International Day for Judicial Well-being 2025; July 25th.

FORUM: “Judicial well-being matters for the quality of justice and public trust.” International Day for Judicial Well-being 2025. Over the past decade, a growing global conversation has emerged around these concerns, driven by ground-breaking research and proactive judicial leadership. Empirical research conducted across various jurisdictions, vividly underscores the magnitude of judicial stress. The 2019 National Judicial Stress and Resiliency Survey, conducted in the United States among 1,034 judges, paints a sobering picture. Using a custom-built Sources of Stress Scale, the study identified that nearly 80% of judges experience stress from the gravity of their decisions, followed closely by heavy caseloads (73.2%), unprepared attorneys (67.6%), and self-represented litigants (62.5%)—all of which highlight the systemic pressures inherent in judicial work. Problematic alcohol use among judges, while not widespread, remains a notable concern too. The same Survey found that 9.5% of judicial respondents fell into higher-risk categories on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), with 0.5% at possible dependence. Though most judges reported moderate or low-risk alcohol use, a small group disclosed patterns of binge drinking and associated functional impairments, such as memory blackouts, guilt, or failing to meet responsibilities. Evidence-based research consistently shows that the isolation inherent in the judicial role is a universal factor that undermines judicial well-being. This isolation can significantly affect mental health, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression, which in turn can impair judicial performance and decision-making. Both physical and emotional isolation continue to present serious barriers to judicial well-being, underscoring the need for targeted strategies to break this harmful cycle. Join us to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by judicial officers and to emphasize the need for a supportive and inclusive judicial culture. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #25July, #JudicialLeader, #JudicialWellbeing, #judicialstress, #mentalhealth, #secondarytrauma.

EVENTS: On July 25th, an event will be held to mark the International Day for Judicial Well-being 2025. The event brings together judicial leaders and policymakers to develop concrete tools and strategies for integrating well-being into court systems worldwide. The United Nations General Assembly encourages member states, UN agencies, judicial institutions, and other stakeholders to observe the day through various activities, including public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and wellness programs. Register to participate!

PUBLICATIONS: Explore the United Nations International Law Documentation.

ACTIONS: Prioritize Judicial Well-being, Empower Judges, Enhance the Quality of Justice.

International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent 2025; July 25th.

FORUM: “Rising Together- Women and Girls of African Descent Leading with Strength.” International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent 2025. The woman and girl child of African descent embodies strength, resilience, and untapped potential, yet they remain among the most marginalized groups globally due to the intersection of racial, gender, and socio-economic discrimination. From limited access to quality education and healthcare to underrepresentation in political and professional spaces, they often navigate systemic barriers that hinder their development and violate their rights. Despite these challenges, they continue to rise—leading movements, excelling in academics and careers, advocating for justice, and breaking generational cycles of poverty and exclusion. Their lived experiences highlight not only the impact of injustice but also the transformative power of opportunity and equity. Empowering women and girls of African descent requires a comprehensive approach grounded in human rights, cultural affirmation, and inclusive policy-making. Governments, institutions, and communities must commit to dismantling discriminatory structures and investing in initiatives that ensure equal access to education, healthcare, justice, and leadership. It is only through intentional action—such as collecting disaggregated data, removing stereotypes, and implementing targeted programmes—that we can foster environments where women and girls of African descent thrive. In doing so, we not only uphold their dignity but also strengthen societies through their contributions, creativity, and leadership. Women and girls of African descent continue to face multiple and overlapping forms of discrimination, manifesting in higher rates of poverty (SDG 1), barriers to education (SDG 4), limited access to quality healthcare (SDG 3), and underrepresentation in decision-making (SDG 5, SDG 10, SDG 16). Despite these injustices, their resilience shines through. From grassroots organizing to professional excellence, their contributions are shaping communities, economies, and cultures. They are not just beneficiaries of development, they are leaders of it. The UN Human Rights notes that while women and girls of African descent have been at the forefront of movements for justice and equality, their contributions are often overlooked, even as they continue to face deep disparities in healthcare, education, employment, and the criminal justice system. The UN Human Rights considers it essential that anti-discrimination laws are adopted and enforced, and that gender-based approaches are fully integrated into all relevant programmes, using disaggregated data to ensure policies reflect the lived realities of those most affected. The Office supports this work by partnering with civil society, conducting research, and providing guidance to states. Through its Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent, the Office has trained over 160 change-makers from 50 countries, 72% of whom are women, to advocate for equality at national and international levels. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #25july, #AfricanDescent, #womenandgirls, #RisingTogether, #Leadinfgwithstrengh, #WomenandGirlsofAfricanDescent.

