World Pulses Day 2026; February 10th.

FORUM: “Pulses of the World: From Modesty to Excellence.“ World Pulses Day 2026. The theme was selected to highlight the required transformation – from humble origins to global recognition for their flavours, nutritional attributes and culinary diversity. Pulses bring diversity to our agrifood systems in multiple ways: on the farm, in our diets and through value-added products. They boost biodiversity on farms by enriching cropping systems with more species. With more than 100 types of pulses available, farmers have many options for crop rotations and/or intercropping. Consumers can enjoy pulses as part of healthy diets. They are an affordable, protein-rich food source (19–25 percent protein), packed with essential minerals, high in fibre, and low in fat. These edible seeds are highly versatile and can be processed into different products, such as flour for making bread and pasta, or even protein drinks. That means they provide a range of income opportunities. From improving human health to strengthening soil ecosystems, pulses merit a central place in modern, healthy, and sustainable diets. This year’s theme aims to challenge misconceptions that overshadow these crops and celebrate their true excellence. FAO is running a global campaign to raise awareness about the economic, social and environmental benefits of pulses. Whether you are a policymaker, farmer, educator or a pulses enthusiast, there is a role for you. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #WorldPulsesDay; #LovePulses; #10February.

EVENTS: The global celebration of World Pulses Day 2026.

On February 10th, 2026, from 11.30–15.00 (UTC + 1) at the Miguel Delibes Cultural Centre in Valladolid, Spain. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will held the global observance of the World Pulses Day in collaboration with other relevant partners to underscore the critical importance of these crops in the quest for global food security and nutrition. FAO, the Kingdom of Spain, The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Rural Development of the Regional Government of Castile and León (Castilla y León regional government) are facilitating the event, which will be only the second time that this United Nations-designated observance will be held outside FAO Headquarters – an eloquent testimony to Spain’s strong commitment to sustainable agrifood systems. Register to participate!

Agenda Programme of the hybrid event to mark the World Pulses Day 2026 entitled "Pulses of the world: from modesty to excellence.".

11.30–13.00 (UTC + 1) - Scientific and culinary forum | This forum will explore the role of pulses in advancing sustainable agrifood systems and examine approaches to elevating these crops from their modest origins to the realm of gastronomic excellence. Watch the livestream!

14.00–15.00 (UTC + 1) - Opening Ceremony | High level invitees will participate in the official opening of the World Pulses Day 2026. Watch the ceremony!

EXHIBITS: On the occasion of the World Pulses Day 2026, the FAO Museum and Network opens a new exhibition spotlighting a powerful – yet often marginalized – set of crops for healthy diets and sustainable agrifood systems. The exhibition, titled “Pulses of the World: From Modesty to Excellence” after the 2026 World Pulses Day theme, will be on display from 10 February to 10 March 2026 in a dedicated space within the museum, welcoming both FAO staff and external visitors. Through an engaging display of a vast array of pulses and their end products from around the world, the exhibition invites visitors to rediscover the diversity and nutritional benefits of these crops and, uniquely, how the environment is enriched when they are cultivated. From traditional ingredients to novel food products to be displayed, it will be evident that pulses are key ingredients for healthy, modern and sustainable diets. Multimedia content complements the physical displays, offering insights into agricultural production systems, culinary traditions, innovative uses, and opportunities along the value chains for improved livelihoods, all of which are bringing pulses back to the heart of agrifood systems and the much-needed transformations. Pulses are a subgroup of legumes, packed with nutrients and harvested for their delicious dried seeds. They include familiar favourites like beans, chickpeas and peas, but there’s a whole world of pulse types to explore! All come with great benefits for food security, nutrition and health as well as ecosystem services. Pulses are more than just nutritious seeds, they also contribute to achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly those pertaining to food security and nutrition, health, sustainable consumption and production and climate change. Building on the success of the International Year of Pulses (IYP) in 2016 implemented by FAO, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) designated February 10th as World Pulses Day (WPD). Since 2019, FAO has led the annual observance of this important Day. Despite their exceptional nutritional values and immense environmental benefits, their per capita consumption has declined in many developed and developing countries. In several societies, particularly in urban areas, pulses are still associated with low-cost diets or rural cuisine. In 2026, the theme "Pulses of the World: From Modesty to Excellence" challenges misconceptions that overshadow the benefits of pulses and celebrates their true excellence and role in modern, healthy diets and sustainable agrifood systems. The exhibition is open to the public by reservation via this online FORM.

