping Ministerial process were Bangladesh, Canada, Ethiopia, Ghana, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Uruguay, United Kingdom, United States and the United Nations Secretariat. Watch the livestream of the Day 1 (High Level Session 1 - High Level Session 2 - High Level Session 3) and the Livestream of the Day 2 - Opening and Pledging Session 1 - Pledging Session 2).

Three key events were held in the lead up to the 2025 Berlin UN Peacekeeping Ministerial.

10-11 December 2024 – Preparatory meeting on Capacity-building, Partnerships and the Future of Peacekeeping, co-hosted by Japan, the UK and Uruguay in Montevideo.
Concept note, agenda, logistics note and summary of the meeting.


4-5 February 2025 – Preparatory meeting on the Future of Peacekeeping, New Models and Related Capabilities, co-hosted by Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Netherlands and USA in Jakarta.
Concept note, agenda and logistics note.


15-16 April 2025 – Preparatory meeting, titled Towards a Safer and More Effective Peacekeeping: Use of Technology and Integrated Approach, co-hosted by Pakistan and the Republic of Korea in Islamabad.
Concept note, agenda, logistics note and summary of the meeting.

PUBLICATIONS: Study on the future of peacekeeping, new models and related capabilities.

At the request of Germany and the other co-chairs of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial process, DPO commissioned the study on “The Future of Peacekeeping, New Models, and Related Capabilities”. Launched in the C34 on 1 November 2024, the study was intended to serve as food for thought leading into the 2025 Ministerial. The study’s vision for UN peacekeeping was a politically focused, people-centered, modular tool that can unite the Security Council around effective multilateral responses to a broad range of threats and challenges. The study offered 30 plausible models to inform thinking related to future UN missions.

Policy Papers: Peacekeeping is one of the most effective tools available to the United Nations in the promotion and maintenance of international peace and security.

• Scenarios for the future of peace operations
• Report: Civil society workshop on the Future of Peacekeeping Operations
• The Future of Peace Operations: A Scenario Analysis, 2020-2030
• The Future of UN Peace Operations in a Changing Conflict Environment
• Estimating Future Conflict Risks and Conflict Prevention Implications by 2030
• Redefining a UN Peace Doctrine to Avoid Regime Protection Operations
• The Future of UN Peacekeeping and Parallel Operations
• The Future of Police in UN Peace Operations
• The Future of the Protection of Civilians in UN Peacekeeping Operations
• Reflections on Strengthening the Role of Peacekeeping in Sustaining Peace from a Security Sector Reform Perspective

STATEMENTS:

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025; May 29th.

With unwavering courage, United Nations peacekeepers step into danger – to help protect those who need protection, preserve peace, and restore hope in some of the world’s most challenging contexts.

Today, we honour their service.

We draw inspiration from their resilience, dedication and courage.

And we remember all the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace.

More than 4,400 peacekeepers have died in service – 57 last year alone.

We will never forget them – and we will carry their work forward.

The focus of this year’s International Day of Peacekeepers is on “the future of peacekeeping”.

Today, peacekeepers face increasingly complex situations in an increasingly complex world:

Growing polarization and division around the globe …

Operations made even more dangerous from a multiplicity of threats such as terrorism…

Targeting of peacekeepers through deadly misinformation…

And challenges that transcend borders – from the climate crisis to transnational crime.

As we look ahead, it is essential that peacekeepers have what they need to do their jobs.

This is the shared responsibility of the United Nations and Member States.

The Pact for the Future – adopted last year at the United Nations – includes a commitment to adapt peacekeeping to our changing world.

This challenge is also an opportunity:

To analyse what makes peacekeeping operations successful…

To better understand what hinders them…

And to help design new future-focused models that are anchored in political solutions, adequately resourced, and have mandates that are achievable, with clear exit strategies.

The first step – reviewing our peace operations – is underway.

And together, we will keep pushing this vital effort forward.

Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations -- and the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges.

António Guterres;

 “UN peacekeepers bring stability to chaos. It's an investment in ending violence.” Read the UN Secretary-General - Remarks to the Ministerial Meeting on the Future of Peacekeeping and the Remarks by Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General.

LIVESTREAM: High-Level Event to mark the International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025.

 

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to preside over a wreath laying ceremony at the Peacekeepers' Memorial site in the North Lawn.

For nearly 80 years, United Nations peacekeepers have delivered tangible change to communities worldwide. From Liberia and Namibia to Cambodia, Sierra Leone and Timor-Leste, their presence has been life-saving and transformative in some of the most volatile political and security contexts, guiding countries from conflict towards lasting peace.