EVENTS: Interactive multi-stakeholder hearing on the occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

On July 25th, An Opening segment and Interactive panel discussion will be held to mark the International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent 2025. During the celebration participants will acknowledge their rich history, culture, and ongoing fight against discrimination based on gender and race. The celebration is a call to move beyond statements toward bold, transformative action, including investment in education, dismantling stereotypes, and ensuring leadership representation. Register to participate!

On July 24th, at UNHQ; The President of the General Assembly, with the support of UN-Women, will organize and preside over an interactive multi-stakeholder hearing on the occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, pursuant to General Assembly resolution 79/288, entitled "Scope, modalities, format and organization of the high-level meeting on the thirtieth anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women", as part of the preparations for the high level meeting of the General Assembly.
Guiding questions

1. What is one concrete way your work is helping to deliver gender equality outcomes and contribute to broader SDG goals in your community, country or sector?
2. What gaps do you see?
3. How are partnerships and collective action enabling you to scale your impact?
4. What is one action that can be taken to accelerate your efforts towards 2030?

Watch the Multi-stakeholder hearing on Beijing+30!

Statement of the UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk on the International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent 2025.

On this first international day of women and girls of African descent, we honor the courage, creativity, and contributions of this important community. And we call urgently and insistently for the advancements of their human rights. Women of African descent have been presidents, poets, physicists, and peacebuilders. and I've had the honor of meeting many of them throughout my work with the United Nations. The work of women of African descent sustains communities and economies. They are guardians of culture and traditional knowledge and they have led transformative movements against enslavement, colonialism and apartheid. In many countries, women of African descent are among the most consistent supporters of justice, of equality, and sustainable development. But women and girls of African descent are among the most marginalized groups in society due to centuries of entrenched oppression and exclusion. Women and girls of African descent face significant barriers to quality education and job opportunities in many countries around the world. They're disproportionately exposed to gender-based violence and sexual exploitation and the maternal mortality rates are up to five times higher than those of other groups. Women of African descent are largely excluded from political participation and leadership positions. They are more likely to face discrimination throughout the criminal justice system and to struggle for accountability on behalf of loved ones lost to police violence and racism. A woman of African descent may also be a migrant or have a disability or live in poverty or a combination of these compounding the discrimination they face.

We need to do so much better for girls and women of African descent, not only to realize their full human rights, but to create a safer, more equal and just world for everyone. Change begins with ensuring full respect for the human rights of all. and states need to adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and policies based on data that is disaggregated by race or ethnic origin, sex, age, and other factors. We need to increase the participation and representation of women of African descent through special measures including quotas if necessary. My office supports a fellowship program that promotes equality for people of African descent at international and regional levels. Since 2011, this has helped 160 people from 50 countries, nearly three quarters of whom were women of African descent. More broadly, societies need to overcome the root causes of systemic racism and misogyny, including the legacies of colonialism, enslavement, and patriarchy.
Together, let's make justice and equality a reality for all women and girls of African descent.

Volker Türk, UN Human Rights Chief.

Statement by UN Human Rights Mechanisms ahead of the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent 2025.

“This 25 July 2025, we mark the first commemoration of the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, proclaimed by the General Assembly in August 2024. This momentous occasion serves as a call to prevent and eliminate racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance against women and girls of African descent, to honour their profound contributions throughout history, and, together, and to reaffirm our solidarity with their ongoing struggles as we enter the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025-2034).

We recall that in the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, States acknowledged the distinct and compounded manifestations of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, women and girls face, and called for gender-sensitive approaches in addressing racism and for the empowerment and protection of women and girls.

Throughout the centuries and despite facing oppression and marginalization, women and girls of African descent have contributed to build and shape their societies and communities: from science to literature, from politics to the arts, from sports to culture. They have sustained their communities through leadership, creativity, resilience, and care. They have stood up firmly as the guardians and defenders of the cultural memory, traditions and the legacy of people of African descent, transmitting them from generation to generation including during enslavement and colonialism. Tirelessly, sometimes anonymously and silently, they have preserved the social fabric of their communities and societies from destruction.