PUBLICATIONS: Explore the newly published “ A guide to World Pulses Day 2026” for ideas, resources and practical tips tailored for different stakeholders. This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource to learn more about pulses and how you can take part in this global initiative. Get the guide!

Terminology matters: Advancing Science to Define an Optimal Pulse Intake - Confusion around the terms “legumes” and “pulses” has been a long-standing problem among consumers, health professionals, and researchers in the United States. The Food and Agricultural Organization defines pulses as legumes that are harvested solely as dry grain and include beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils. For the first time ever, the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recognized and used the terminology “pulses.” Read the full publication!

STATEMENTS: “There is compelling evidence of the contribution of pulses to healthy and sustainable agrifood systems. We invite Member Nations, international and regional organizations, civil society, and all those with an interest in pulses to engage in efforts that support increased production and consumption, so these benefits can be fully realized.” said Yurdi Yasmi, Director of the FAO Plant Production and Protection Division.

“We are trying to reverse these trends and in this year’s celebration, we aim to highlight the true value of these crops,” said Yurdi Yasmi, Director of the FAO Plant Production and Protection Division, noting that the Day is about boosting the sustainable production and consumption of pulses.

“Pulses are a very important food crops and, in the Autonomous Community of Castile and León, we are committed to promoting them,” said María González Corral, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Rural Development of the Regional Government of Castile and León.

International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026; February 6th.

FORUM: "Stepping Towards 2030: No end to FGM without Sustained Commitments and Actions.'' International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026. While significant efforts over recent decades have contributed to progress in addressing female genital mutilation, current trends are insufficient to meet global elimination goals without accelerated action. And the gains made are fragile. Funding cuts, declining investment in health, education and child protection, growing pushback against elimination efforts and increasing medicalization of FGM threaten to slow or reverse progress. Without adequate and predictable financing, community-based programmes risk being scaled back, health and other services weakened and millions more girls placed at risk. As the world approaches 2030, the promise to end female genital mutilation stands at a decisive moment. Gains made over the past decade risk being reversed as global funding and support for gender equality, girls and women’s rights, and ending harmful practices continue to decline. Yet, millions of girls still depend on our collective will to act. Amidst all these challenges, one thing is clear: there can be no end to FGM without sustained commitment and investment. sustained action and investment does not only mean financial resources—it encompasses people’s initiatives, skills and knowledge, assets/equipment, systems, entrepreneurship, technological, informational and influential/ reputational resources. To advance the elimination of FGM, sustained engagement from governments, civil society, communities, philanthropic foundations and the international community is essential. Each act of commitment—whether a policy change, a mentoring initiative, a safe space for dialogue, or a shared story of resilience—represents a step forward towards a world free from FGM. Continued and flexible funding is vital to protect past achievements, sustain momentum, and ensure that national and community actors can continue their work with confidence and stability. On this International Day, partners reaffirm their shared commitment to work with grassroots champions, young leaders, survivors, civil society, governments and partners to accelerate progress towards ending FGM. With four years remaining to meet the 2030 target, sustained action and investment are critical to protect girls and ensure that hard-won progress is not lostFor more than a decade, the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme has supported survivors and prioritized investments in survivor-led initiatives. There are now more than 200 million survivors. Share your efforts and stories by tagging #Unite2EndFGM from across social media platforms and affirming the commitments. It is only through concerted efforts that we can make lasting change so that no girl has to live with fear or endure the harmful consequences of FGM. So, let’s Unite to End FGM. Every voice counts! Follow the conversation with the hashtags:#steppingupthepace, #6February, #EndFGM.