Observed under the theme "The Future of Peacekeeping" this year's International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last nearly eight decades. It encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a more equal, just and sustainable world.

Watch the (Tape feed) Wreath Laying Ceremony - International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025!

High-level Events

 

 The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to preside over Dag Hammarskjold medal, UN Woman Police Officer and UN Military Gender Advocates of the Year ceremony.

To mark the International Day of UN Peacekeepers at UN Headquarters, the UN Secretary-General 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 and the UN Woman Police Officer of the Year awards.

For 77 years, United Nations peacekeepers have worked to protect people, preserve peace, and provide hope 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 68,000 peacekeepers serve in 11 missions deployed in hotspots around the world.

Observed under the theme "The Future of Peacekeeping" this year's International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last seven decades and our commitment to adapt peacekeeping to our changing world.

Related Documents: United Nations Medals.

Watch the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, UN Woman Police Officer of the Year and UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year ceremonies - International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025!

High-level Events

World Football Day 2025; May 25th.

FORUM: ”Play Football!.” World Football Day 2025. 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 will celebrate the World Football Day 2025 at UNHQ; This year the Event will be co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Bahrain, Libya and Tajikistan. The United Nations General Assembly invites all member states, organizations of the UN system, international organizations, academia, civil society and the private sector to observe World Football Day in line with national priorities "and to disseminate the advantages of football for all, including through educational and public awareness-raising activities. 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: High-Level event at UNHQ.

ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Africa Day 2025, May 25th.

FORUM: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.” Africa Day 2025. This year’s observance will honor the memory of those who suffered under slavery and colonialism, while asserting the right of Africa and its diaspora to truth, justice, and restoration. History rarely remembers those who waited quietly. In Africa, it is those who dare to act, to resist, to lead, and to dream aloud who have shaped the continent’s most defining moments. As we mark Africa Day 2025, under the African Union’s theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”, we are reminded that justice is not a destination—It is a continuous demand for truth, for dignity, and for leadership that reflects the realities of our people. Now more than ever, that demand must be inclusive. The Africa We Want, as envisioned in Africa’s Agenda 2063, cannot be built without the full power of its majority: its women and youth. Yet these very groups— the bearers of innovation and agents of transformation—remain disproportionately underrepresented, underfunded, and undervalued. The commemoration seeks to Promote the AU 2025 Theme of the Year, positioning reparations and historical redress within AU frameworks for peacebuilding, development, and global advocacy; To Facilitate high-level dialogue on innovative and implementable policy pathways for achieving reparatory justice for Africans and people of African descent; To Celebrate Africa’s diverse cultural heritage as both a repository of memory and a dynamic driver of healing, innovation, and sustainable development; To Foster intergenerational and diaspora dialogues that bridge past struggles with future aspirations, allowing youth, artists, civil society, and thought leaders to co-create inclusive narratives of justice, identity, and transformation; To Reaffirm Member States’ commitment to Pan-African solidarity, resilience, and the cultural and intellectual revival of the continent. This Africa Day let us move beyond celebration. Let us commit to reclamation of history, of voice, and of leadership. Let us tell the stories of, not just of what we have survived, but also of what we are building— a continent where girls can lead revolutions, where youth can set national agendas, and where justice is not abstract—but actionable. We are not waiting to be included. We are here to transform!

Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #25May, #AfricaDay, #YearofReparations, #Agenda2063.

EVENTS: On Saturday May 24th; starting at 10:00 am. (GMT+3) at the African Union headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The African Union will be celebrating Africa Day 2025 and its 62nd anniversary marking the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) (1963-2025) now the African Union (AU). The Commemoration is organized by the African Union Commission through its Directorate of Citizens and Diaspora (CIDO), in collaboration with AU Member States, AU Organs and Regional Economic Communities (RECs). Under the theme “Revisiting Our History, Shaping Our Future”.The commemorative event will bring together, among others: Representatives from AU Member State, the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC); the African Union Commission, AU Organs and AU Specialized Agencies; Regional Economic Communities (RECs); Women and Youth representatives; Civil Society Organisations; Development Partners; UN Agencies; Diaspora community and media representatives. Journalists are invited to be part of the commemoration and cover the Event on Saturday 24th May 2025 starting from 10H00am at the AU Headquarters. The day will also be marked with Exhibition, entertainment and cultural showcases; Media interviews and a Group photo. For further information please contact us, odaia@africa-union.org; Register to participate and Watch the livestream!

Agenda programme of the 2025 AFRICA DAY 

Commemoration on Saturday, 24 MAY 2025 at the African Union Headquarters.

