International Day of Women In Diplomacy; June 24th.

FORUM: "Women in Diplomacy: Influence in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding." International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2026. Despite their undeniable contributions, women continue to face barriers and inequalities in leadership and decision-making spaces, including in diplomacy. The representation of women in key diplomatic roles, such as negotiators and mediators in peace processes, remains low. The observance seeks to address those challenges and to emphasize the importance of women’s leadership in political decision-making processes. The third annual commemorative event to mark the International Day of Women in Diplomacy at the United Nations Headquarters in New York will bring together high-level government officials, diplomats, senior representatives of the UN system and other stakeholders. The event aims to facilitate interactive discussions and exchanges on the contributions, challenges and opportunities for women in diplomacy to catalyze change and transformation in multilateral affairs. Building on last year’s commemoration, the event will feature an informal discussion on ways to strengthen women’s leadership in multilateral organizations. Over the past year, women took the helm for the first time of several organizations in the UN system (IOM, ITU, WMO). At the same time, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions in all fields of diplomacy. According to a recent report published by GWL Voices, women lead only one third of multilateral organizations. Over the past 80 years, only 4 women served as Presidents of the General Assembly and only one out of Main Committee chairs is a woman during the current session of the Assembly. Furthermore, no woman has ever been appointed as Secretary-General of the United Nations. Against this background, the discussion will explore challenges and opportunities to strengthen women’s leadership in the multilateral arena. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #womendiplomats, #24June, #Diplomacy, #WomeninDiplomacy.

EVENT: On Wednesday June 24th; A virtual event marking the Second World Forum on Women in Diplomacy will be held from 10:00 to 15:00 pm EST on the theme "Women in Diplomacy: Influence in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding". The Forum's structure comprises a high-level opening segment that sets the thematic and global context, followed by three main discussion sessions: Session 1: will present global evidence and case studies demonstrating the impact of women's participation in peace processes. Session 2: will examine pathways to move from symbolic inclusion to structural leadership through policy reforms, national action plans, and strengthened mediation networks. Session 3: will explore emerging peace and security challenges and include an intergenerational dialogue with women diplomats and peacebuilders. The Forum will conclude with a summary of key messages, the presentation of outcome document, and commitments to follow-up action. Register to participate!

Second World Forum on Women in Diplomacy on the theme "Women in Diplomacy: Influence in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding".

The Forum's structure comprises a high-level opening segment that sets the thematic and global context, followed by three main discussion sessions:

Session 1: will present global evidence and case studies demonstrating the impact of women's participation in peace processes.
Session 2: will examine pathways to move from symbolic inclusion to structural leadership through policy reforms, national action plans, and strengthened mediation
networks.
Session 3: will explore emerging peace and security challenges and include an intergenerational dialogue with women diplomats and peacebuilders.


The Forum will conclude with a summary of key messages, the presentation of
outcome document, and commitments to follow-up action.


I. Background and Rationale 

The 21st century is marked by a proliferation of complex and protracted conflicts, geopolitical fragmentation, and unprecedented humanitarian crises. Despite the global recognition of the Women, Peace and Security agenda, anchored in UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and its subsequent resolutions, women remain significantly underrepresented in formal peace negotiations, mediation teams, ceasefire monitoring, and high-level diplomatic decision-making. Council on Foreign Relations studies consistently demonstrate that peace agreements are 35% more likely to last at least 15 years when women are meaningfully involved in the negotiation process. Evidence also shows that women mediators and negotiators broaden peace agendas to include community needs, social cohesion, justice, and long-term recovery, elements essential for sustainable peace. Yet, in major peace processes between 1992 and 2019, women constituted only 13% of negotiators, 6% of mediators, and 6% of signatories (the UN Secretary-General’s Report on Women, Peace and Security, 2023). The absence of women in peace and security decision-making is particularly alarming given the current global landscape of escalating conflicts, rising displacement, and the erosion of multilateral trust. These challenges require diplomatic leadership that is inclusive, representative, and capable of bridging divides. Women diplomats bring diverse perspectives, negotiation styles, and priorities that strengthen conflict resolution and peacebuilding outcomes. At the same time, the root causes of increasing multidimensional fragility need to be addressed consistently, whereby the rising water and climate-related insecurity constitutes an important entry point for building community resilience and stability. The Cansu Global Intergovernmental Initiative presents an example of complementing water diplomacy efforts with community resilience to manage, absorb and mitigate water and climate related risks. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 16 on peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, underscores the need for inclusive institutions and participatory decision-making. The Pact for the Future (Section II: Peace and Security, Paragraphs 29-33), the New Agenda for Peace (Section: Preventing Conflict and Sustaining Peace, Paragraphs 57-60), and the Doha Programme of Action for Least Developed Countries (Section: Peace and Security, Paragraphs 161-165) further reaffirm that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation at all levels. Against this backdrop, and building on RASIT’s pioneering approach to diplomacy -broadening its meaning since 1968 beyond traditional statecraft to encompass Science Diplomacy, Education and Cultural Exchange, and the Culture for Peace - the second edition of the World Forum on Women in Diplomacy, is convened to advance a focused global dialogue on transforming women’s participation in diplomacy and conflict prevention from symbolic representation to structural influence and measurable delivery. 