EVENTS: On February 6th at 14:00 CET, the WHO will participate in a global advocacy webinar for International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026 entitled "Stepping Towards 2030: No end to FGM without Sustained Commitments and Actions''. The advocacy event hosted by the UNFPA – UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation. The observance of the day provides an opportunity to highlight progress and raise awareness to end this harmful practice. From community leaders to health workers and family members, everyone has a role to play. With only 5 years to the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, our efforts must be faster and bolder. We must step up the pace 27 times to achieve SDG 5.3 on ending FGM. Keeping this urgency in mind. Register to participate!

Key messages
● Female genital mutilation violates the fundamental rights of girls, including the right to health, life, physical and mental integrity and freedom from torture.
● By strengthening alliances among grassroots activists, communities, governments, organizations and the private sector, we can build a powerful social movement that ends harmful norms, which promote the continuation of the practice.
● Every public declaration, every conversation, and every investment brings us closer to a world free from female genital mutilation, ensuring a safer and brighter future for girls.

Call to action
● Increase investment to ensure no girl is at risk of female genital mutilation: Governments, donors, and the private sector must step up financial investments to scale up of effective interventions.
● Strengthen social movements to eliminate female genital mutilation through partnerships: Expand social movements led by girls, women, survivors, youth, boys and men through strategic coalitions that amplify action to eliminate female genital mutilation.
● Centre the voices and stories of survivors: Place survivors at the heart of advocacy, policymaking, and implementation efforts. Their voices are essential to driving change.
● Advocate for accountability: Ensure countries uphold their commitment to international, regional and national human rights through regular reporting of progress in implementation of policies, strategies and interventions that protect girls at risk and provide necessary care including justice for survivors.
● Engage everyone: Ending female genital mutilation requires the collective efforts of girls, women, survivors, men, boys, youth, traditional and religious leaders, communities, governments, private sector and donors as key allies.

PUBLICATION: New study showing health complications due to FGM.

In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) published the WHO guidelines on the management of health complications from female genital mutilation. That publication’s main purpose was to provide evidence-informed recommendations on managing health complications associated with FGM. The current revised guideline has an expanded scope, providing up-to-date recommendations on FGM prevention as well as clinical management of complications. The process of updating and revising this guideline resulted in eight recommendations relating to training and capacity-building of health workers on FGM prevention and care, including access to capacity-building resources; educational interventions targeting women and girls living with or at risk of FGM as well as men and boys in FGM-affected communities; deinfibulation for women with Type III FGM, including the timing of deinfibulation; mental health interventions for women and girls living with FGM and having symptoms of anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and surgical and non-surgical sexual health interventions. In addition, three best practice statements are presented on the development and enforcement of laws and policies against FGM, the need for professional codes of conduct for health workers and the importance of counselling and informed consent prior to deinfibulation. Considerations on implementing the recommendations are also discussed. Read the full publication!

CALCULATOR: FGM cost calculator.


Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026; February 6th.

Female genital mutilation violates the universal human rights to life, health and bodily integrity — and causes lasting harm to over 230 million women and girls worldwide.

It is rooted in the same gender bias that restricts girls’ access to education, narrows women’s opportunities for employment, and limits their participation in public life.

The world has committed to ending this dangerous practice by 2030. But in the meantime, 23 million girls remain at risk.

Getting to zero will require sustained political commitment — and sustained investment. Governments, civil society, health workers, and traditional and religious leaders all have a role to play. The United Nations is working on prevention and advocacy, ensuring that survivors have access to care, and empowering women and girls through education, employment, and leadership opportunities.

On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, let us renew our promise to protect the rights of women and girls everywhere, and ensure that they can live free from violence and fear.

Together, we can end this injustice once and for all.

António Guterres.

UNFPA, UNICEF, World Health Organization (WHO) Joint Statement on International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026.

In 2026 alone, an estimated 4.5 million girls—many under the age of five—are at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation. Currently, more than 230 million girls and women are living with its consequences.

Today, on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we reaffirm our commitment to end female genital mutilation for every girl and every woman at risk, and to continue working to ensure those subjected to this harmful practice have access to quality and appropriate services.