 09:45 – 10:00 Arrival and Anthems 

• Arrival of dignitaries

 • National Anthem of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and AU Anthem o Director of Protocol 

10:00 – 11:15 Official Opening Ceremony 

• Welcome remarks o Master of Ceremonies 

• Special Tribute: “The Journey to the African Union Theme of the Year” video montage 

• Statement by African Union Staff Association o Mr. Nouhou Thiam 

• Statement by the Chairperson of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent o H.E Ambassador Martin Kimani,

 • Statement by UNESCO o Dr. Rita Bissoonauth, Head of the UNESCO Liaison Office to the AUC and ECA and Rep. to Ethiopia (TBC)

 • Statement by the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in Ethiopia o H.E Youssouf Mondoha Assoumani, Ambassador of the Union of Comoros to Ethiopia & Permanent Representative to the AU. • Statement by the African Union Champion on Advancing the Cause of Justice and Payment of Reparations to Africans o H.E John Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana 

• Statement by the President of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia o H.E. Taye Atske Selassie. 

• Statement by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission o H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf 

• Statement by the Chairperson of the African Union o H.E. João Goncalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola. 

11:15 - 11:20 Family Photo 

11:20 – 11:30 Coffee Break 

AFRICAN UNION UNION AFRICAINE UNIÃO AFRICANA UMOJA WA AFRIKA UNIÓN AFRICANA Bazaar 

11:30 – 11:35 Welcoming Remarks and Opening of the Bazaar Master of Ceremonies 

11: 35 - 17:00 Living Heritage Exhibition and Cultural Showcase 

• Country pavilions, traditional performances, art displays, experience

 • Diaspora exhibits on restitution and healing by UNESCO Cultural Parade & Exhibition Walkthrough 

• Parade of nations Each Member State showcases traditional attire, flag, and music. Taste of Africa & Musical Finale

 • Culinary journey through African heritage dishes 

• Afro-fusion performances and Pan-African fashion pop-up show 

• Music and dance performances from different Member States and AU regional representations

 • Poetry and spoken word by African artists and diaspora groups.

STATEMENTS:

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the occasion of Africa Day 2025, May 25th.

On Africa Day, we celebrate a continent rich in heritage, vibrant in diversity and remarkable in its contributions to our global community.

Africa is home to the world’s youngest population and fast becoming a powerhouse in renewable energy and technological innovation.

Yet, Africa bears the scars of historic injustices. The legacies of slavery, colonialism, apartheid, and systemic racism still cast long shadows, and entrenched inequalities affect Africans and people of African descent to this day.

This year’s theme calls for confronting these shameful legacies. I renew my call for reparatory justice that is grounded in accountability, reconciliation and equity.

The Pact for the Future, adopted in September, urges greater African representation – particularly at the Security Council – and reforms to the international financial system to support African countries with financing and debt relief. The Pact, through the Global Digital Compact, also seeks to close the digital divide and promote the responsible use of AI technologies.

At a time when barriers are being erected, Africa leads by example. The African Continental Free Trade Area promises to usher in a new era of economic integration, opening the door to jobs, growth and prosperity.

At the same time, we must support Africa’s efforts to expand its clean-energy sector, and ensure that the minerals that are critical to the renewables revolution benefit Africans first and most.

Throughout, we will continue standing with Africa to silence the guns, tackle terrorism, and safeguard human rights for all.

On this Africa Day, let us recommit to not only addressing past wrongs, but also to building a sustainable future for the people of Africa grounded in peace, dignity, and opportunity for all.

United Nations Secretary-General.

OTHER STATEMENTS: Read the statements made by the Chairperson of the African Union, the Chairperson of the AU Commission (AUC), Heads of State and Government, Representative of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Ethiopia, the Chairperson of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent the President of the African Union Staff Association among others.

• Message of Ms. Mpemba, until recently the AU Special Envoy on Youth, is now the Special Advisor on Youth and Women to African Union Chairperson.
• Africa Day 2025 Message of President of Ghana H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
• Africa Day 2025 Message of President of Angola, H.E. João Lourenço.
• Message of the AUC Chairperson on the occasion of Africa Day, 25 May, 2025.

International Day of the Markhor 2025; May 24th.

FORUM: “Enhancing international and regional cooperation in support of efforts to conserve the markhor.“ International Day of the Markhor 2025. 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 find 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 May 24th, 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 International Day of the Markhor 2025. 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. We invite all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, namely the UN Environment, other international and regional organizations, civil society, non-governmental organizations, individuals and other relevant stakeholders to join the celebration. Register to Participate!