II. Objectives 

1. Assess structural barriers that limit women’s leadership in diplomacy, mediation, and peace and security decision-making, and identify reforms needed to transform participation from symbolic to structural and delivery-oriented. 2. Highlight evidence-based research and case studies demonstrating the impact of women’s meaningful participation on the durability, inclusivity, and implementation of peace agreements, including through conflict prevention initiatives. 3. Identify strategies to institutionalize women’s leadership at national, regional, and multilateral levels, including strengthening pipelines for women’s advancement to senior diplomatic and peacebuilding roles. 4. Promote cross-regional dialogue among diplomats, policymakers, researchers, and civil society to advance implementation and accountability for UNSCR 1325 and subsequent Women, Peace and Security commitments. 5. Develop actionable, resourced, and measurable recommendations to ensure women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in mediation, negotiation, and peacebuilding processes. 6. Acknowledge and position women’s community development initiatives as core contributions to achieve social stability and combat multidimensional fragility.


III. Expected Outcomes


1. A set of actionable, evidence-based recommendations to strengthen women’s leadership in diplomacy and peace and security processes.
2. Enhanced visibility of women diplomats and their contributions to multilateralism and conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
3. Strengthened partnerships among Member States, UN entities, academic institutions, and civil society.
4. A Forum Outcome Document outlining commitments to advance structural, accountable implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.
5. Inputs to ongoing UN processes, including SDG 16 implementation, the New Agenda for Peace, and Women, Peace, and Security reporting mechanisms.


IV. Format and Structure


The Forum’s structure comprises a high-level opening segment that sets the thematic and global context, followed by three main discussion sessions: Session 1: will present global evidence and case studies demonstrating the impact of women’s participation in peace processes. Session 2: will examine pathways to move from symbolic inclusion to structural leadership through policy reforms, national action plans, and strengthened mediation networks. Session 3: will explore emerging peace and security challenges and include an intergenerational dialogue with women diplomats and peacebuilders. The Forum will conclude with a summary of key messages, the presentation of outcome document, and commitments to follow-up action.


AGENDA PROGRAMME


10.00-10.30: Opening Segment Women at the Frontlines of Diplomacy for Peace and Security. 

The Opening Segment brings together dignitaries, senior officials, Permanent Representatives, and institutional leaders to reaffirm the centrality of women’s leadership in shaping peaceful, secure, and resilient societies. Framing the Forum’s objectives, the segment positions women diplomats as indispensable actors in advancing multilateral cooperation and safeguarding global peace and security. In their statements, dignitaries are encouraged to highlight the evidence demonstrating that women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in diplomacy strengthens conflict prevention, enhances negotiation outcomes, and contributes to durable peace, as well as to underscore the need for renewed commitments to institutional reforms, capacity‑building, and accountability. Welcoming Remarks: • H.E. Dr. Helena Dalli, Former EU Commissioner for Equality, Chair, World Forum on Women in Diplomacy. Opening Statement:

10.30 – 11.30: Session 1: Evidence and Impact: Why Women Matter in Peace Processes. 