Female genital mutilation is a violation of human rights and cannot be justified on any grounds. It compromises girls’ and women’s physical and mental health and can lead to serious, lifelong complications, with treatment costs estimated at about USD 1.4 billion every year.

Interventions aimed at ending female genital mutilation over the last three decades are having an impact, with nearly two-thirds of the population in countries where it is prevalent expressing support for its elimination. After decades of slow change, progress against female genital mutilation is accelerating: half of all gains since 1990 were achieved in the past decade reducing the number of girls subjected to FGM from one in two to one in three. We need to build on this momentum and speed up progress to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target of ending female genital mutilation by 2030.

We know what works. Health education, engaging religious and community leaders, parents and health workers and the use of traditional and social media are effective strategies to end the practice. We must invest in community-led movements—including grassroots and youth networks—and strengthen education through both formal and community-based approaches. We need to amplify prevention messages by involving trusted opinion leaders, including health workers. And we must support survivors by ensuring they have access to comprehensive, context-tailored health care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance.

Every dollar invested in ending female genital mutilation yields a tenfold return. An investment of USD 2.8 billion can prevent 20 million cases and generate USD 28 billion in investment returns.

As we approach 2030, gains achieved over decades are at risk as global investment and support wane. Funding cuts and declining international investment in health, education, and child protection programmes are already constraining efforts to prevent female genital mutilation and support survivors. Further, the growing systematic pushback on efforts to end female genital mutilation, including dangerous arguments that it should be carried out by doctors or health workers to reduce harm, adds more hurdles to elimination efforts. Without adequate and predictable financing, community outreach programmes risk being scaled back, frontline services weakened, and progress reversed—placing millions more girls at risk at a critical moment in the push to meet the 2030 target.

Today we reaffirm our commitment and efforts with local and global public and private partners, including survivors, to end female genital mutilation once and for all.

Joint statement by the UNFPA Executive Director, UNICEF Executive Director, OHCHR High Commissioner, UN Women Executive Director, WHO Director-General, and UNESCO Director-General on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: Visual assets in English, French, Arabic.

World Cancer Day 2026, February 4th.

FORUM: "United by Unique" World Cancer Day 2026. The day will highlight the importance of person-centred cancer care. Every experience with cancer is unique and it will take all of us, united, to create a world where we look beyond the disease and see the person before the patient. The UICC’s Campaign recognizes that every experience with cancer is unique, and every individual has unique needs, perspectives, and stories. The organization underscored that individuals affected by cancer are united in a shared ambition to see governments implement policies to improve cancer prevention and deliver health systems that treat patients with cancer effectively and successfully—resulting in greater survival rates and longer lives after cancer. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #cancercare, #CancerResearch, #cancer, #4February, #WorldCancerDay, #UnitedbyUnique.

EVENTS: Join the WHO/PAHO on Wednesday, February 4th at 10:00 a.m. (Washington DC, or EST) to participate to the World Cancer Day 2026 event entitled "Supporting the elimination of cervical cancer". This event will bring together experts and representatives from key organizations to address the challenges and opportunities in the fight against cancer, sharing progress, experiences, and establishing commitments to improve access to medicines in the region. Organized in commemoration of World Cancer Day, this webinar highlights the initiative to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean. The event emphasizes the specific goals of the elimination initiative: achieving 90% HPV vaccination coverage, 70% screening with a high-performance test, and 90% treatment coverage for precancerous lesions and invasive cancer by 2030. This webinar aims to strengthen the fight against cancer in the region by promoting effective collaboration and joint actions to reach ambitious targets in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cervical cancer.

Objectives

• Present the role and vision of AECID and Unitaid for the elimination of cervical cancer globally and regionally.
• Launch of the Cervical Cancer Dashboard.
• Launch of a tool for cervical cancer planning in the region.
• Regional Revolving Funds present available products to eliminate cervical cancer.