International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2025; May 23rd.

FORUM: “Her health, her right: Shaping a future without fistula.” International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2025. It is one of the most devastating childbirth injuries – and it is entirely preventable. Obstetric fistula is a hole between the birth canal and bladder or rectum or both, caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without access to timely, quality medical treatment. It often leads to severe and chronic health problems, depression and social isolation. Persistent social and economic inequities and inadequate sexual and reproductive healthcare drive fistula cases by limiting access to life-saving and life-restoring care, especially in marginalized communities. In 90 % of cases, the baby dies. Some 500,000 women and girls live with fistula today. The fact that women still suffer from this condition is a global injustice that must end. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #EndFistula, #EndFistulaDay; #23May.

EVENT: With in mind, the theme for the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula on May 23rd this year “Her health, her right: Shaping a future without fistula.”, We will find the ways to create effective, rights-based and culturally appropriate solutions, we must build on the voices and experiences of women and girls, especially fistula survivors. By putting women and girls at the heart of stronger health systems and by bridging health and social gaps, we could end fistula by 2030. It would require a comprehensive approach to strengthening sexual, reproductive, maternal and newborn health services – including investing in robust health systems, as well as ensuring access to midwives and timely emergency obstetric care, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. The condition is treatable, with the right resources: A full recovery requires comprehensive rehabilitation and psychosocial and economic support. UNFPA supported nearly 150,000 surgical repairs for fistula between 2003 and 2024 and has helped integrate 15,000 women and girls back into society – but this is just a fraction of those who need it. Register to attend!

WEBINAR: On  Thursday 8 May 2025, From: 13:00-14:30 UTC a webinar  entitled "Closing the obstetric fistula treatment gap." was held by the FIGO to mark the International Obstetric Fistula Day 2025.


Obstetric fistula is a devastating childbirth injury caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without timely access to high-quality medical care. The resulting hole between the birth canal and bladder and/or rectum leads to serious long-term problems with leaking urine, faeces or both. If not surgically repaired, the injury can leave affected women and girls incontinent for the rest of their lives, resulting in chronic medical problems, depression, social isolation and deepening poverty.

Most obstetric fistulas can be repaired via surgery but unfortunately, there are very few trained fistula surgeons. With the significant human suffering that comes with this condition, it is alarming that approximately only one in 50 affected women have access to treatment. Obstetric fistula is a sign of global inequality - the world's health and social systems are failing the poorest and most disadvantaged women and girls.

Obstetric fistula primarily affects individuals in low-resource countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and certain parts of Asia. FIGO's next regional webinar will bring together leading fistula surgeons and advocates to dive deeper into this issue in the African context. Join us, as speakers discuss epidemiology, clinical aspects and capacity building to address the global shortage of fistula specialists.

Addressing obstetric fistula is an integral part of FIGO's programme work, with the Fistula Surgery Training Initiative. This webinar will spotlight this ambitious multi-year programme, which trains local fistula surgeons and multidisciplinary teams to provide life-transforming care to women affected by this debilitating condition.

This webinar is led by the FIGO Trustee for Africa, Prof Blami Dao, in collaboration with the African Federation of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (AFOG), Société Africaine de Gynécologie Obstétrique (SAGO), FIGO Committee on Obstetric Fistula, Focus Fistula, Fistula Foundation and the FIGO Fistula Surgery Training Initiative.

Language: English with live interpretation in French, Spanish and Portuguese.
Moderator:

Prof Blami Dao, FIGO Trustee for Africa & Eastern Mediterranean, Burkina Faso
Speakers:

Epidemiology of obstetric fistula in Africa

Dr Weston Khisa, African Federation of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (AFOG), Kenya

Incontinence after fistula surgery

Dr Igor Vaz, Focus Fistula, Mozambique

Training OBGYN residents in obstetric fistula care.

Prof Pierre Marie Tebeu, Société Africaine de Gynécologie-Obstétrique (SAGO), Cameroon.

Power of partnership: Building networks to expand fistula care.

Ms Lindsey Pollaczek, Fistula Foundation, United States.

FIGO Fistula Surgery Training Initiative - A trainer perspective.

Dr Peter Majinge, FIGO Committee on Obstetric Fistula, Tanzania.

Register to participate!

STATEMENT: “No woman or girl should have to endure the agony of obstetric fistula,” says UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem. “We must ensure that every woman and girl – no matter who she is or where she lives – can access the high-quality sexual and reproductive health services that are her right, and scale up proven interventions, including fistula repair surgery, that support survivors. Together we can restore dignity and hope.”