This session presents the latest global data and research demonstrating the measurable impact of women’s participation in peace processes. Through comparative studies, case examples, and evidence-based analysis, speakers will highlight how women’s leadership in mediation and conflict resolution contributes to more inclusive negotiations and significantly increases the likelihood of achieving durable peace agreements. The discussion will underscore the strategic importance of women’s full and meaningful engagement across all stages of peace processes, grounding the Forum’s deliberations in rigorous, policy-relevant evidence. Moderator: Distinguished Panelists.

11.30 – 12.30: Session 2: From Symbolic to Structural: Institutionalizing Women in Diplomacy Leadership.

This session examines the reforms and systemic shifts required to embed women’s leadership at the core of diplomatic institutions. Discussions will focus on policy reforms, national action plans, and the transformation of diplomatic services to ensure women in diplomacy achieve full, equal, and sustained participation in leadership roles. The session will also highlight women’s contributions to diplomacy and mediation, emphasizing mechanisms that strengthen support, visibility, and accountability across the international community, including within bodies such as the United Nations Security Council. In addressing emerging challenges and opportunities, the session will consider how to advance women’s diplomatic leadership within multilateralism to deliver long-lasting peace and security. Moderator: Distinguished Panelists:

12.30 – 13.30: Session 3: The Future of Multilateralism: Women in Diplomacy for Peace and Security. This session explores the critical role of women diplomats in shaping a more resilient and responsive multilateral system amid emerging global threats. Discussions will examine women’s leadership in addressing climate-related insecurity, digital conflict, misinformation, and growing geopolitical fragmentation. Speakers will highlight how women advance cooperative, culturally informed, and society-responsive diplomacy that strengthens trust and multilateral engagement. The session will also underscore women’s contributions to justice, accountability, and community resilience, emphasizing their essential role in building a more inclusive and effective global peace and security architecture. Moderator: Distinguished Panelists:

13.30-14.15: Closing Segment Commitments for the Present: Women Strengthening Peace, Security, and Multilateral Action 

 The Closing Session brings the Forum’s deliberations together with a concise summary of key messages emerging from the discussions. Participants will be presented with the draft Outcome Document, reflecting shared priorities and proposed actions to advance women’s leadership of all abilities across diplomacy, peace, and security. The segment concludes with a collective commitment to follow-up measures, reinforcing the Forum’s role in driving sustained progress and strengthening women’s contributions to the future of multilateral cooperation. Moderator: Respondent: UN Member States Commitments.

Related Sites and Documents: Concept Note.

Watch the 2nd World Forum on Women in Diplomacy!

International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2026; June 21st.

FORUM: "Summer solstice begins in the northern hemisphere and the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere." International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2026. The Solstices play a significant role in strengthening the ties among peoples on the basis of mutual respect and the ideals of peace and good-neighborliness. All the United Nations, in particular its relevant specialized agencies, funds and programmes, mainly the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and interested international and regional organizations, within existing resources, and non-governmental organizations to participate in events organized by Member States, indigenous peoples and communities in which the solstice is celebrated and to raise awareness in this regard. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #summersolstice, #wintersolstice, #21june, #solstices, #northernhemisphere, #southernhemisphere, #equinox, #Internationaldayofthecelebrationofthesolstice.

EVENTS: Today we celebrate the International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2026 and the Northern Hemisphere's summer solstice. The June solstice arrives on June 21st, at 8:25 UTC (3:25 a.m. CDT). For the Northern Hemisphere, it's the longest day and shortest night. For the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the shortest day and longest night. South of the Equator, this same moment marks the unofficial beginning of winter. Solstices occur at the same time around the world, but their local times vary with time zones. Join the Celebration of the summer and winter Solstices in the both hemispheres.

Watch the Winter Solstice in Sydney; Exactly 9 hours and 53 minutes of daylight, making it the perfect time to catch early sunsets or plan a stargazing night to view the Sydney Observatory night sky

In Australia, that mid-winter day is known as the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. The tilt of the earth's axis will mean the southern hemisphere will be angled furthest away from the sun at: 12:42 pm AEST (Queensland, NSW, ACT, Victoria and Tasmania). Sydney's winter solstice occurs on Sunday, June 21st, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. The sun rises around 6:59 am and sets at 4:53 pm, providing just under 10 hours of daylight. It also signifies the astronomical start of winter and the turning point where days slowly begin to get longer. 