Regrettably, these contributions have gone largely underrecognized, undermined, overlooked, untold and unknown.

During the first International Decade for People of African Descent, significant progress has nevertheless been made in the recognition and empowerment of women and girls of African descent. In some regions, some women of African descent have reached the highest levels of political representation, accessing spaces of power and decision-making positions from which they had been systematically excluded for a long time. Their struggles have been at the forefront of racial justice movements and instrumental in advancing a deeper understanding of intersectional discrimination.

However, such historic steps forward should not mask the major, unaddressed challenges that hinder the full enjoyment of the human rights of women and girls of African descent in all areas of life, largely due to entrenched stereotypes, prejudices, and intersecting forms of discrimination.

Women and girls of African descent continue to face multiple forms of violence, online and offline. In political spheres, those holding positions of power have been often targeted by hate speech, harassment, were victims of misogynoir, and their capacities undermined, challenged or questioned. Migrant women of African descent are exposed to racialized abuse, sexual violence, unsafe deportations, and at risk of trafficking or re-exploitation. In some instances, they have been separated from their children in violation of their right to family life. In conflict-related situations, women and girls of African descent have paid the highest price of life and abuses, often with impunity.

The disproportionate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on women and girls of African descent brought to the surface the inequalities and obstacles they face in accessing adequate health care services. Barriers to sexual and reproductive health rights and services remain severe and deeply entrenched. They still experience disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality, early pregnancy, and obstetric violence, which reflect the structural racial biases embedded in health care systems. Racial profiling and mass incarceration gravely impact their lives, perpetuating patterns of discrimination in the criminal justice system.

Across employment, housing, and access to social services, women and girls of African descent continue to fall behind in key socio-economic indicators in the societies where they live. They are employed in less skilled jobs and receive low wages compared to the rest of the population. High school dropout rates among girls of African descent and the poor quality of education impede their access to the labour market and jeopardize their advancement. Structural barriers also persist in the realms of climate and digital justice, where their needs and voices are often overlooked.

Confronting these injustices necessitates the regular collection and publication of reliable data disaggregated by race and ethnicity, gender and other factors to unveil the realities of women and girls of African descent, and to inform targeted policies and strategies to remedy the situation.

Against this backdrop, we urge States to seize the opportunity of this International Day to prioritize reparatory measures that address the lasting impacts of enslavement and colonialism endured by women and girls of African descent. This includes acknowledging and redressing historical, gendered forms of racial violence, such as sexual exploitation and abuse, and family separation.

We call on States and all stakeholders to implement the various recommendations we have issued notably by guaranteeing access to health, education, justice, housing, and decent work for women and girls of African descent including through temporary special measures aimed at achieving concrete and sustainable progress. We also urge States to implement their human rights obligations, the DDPA commitments and the relevant SDGs, fully and effectively, to addressing the multiple and intersecting forms of racism and racial discrimination women and girls of African descent experience and to promoting their advancement.

Advancing towards truly transformative justice requires placing the voices, experiences, and leadership of women and girls of African descent at the centre of ambitious political agendas, as well as making visible their role of preserving the history and culture of people of African descent.”

UN Human Rights Mechanisms.

The experts:Mr. Michał Balcerzak, Chairperson, Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Mr. Joel M. Modiri, Chairperson, Group of Independent Eminent Experts on the Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action
Amb. James Ndirangu Waweru, Chairperson-Rapporteur, Intergovernmental Working Group on the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action
Ms. Tracie L. Keesee and Mr. Víctor Manuel Rodríguez Rescia, Experts of the International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the context of Law Enforcement
Mr. Martin Kimani, Chairperson, Permanent Forum on People of African Descent
Ms. Ashwini K.P., Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance
Ms. Bina D’Costa, Chairperson, Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent

World Drowning Prevention Day 2025; July 25th.