• The Pocket City Farms in Camperdown hosts a popular community solstice festival featuring markets, workshops, and a lantern parade.
• Sydney's Homeless Persons' Memorial Service takes place on this day at Martin Place to honor those experiencing homelessness.
• Specialized cultural events, like winter solstice choir performances, often take place at historical venues like Elizabeth Bay House.

On June 20th and June 21st; Watch the summer solstice LIVE from Stonehenge, Wherever you are in the world, don't miss a moment of this special occasion. 

Summer Solstice 2026: Sunrise Live from Stonehenge.

Watch the sun rise over the Stone Circle as people celebrate. Our stream begins at 04:00 BST, with sunrise occurring at 04:52 BST (23:52 EDT).

Summer Solstice 2026: Sunset Live from Stonehenge.

Our cameras will capture views of Stonehenge as the sun sets this summer solstice, allowing you to connect with this spiritual place from the comfort of your own home. Our stream begins at 20:00 BST, with sunset occurring at 21:26 BST (16:26 EDT).

International Day of Yoga 2026; June 21st.

FORUM: ''Yoga for Healthy Ageing.'' International Day of Yoga 2026. This year marks the 12th International Day of Yoga with the theme “ Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, which emphasizes the importance of Yoga for all ages. Yoga can be a valuable practice for healthy aging because it supports many of the abilities that help people stay active, independent, and engaged as they grow older. By combining gentle movement, stretching, breathing exercises, and mindfulness, yoga can help improve balance, flexibility, strength, and mobility, while also supporting mental well-being and stress management. Because yoga can be adapted to different fitness levels and health conditions, it offers an accessible way for many older adults to maintain their physical and emotional health. These benefits support several goals of the WHO Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), including promoting independence, reducing fall risk, enhancing quality of life, and encouraging person-centered approaches to health and well-being. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #Yogaforhealthyageing, #Yoga, #21June, #YogaDay, #HealthyAgeing, #IDY2026   .

EVENT: On June 18th, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. (EDT), the 12th International Yoga Day event was held at the UN Headquarters in  New York. Organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN in collaboration with the UN Secretariat, the event took place in the North Lawn Area of UNHQ. Yoga can promote mindfulness and relaxation during times of difficulty and stress. It also supports physical well-being at all stages of life. Register to participate!

At The UN Office at Nairobi (UNON) in conjunction with The High Commission of India in Nairobi, Kenya, we are organizing a Chair Yoga event in observance of the International Day of Yoga 2026.

The International Day of Yoga is observed annually on 21 June. The Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly on 11 December 2014 through resolution 69/131, recognizing the universal appeal of yoga and its value as a holistic approach to health and well-being. Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word "yoga" derives from Sanskrit and means to join or unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. Today, yoga is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity. This Chair Yoga session will provide an accessible and inclusive way to mark the International Day of Yoga, allowing participants of different ages and physical abilities to take part in a gentle form of yoga. The event highlights yoga's contribution to health, well-being, mindfulness and harmony. Related Sites and Documents: website and Programme.

World Refugee Day 2026; June 20th.

FORUM: "Until Everyone is Safe" World Refugee Day 2026. The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), informed that the date of June 20 is dedicated to stand with refugees and people forced to flee. There would be events around the world. UNHCR's new initiative "Until Everyone is Safe" asked for the defense of the fundamental right to seek safety, and it was important to remember that protection saved lives. The initiative spoke to younger generations driven by a desire for social justice and solidarity while also facing uncertainty and socio-economic pressures. It invited them to see asylum not as a distant, abstract issue, but as a collective safety net – one that protected the most vulnerable today and could protect any of us tomorrow. "Until Everyone is Safe" challenged stereotypes about refugees and emphasizes that the right to seek safety was a lifeline that went beyond merely escaping war or violence. It complemented the High Commissioner's recently outlined goal of reducing by more than half, over the next decade, the number of refugees in long-term displacement reliant on humanitarian assistance. To achieve this, it would be essential to expand opportunities for voluntary return and resettlement, as well as access to jobs, healthcare and education, and support for local integration – enabling refugees to move beyond survival and rebuild their lives in dignity. This year, solidarity was more important than ever as the right to seek asylum was under growing pressure around the world. UNHCR called on all to defend this lifeline and keep the promise of safety alive. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #20june, #solidaritywithrefugees, #campaign, #worldrefugeeday.

EVENTS: On June 20th; The observance of World Refugee Day 2026 will be a moment to show solidarity with refugees, honoring their stories and showing unwavering support to their plight. Read the concept Note and Register to participate!

At UNHQ New York; The global ceremony of World Refugee Day 2026 will honor refugees and observe a minute of silence.

Around the globe: Find out how countries around the globe celebrate the day by selecting a country: World Refugee Day 2026 events in Australia and New Zealand – World Refugee 2026 events in Japan – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Thailand – World Refugee 2026 in Hong Kong – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Philippines – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Serbia – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Netherlands – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Iran – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Brazil – World Refugee Day 2026 events in Austria. This year, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency will launched a special campaign to create a global movement of solidarity with refugees. To participate Explore the list of worldwide events!

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on World Refugee Day 2026.


As divisions deepen across our world, new and protracted conflicts are compelling millions of women, children and men to seek safety far from home.

These turbulent times must be a moment for renewed solidarity and robust action to protect people displaced by conflict or persecution. That includes upholding the Refugee Convention, which has saved millions of lives since its adoption 75 years ago in the aftermath of the Second World War.

On World Refugee Day, we call for stronger support for all those forced to flee, as well as the countries and communities hosting them. By upholding international refugee law. Safeguarding the right to seek asylum. Forging solutions that enable refugees to live in safety and dignity, with real opportunities for self-reliance. And redoubling efforts towards peace.

Let us be inspired by the generosity of communities in developing countries, which host nearly three-quarters of the world’s refugees.

Together, we can protect the rights of all people forced to flee, now and for generations to come.

António Guterres, Secretary-General.

 

CAMPAIGN MATERIALS

This year, World Refugee Day focuses on the right to seek safety as a common safeguard for all of us.

The right to seek safety was made for you and me. 75 years ago, after the Second World War, the world made a promise: people forced to flee have the right to seek safety and protection. It was never meant for a few. It was meant for all of us.

No one is safe until the most vulnerable among us are. When people are forced to flee their homes, we all have a role to play. Ensuring protection for refugees strengthens communities, promotes stability, and saves lives.

This World Refugee Day, help keep the promise of safety alive. Stand with refugees. Until everyone is safe, we show up. Until everyone is safe, the work is not done. Get the poster!

International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict 2026; June 19th.