FORUM: “Drowning prevention through shared experiences.” World Drowning Prevention Day 2025. Water is an integral part of our lives. It gives us life, but it can also take it away. While no one is immune, the stark differences between drowning rates in the highest risk countries and lowest risk countries show that drowning is not inevitable. Currently over 90% of global drowning occurs in low- and middle-income countries. And in high-income countries, drowning rates among certain age groups and among minority ethnic groups are also very high and need attention. Inform those you engage with during World Drowning Prevention Day – whatever the nature of drowning in your setting – that anyone can drown, and no one should. Drowning has claimed over 3 million lives in the past decade - mostly children and youth - demanding urgent action now. The progress we’ve made in drowning prevention is encouraging, but the truth is that: Every hour of every day, more than 30 people are still losing their lives to drowning. That’s over 300,000 people a year. This World Drowning Prevention Day, we’re sharing powerful stories about change-makers from around the world who are helping to save lives and prevent lifelong disabilities caused by drowning. From teaching communities about water safety to developing national drowning prevention plans, their combined efforts have helped to keep people safe around water. Join the voices around the world who are helping to raise awareness about drowning prevention. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #keeppeoplesafearoundwater, #DrowningPrevention, #25July.

EVENTS: On July 25th, Stay tuned to Watch the World Drowning Prevention Day 2025 celebrations in Australia marking the 25+ years of water safety strategy, in Brazil, How surfers are saving life, in Bangladesh, How Bangladesh’s Anchals are preventing childhood drowning, in Finland, making winter safer for children and their families, in Uganda, from testimony to strategy. Together, let’s make every 25 July an international opportunity to create change locally, nationally, regionally and globally on this preventable cause of mortality. Any one can drown, no one should.


SURVEY: Drowning is preventable, and is not something for which society should be prepared to adopt a fatalistic attitude. We know it is preventable using solutions that are effective, cost-effective, and scalable. Have your say on WHO campaigns; Help WHO improve the impact of our public health campaigns by responding to this survey. Take the survey!


PUBLICATIONS: According to the WHO Global status report on drowning prevention 2024, there has been a global decrease in drowning deaths since 2000. But... Over 300,000 lives are still lost each year...

CAMPAIGN: Join the 2025 Campaign “Drowning prevention through shared experiences”; Use the World Drowning Prevention Day Toolkit to help you capture your drowning prevention story, the Taking Part Guide to help inspire and plan activities and events. Get the communication materials!

A step-by-step guide on how to share content in support of the campaign.

International Moon Day 2025; July 20th.

FORUM: ‘‘The first human footprints on the moon.’’ International Moon Day 2025. For thousands of years, human civilizations have looked up to the sky pondering the origin and mysteries of the Moon – our only natural satellite. Ground-based observations enabled by the invention of the first telescopes opened a new chapter in our understanding of our celestial companion. With the birth of space activities, the Moon became the ultimate destination of countless missions, including crewed flights that brought the first human footprints to another place in the universe. As Moon exploration efforts continue taking shape with ambitious plans, this global celebration will serve not only as a reminder of success in the past, but as an annual testimony to future endeavours. The International Moon Day is a good opportunity to educate the public, promote and raise awareness on the status and prospects for humanity. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #InternationalMoonDay, #lunarbeauty, #20july, #firstlandingonmoon, #Themoon, #spacescience, #moonphases, #sustainablemoonexploration.

EVENTS: On Sunday July 20th, the United Nations General Assembly with the United Nations Office of the Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) will host a virtual event to celebrate the International Moon Day 2025 and the 56 years since Apollo 11 moon landing at the United Nations Headquarters. Join us to mark the anniversary of the first landing by humans on the Moon as part of the Apollo 11 lunar mission. Register to participate!

On July 20th, 2025 In the UEA, the global celebration will take place at the University of Dubai. This flagship event entitled “One Moon, One Vision, One Future.” organized by the Moon Village Association in partnership with the University of Dubai, will bring together international space leaders, astronauts, students, and innovators to inspire dialogue and collaboration around lunar exploration. 

Join us for the global celebration of International Moon Day 2025, taking place at the University of Dubai on July 20th. This flagship event, organized by the Moon Village Association in partnership with the University of Dubai, will bring together international space leaders, astronauts, students, and innovators to inspire dialogue and collaboration around lunar exploration.

Agenda Programme

Master of Ceremonies: Ms. Sara Alessa
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM | Opening 

- Dr. Eesa Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai

- Dr. Giuseppe Reibaldi, President of the Moon Village Association
Greetings by

- Mr. Driss El Hadani, Deputy Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
- Prof. Wu Weiren, Director General, Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL)
- Dr. Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
- Prof. Teodoro Valente, President, Italian Space Agency (ASI)
9:30 AM- 10:20 AM | Key Notes

- Dr. Nasr Alsahaf, Chairman, International Moon Day (IMD)
- HE Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of Youth, Astronaut, (TBC)
- Mr. John C. Mankins, CEO, Mankins Space Technologies Inc.
- Mr. Atsushi Saiki, Executive Fellow, ispace, inc.
10:20 AM – 10:50 AM | Emirates Lunar Mission
Session Speaker: Eng. Amna Khalifa Busoud; Rover Design and Mobility Lead, Emirates Lunar Mission
10:50 AM – 11:10 AM | Networking and Refreshments Break

Exhibition Area: Displays from space organizations (MBRSC, UAE Space Agency, private space startups)
Student project displays showcasing lunar concepts, models, and innovations (this has to be announced and worked out in advance and presented during the celebration)
11:10 M – 11:20 AM | “Lunar Governance – industry perspective” – Fireside chat with Mr. Mike Gold and Dr. Giuseppe Reibaldi

Discussion on Lunar Governance between Mr. Mike Gold, President, Civil and International Space at Redwire and Dr. Giuseppe Reibaldi, President, Moon Village Association.
11:20 AM – 12:00 PM | Expert Panel Session 1: “Moonshots: Innovation & Lunar Markets”

Panel of space experts, entrepreneurs and industry discussing innovation opportunities, space startups, and commercial programs opening new lunar markets

Moderator: 

Dr. Saeed Aldhaheri, Director, Center of Future Studies

Mr. Satoru Kurosu, Yokogawa Electric & MVA
Ms. Fatima Al Khateri, Director of Sharjah Astronomical Planetarium Department at SAASST
Mr. Serdar Baycan, Solar Space Technologies

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM | Student Recognition & Awards Ceremony
Celebrate winners of competitions, award certificates, trophies, and announce special recognitions.

Short speech by distinguished guests acknowledging students’ creativity and enthusiasm.
UAE Mission Moonlight 2050 Challenge: Students must design a moonbase for UAE settlement on the moon by 2050, using digital arts and generative AI tools. The challenge will be announced before the event and winners will be invited to come present their designs and will be recognized during the event.
Presentation and Recognizing the UAE team winner of the NASA International Space Apps Challenge

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Lunch Break
1:30 PM – 2:15 PM | Panel Session 2: Lunar Governance: Challenges and Opportunities

This panel explores the challenges and opportunities for coordination and cooperation of lunar activities, including the Artemis and ILRS programmes. Considering the increasing number of stakeholders involved in lunar missions and the lack of definition of the existing space treaties, new way to define lunar governance are required at the level of the United Nations.

Moderator: 

- Mr. Driss El Hadani, Deputy Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

- Prof. Scott Pace, Professor of Practice of International Affairs, George Washington University
- Ms. Ulpia-Elena Botezatu, Co-Chair, UN Action Team on Lunar Consultation Activities (ATLAC)
- Eng. Hoor Al Mazmi, Senior Researcher, Space Science, UAE Space Agency
- Prof. Ilias Fernini, College of Science, UAE University

2:15 PM – 2:30 PM | Closing Remarks by Dr. Eesa Bastaki and Dr. Giuseppe Reibaldi

Announcements
Final thoughts and invitation to participants for future involvement in space initiatives.
Networking and photo opportunities with guests, speakers, astronauts, and student participants.

LIVESTREAM: July 20th conference in University of Dubai.

The Main Event will be Live Streamed. The Live Stream starts at 9:00 AM Dubai Time.

Explore the agenda programme and Watch the livestream!

Worldwide Activities: 
July 20 to July 24, starting at 17:00 ending at 18:30 will be held the IMD-25 Moon Day and Moon Workshop at the Al-Qebliya School Cultural Center and Kuwait National Planetarium, Kuwait Al Ma'arri St, Kuwait City.

On July 21th, from 14:00 - 17:00 will be held the International Moon Day Space Exploration workshop in Nanjing ILEWG NUAA at the NUAA Nanjing Aerospace University, China Nanjing.

On July 21th, from 10:00 - 10:30 will be held a virtual event to mark the International Moon Day from ExoSpaceHab Express Moon Base from France - Online

On July 21th, from 10:30 - 13:00; you are invited to participate to the panel discussion entitled ‘‘Understanding Moon through Demonstrations’ at Regional Science Centre and Planetarium, Calicut, Kerala, India Jafferkhan Colony, Calicut.