FORUM: ''Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Against Children: Safeguarding Futures and Empowering Caregivers.'' International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict 2026. Conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) against children constitutes one of the most serious and pervasive violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. It is also one of the six grave violations against children as identified by the UN Security Council (S/RES/1261,1999). In situations of armed conflict and political instability across the globe, girls and boys are acutely vulnerable to sexual violence perpetrated by state and non-State actors, including armed forces, militias, groups designated as terrorist by the United Nations, and other parties to conflict. These crimes include rape, sexual slavery, forced marriage, trafficking, sexual exploitation, enforced nudity, sexualized torture, and other forms of sexual violence, inflicting profound physical and psychological harm, disrupting development and education, and often triggering lifelong trauma. CRSV is neither accidental nor incidental. It is frequently employed deliberately as a tactic of war, terror, repression, and control. Sexual violence is used to destroy families, fracture communities, and destabilize social cohesion, with effects that reverberate across generations. Children are targeted to punish communities, extract information, force displacement, generate revenue through trafficking and exploitation, or incentivize recruitment within armed groups. The use of sexual violence against children thus serves strategic, political, military, and economic objectives within many conflicts, a trend underscored by the dramatic 35 percent increase in reported cases of CRSV against children in 2024-2025. The impact of CRSV on children is profound and long-lasting. They may face immediate physical and psychological harm, including severe injuries, trauma, unwanted pregnancies, exposure to sexually transmitted diseases, and risk of death. Over the longer term, children experience stigmatization, social exclusion, disruption of education, loss of family support, and heightened vulnerability to re-recruitment, re-victimization, or exploitation. These harms extend beyond the individual child to their caregivers - most often women, who may be themselves survivors of violence including CRSV – and who shoulder the increased burden of care in the face of ruptured healthcare systems, shattered civilian infrastructure, and the targeting of, or denial of access to, frontline humanitarian actors and their services. As formal services collapse or become inaccessible, caregivers are forced to absorb responsibilities that should be met by functioning systems and institutions. This crushing care burden exposes countless conflict-affected women to additional economic hardship, psychological strain, and social isolation, while simultaneously weakening community resilience. Restoring and enhancing systems of care - including healthcare, psychosocial support, and community-based protection - is therefore essential not only for child survivors, but also for the empowerment and wellbeing of caregivers and affected communities, who play a central role in recovery, reintegration and long-term healing. Despite the existence of a strong normative and legal framework - including multiple UN Security Council resolutions on conflict-related sexual violence and children and armed conflict - CRSV against children remains significantly under-reported and under-addressed. Structural barriers such as insecurity, lack of access to services, fear of retaliation, stigma, and distrust in institutions prevent children and their caregivers from seeking help. Boys, adolescents, and children subjected to sexualized torture in detention face particular invisibility, as harmful stereotypes often deny or minimize their victimization.

Impunity remains a central driver of these crimes, with perpetrators facing few, if any, consequences, while survivors continue to bear the brunt of suffering, stigma and shame. Weak justice systems and peace processes that marginalize or silence survivors further entrench cycles of violence. When sexual violence against children is not confronted directly and early, it undermines prospects for sustainable peace, reconciliation, the restoration of social cohesion, and recovery. Empowering women, caregivers, and affected communities through meaningful participation, equitable resourcing, and the rebuilding of formal systems of care, is indispensable to breaking these cycles and ensuring that responses to CRSV are sustainable, survivor-centered, and transformative. The resilience of survivors, caregivers, and communities shows that change is possible. By restoring systems of care and ensuring caregivers and affected communities are empowered to lead the response, we can build pathways to healing, justice, and a safer future for every child. In line with General Assembly Resolution 69/293 of 2015, an event will be held to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. This International Day is commemorated every year, on or around 19 June, which marks the date of the unanimous adoption of the first Security Council resolution to recognize conflict-related sexual violence as a tactic of war and a threat to international peace and security (S/RES/1820 of 2008). The purpose of this event is to stand in solidarity with child survivors - and all survivors of conflict-related sexual violence - to spark hope as we raise our voices to say: “End Rape In War”. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #EndRapeInWar, #19June, #SexualViolence, #campaign.

            

EVENT: On Friday, June 19th, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at UNHQ Conference Room 11, a high-level Event to commemorate the 12th official observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict will be held co-hosted by the Office of the SRSG on Sexual Violence in Conflict, the Office of the SRSG for Children and Armed Conflict, and the Permanent Mission of Argentina to the United Nations. 

The event will begin with opening remarks by the three co-hosts followed by video remarks from the SRSG on Violence Against Children. A social worker specialised in CRSV against children will be speaking virtually, representing Resilience Integration and Sustainable Empowerment (RISE), a women-led, community-based NGO in Somalia. H.R.H the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, in her capacity as a Global Champion in the Fight Against Sexual Violence in Conflict, will deliver a video statement. Médecins Sans Frontieres (MSF)’s Representative to the US Government will then deliver remarks. A representative from UNICEF, an active member of the UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict network, chaired by the SRSG-SVC, will present the coordinated work of the United Nations system in “delivering as one” in the fight against CRSV. This will be followed by a statement from the Executive Director of the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security. Before opening the floor, a short video testimony from a grandmother - the primary caregiver of a child survivor of CRSV in South Sudan - will be presented. To conclude, representatives of Member States, Regional Groups, and Civil Society will be invited to make brief interventions from the floor. 