 Explore the Map and full list of upcoming events.

World Chess Day 2025, July 20th.

FORUM: ‘‘Play chess regularly.” World Chess Day 2025. Chess is more than a game—it’s a tool for healing, growth, and rebuilding. Throughout July, we’re sharing inspiring stories and best practices that show how chess can support recovery from addiction, cognitive challenges, and serious illness. Last year, we have celebrated a century since the establishment of the Fédération Internationale des Échecs – FIDE, which took place here, in Paris, in 1924. During the past 101 years, FIDE has sought to safeguard, develop, and promote chess. From standardizing the game rules and tournament regulations to introducing the rating system, awarding titles, and organizing new events and competitions, FIDE has always been at the forefront of the chess world. As we look towards the future, we should reflect on the remarkable journey of chess over the past years, celebrated globally, we honor the famous players and coaches and the remarkable individuals who helped build FIDE and unite the chess world. Thanks to their efforts, chess is now played by millions of people worldwide – from enthusiasts to professionals, both online and over the board, all sharing a passion for the game. The achievements of the past century inspire us to aim higher and push harder to ensure that chess continues to thrive for generations to come. Please share this call to action with your regional federations and chess clubs, and encourage them to share their experience on social media using the hashtags: #WorldChessDay, #Chess, #20july, so their actions can inspire others.

EVENTS: To mark the World Chess Day 2025, the FIDE organizes online and hybrid events and implements new technological solutions. In 2023 chess became part of the Olympic Esports Series. The International Chess Federation has come a long way since its first steps a century ago. For July 20th, we’ve planned a few special activities to make the day a little bit more special—and you can join in on the fun; Read on to find out what we’ve got planned. The Chess Olympiad is one of FIDE's flagship events. The Olympiad is a team competition where countries are represented by their four best players. The Olympiad reached record participation, with 186 nations represented in the open competition, plus 160 more in the Women's Olympiad. International Chess Day Activities for 2025 are the 24-Hour Marathon Arena; The Community Streamer Program; The 2025 Bullet Chess Championship (BCC), The Chessable Festable Festival. Explore all activities and the calendar of events!

On July 25th, 2025, starting at 18:00 CET. The Special author session: A Wizard’s Guide to Family Recovery; Join us for a powerful conversation with Lance Wilson, author and mental health advocate. Lance will share how chess became a source of strength and meaning during his personal journey—and how it helped shape his book’s message of hope and healing. The Key topics are: How chess supported his recovery from trauma; The Key takeaways from his book, grounded in lived experience and How the game can guide us through life’s toughest moments. Whether you’re a coach, therapist, educator, or simply curious, these sessions offer new tools, powerful stories, and renewed hope. We look forward to welcoming you. Register to participate!

STATEMENT: Read the full Message from Mr. Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President on International Chess Day 2025.

My dear chess friends, to you, to all who love our game, happy International Chess Day, today we celebrate it as we continue to develop chess all across the world. And I hope that both today and every day you'll get a chance to play and also to show how to play to your friends, to those who didn't enter our chess community yet. So let's do it together and let's do it again every day. This day I would like to stress that we have been committed fully to bring chess uh all across the globe to all corners of our beautiful world from big tournaments where top masters, top grand masters play for the prizes and we continue to increase the prices. We continue to have more and more events. But this year is special. We dedicated it to social chess, to the impact that chess can make in all area of our social life, in all our communities. Bring chess to the classrooms, bring chess to community halls, to refugee camps, even to prison cells everywhere. We show what impact can the 64 square board make on people, how we can improve lives, how we can make sure that people learn something from chess and become better. So at these days I call you to continue those initiatives not only this year but for all the future years to come. Again happy international chess day and let's do all those things together. On this special day, we wish a very Happy International Chess Day to all who love and live the game — and calls on the world to keep playing, teaching, and growing our global chess family every day.

Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President.

Nelson Mandela International Day 2025; July 18th.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMEMORATIONS

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

Programme:

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

Related Sites and Documents: More information about the Mandela Prize

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

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

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

International Criminal Justice Day 2025; July 17th.

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

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

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

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

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

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

World Youth Skills Day 2025; July 15th.

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

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

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

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

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

Skills in Action Photo Competition 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

António Guterres

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