Opening Segment: Moderator: Global Security Reporter - RTÉ, Ms. Yvonne Murray 

1. Permanent Representative of Argentina to the United Nations, H.E. Francisco Fabián Tropepi

2. Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict and Under-Secretary-General, Ms. Pramila Patten 

3. Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict and Under-Secretary-General, Ms. Vanessa Frazier Special Guests: Moderator: Global Security Reporter - RTÉ, Ms. Yvonne Murray 1. Video statement from the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Dr. Najat Maalla M'jid

 2. Live statement from a social worker at the NGO Resilience Integration and Sustainable Empowerment (RISE) in Somalia 3. Video statement from Her Royal Highness Maria Teresa, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, and Global Champion in the Fight against Sexual Violence in Conflict 

4. Statement from MSF’s Representative to the US Government, Ms. Ella Watson-Stryker 5. Statement from a representative from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), on behalf of the UN Action network 6. Statement from the Executive Director of the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), Ms. Kaavya Asoka 7. Video statement from a grandmother of a child survivor of CRSV in South Sudan 8. Interventions from Member States and Regional Groups, including co-sponsors of General Assembly Resolution 69/293 Moderator closes the event. 

Expected outcomes: 

1. Statements by the panelists, Member States, and senior United Nations officials, as informed by the perspectives of survivors and civil society representatives, will enhance understanding of patterns, drivers, and impacts of CRSV on children and the impact on their caretakers.

 2. Member States will reiterate their commitment to addressing CRSV, including through adequate, flexible, and sustainable resourcing to the Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Multi-Partner Trust Fund (CRSV MPTF), and reinforce their commitment to child-centered prevention, assistance and accountability, as well as highlighting good practices in prevention, accountability, child-sensitive justice, and holistic, survivor-centered services to address harms and safeguard futures by empowering and building the capacity of caregivers and institutions - according to national capabilities. 3. Enhanced media coverage globally, including the promotion of key messages on social media (#EndRapeinWar), and a dedicated microsite hosted by the United Nations Department of Global Communications featuring the Secretary-General’s annual message and other relevant resources https://tinyurl.com/5a2ykwy

3 Focal point for the event: Géraldine Boezio, Public Information Officer, Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict (OSRSG-SVC): geraldine.boezio@un.org.

Register to participate and watch the Live webcast!

Sustainable Gastronomy Day 2026; June 18th.

FORUM: "Where Food Connects Culture, Health and Planet." Sustainable Gastronomy Day 2026. Every meal we eat begins long before it reaches a kitchen. For restaurants of every kind, chefs must know their producers and  the land that sustains their work. Together, farmers and food producers must protect biodiversity. They must care for soil. They help shape our shared food future. In chef's kitchens, ingredient cooking becomes both craft and commitment. Everything has value and nothing is wasted. Each plate tells a story of tradition and innovation. Built on relationships powered by connection. Sustainable gastronomy led by farmers, producers and chefs. Shared by everyone. Follow the conversation with the hashtags, #Recipes, #MolecularGastronomy, #sustainablegastronomy, #18june.

EVENT: On June 18th, the celebration of the Sustainable Gastronomy Day 2026 will highlight how food systems connect agriculture, environment, culture and health across the world. It underscores the need for regenerative, inclusive approaches that protect ecosystems while supporting livelihoods. In this video, FAO Goodwill Ambassadors and Champions bring these principles to life. Register to participate!

 

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International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2026; June 18th.

FORUM:"The power of partnerships in countering speech"  UN International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2026. On 21 July 2021, the General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/75/309 on “Promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue and tolerance in countering hate speech.” This resolution, that was presented to Member States by the Kingdom of Morocco, and which builds up on the first-ever resolution on hate speech A/RES/73/328, marked an important milestone in advancing global efforts to address and counter hate speech in all its forms and manifestations, including in the digital context. The resolution proclaims 18 June as the ‘International Day for Countering Hate Speech to be observed annually. The first International Day was marked in 2022. In follow up to resolution A/RES/73/328, at the initiative of the Kingdom of Morocco, the General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/77/318 in 2023 which acknowledges the negative impact of hate speech on human rights, peace and inclusion. The resolution further calls on all key actors and relevant stakeholders, particularly Member States, to increase their efforts to counter discrimination and hate speech. Within the UN system, tackling hate speech remains a key priority through the implementation of the United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech. Subsequently, General Assembly resolution A/RES/79/316 adopted in June 2025 “encourages Member States to consider […] initiatives that identify areas for practical action in all sectors and levels of society for the promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, tolerance, understanding and cooperation” as a tool to counter hate speech. The UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech underscores the importance of partnerships in the fight against hate speech. Indeed, as hate speech affects the whole society, a whole-of-society approach is necessary to address this phenomenon. Relatedly, the UN Strategy stresses the need to raise awareness about respect for human rights, non-discrimination, coexistence, acceptance and respect for diversity and understanding of other cultures and religions, as well as the promotion of intercultural, interfaith and interreligious dialogue. It urges for the use of advocacy to highlight hate speech trends of concern as well as to express sympathy and support to targeted individuals or groups. This is most resonant in the current context of rising conflicts globally, both in their frequency and intensity as well as in the ways in which hate speech is used to fuel them. Unlike any other time in our history, we are witnessing these conflicts and trends in real-time, livestreamed across different platforms – the average. individual, and society as a whole, have never had access to more information than today, but they have also never been more saturated with it. Whilst increased access to information should lead to more awareness and action, the speed with which new and emerging technologies are disseminating them, coupled with the proliferation and virality of hate speech, misinformation and disinformation, have led to a concerning decrease in empathy for their tragic consequences. To protect all those at risk of hate speech, which can lead to incitement to violence, and to prevent hate speech becoming a normalized tool of power and influence, there is an urgent need to further strengthen practical approaches and tools, and scalable strategies to break the cycles of hate, elevate empathy, and acceptance , and respect for diversity as critical pillars in any society and reinforce the foundations of dialogue and understanding as instrumental to building peaceful and just societies. These practical approaches entail policies, new technologies and innovative partnerships to advance and sustain efforts to not only address the root causes of hate speech but also mitigate its impact on societies and communities and to counter it. They consider the intersection of education, media, digital literacy, monitoring, data collection and identification of access points for interventions. In the current international landscape, partnerships also remain essential in designing and implementing these practical tools and approaches for countering hate speech and other noxious narratives and contribute to a healthy information ecosystem. Follow the conversation with the #HateSpeech, #18june, #NotoHate, #hatred, #hate, #CounteringHateSpeech. #Thepowerofpartnerships

EVENT: On June 18th, from 10:00 - 12:00 EDT in the Conference Room 4 at the United Nations, New York, a High-level event to mark the 5th International Day for Countering Hate Speech focused on partnerships and coalition building, with emphasis on practical approaches and tools for countering hate speech.This year marks the 5th International Day for Countering Hate Speech. To commemorate it, the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Morocco, jointly with the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect, is organizing the annual High-Level Event. The objective are to - Showcase the work of various actors in countering hate speech. - To Stress the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach in combating hateful narratives and to Discuss good practices and lessons learned in countering hate speech. Read the concept note, Register to participate and Watch the international Day for Countering Hate Speech 2026 "The power of partnerships in countering speech".

PROVISIONAL AGENDA. From10.00 – 10:40 AM – Opening and high-level segment • Annalena Barboek, President of the General Assembly TBC • Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General TBC• Amb. Omar Hilale, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations (confirmed) • USG Chaloka Beyani, Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide (confirmed) • USG Moratinos, High Representative of the Alliance of Civilizations • Melissa Fleming, USG, Department of Global Communications. From 10.40- 11.30: Practical approaches to protecting our shared humanity from hate speech • Mr. Tristan Harris, Center for Humane Technology, CEO and Founder (TBC) • Maria Ressa, Independent International Scientific Panel on AI Chair (TBC) • Ahmed Shaheed, Professor of International Human Rights Law in the School of Law and Human Rights Centre at the University of Essex • One religious actor from the UN Muli-faith Advisory Council. From 11:30- 12.30: Member States’ Statements from the floor Moderated by: KoM PR; Starting at 12:30 Closing remarks by Kingdom of Morocco and SA OSAPOG

Livestream time: 02:43:29.
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