Agenda
Moderator: Mauricio Maza, Regional Advisor, Cancer Prevention and Control, PAHO
10:00 a.m. Opening remarksJarbas Barbosa, Director, PAHO
Anselm Hennis, Director, Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health
10:10 a.m. AECID vision to support cervical cancer eliminationOriana Ramírez Rubio, Head of Health Area, Directorate of Sectoral, European and Multilateral Cooperation, AECID
10:25 a.m. Screening Experience in Antigua and Barbuda and Its Vision to Eliminate Cervical CancerSmiljka de Lussigny, Programme Manager, Diagnostics and cervical cancer, Unitaid
10:40 a.m. Launch of Cervical Cancer Dashboard Mauricio Maza, Regional Advisor, Cancer Prevention and Control, PAHO
10:55 a.m. Planning tool for HPV screening and treatmentSara Benitez Majano, PAHO
11:10 a.m. PAHO Regional Revolving Funds and their role in cervical cancer eliminationSantiago Cornejo, Director, Regional Revolving Funds, PAHO
11:25 a.m. Closing RemarksSilvana Luciani, Unit Chief, Noncommunicable Diseases, PAHO
Time in other cities7:00 a.m. – Los Angeles, Vancouver.
9:00 a.m. - Belmopan, Guatemala City, Managua, Mexico City, San Salvador, San José (CR), Tegucigalpa.
10:00 a.m. - Bogotá, Havana, Kingston, Lima, Port-au-Prince, Nassau, Ottawa, Panama City, Quito, Washington D.C.
11:00 a.m. – Bridgetown, Caracas, Georgetown, La Paz, Port of Spain, San Juan, Santo Domingo, Saint George´s, Saint John´s (Antigua).
12:00 p.m. - Asunción, Buenos Aires, Brasilia, Montevideo, Paramaribo, Santiago.
4:00 p.m. – Geneva, Madrid.

How to participate: For other cities, please refer to the local time at this link.
LANGUAGES: Spanish and English, with simultaneous interpretation. REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE!

On February 4th, various activities will take place globally, including the "5k Challenge" by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), encouraging individuals from all backgrounds to participate in activities such as running, cycling, swimming, hiking or walking to symbolize closing the gap in care. Additionally, there will be "21-day challenges" for individuals to create new healthy habits, raise awareness about cervical cancer, and educate themselves about inequalities in accessing cancer services. View the map of activities!

On February 12th, 2026, from 06:00 pm CET and 12:00 pm EST. The MDPI will host a webinar to mark the World Cancer Day 2026. In 2026, MDPI is honored to support World Cancer Day through a monthly awareness ries beginning in February. Each session will focus on a key cancer awareness theme, showcasing cutting-edge research and expert insights through specially curated landing pages and a dedicated webinar series. Through this special activity, we aim to sustain engagement and cross-disciplinary collaboration throughout the year. Explore the list of events. The Keynote Speakers are Dr. Xiang Xue, University of New Mexico, USA; Dr. Federico Pio Fabrizio, Kore University of Enna, Italy; Dr. Anis Ahmad, University of Miami, USA; Dr. Hiroaki Kiyokawa, Northwestern University, USA. Register for this webinar for free here!

CAMPAIGN: Behind every diagnosis lies a unique human story - stories of grief, pain, healing, resilience, love and more. That’s why a people-centred approach to cancer care that fully integrates each individual’s unique needs, with compassion and empathy, leads to the best health outcomes. The "United by Unique" campaign will begin its journey by inviting individuals from all walks of life to share their personal cancer stories. Much like people-centred care aims to see the individual behind the disease, the campaign intends to showcase real stories with unique perspectives. Whether it’s someone living with cancer, a family member, a caregiver, a medical professional, an advocate, or an ally, every person’s experience with cancer, the diverse challenges each faces, and how people-centred care could respond to their unique situation. By bringing these stories together into one place, the campaign aims to build a rich collection of voices that serves as a striking illustration of what is meant by “United by Unique”: every person is one of a kind, but no one is alone in the aim to take meaningful and lasting action against cancer. This year is all about recognizing and validating each unique experience, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among those affected by cancer; Let's come together to rewrite the future of cancer care - one where the needs of people and communities come first. Join the campaign!

Relevant Special Issues

Cancers
"Cancer Immunotherapy as Part of Precision Clinical Medicine" Guest Editors: Prof. Dr. Peter Lang and Dr. Christo Kole
"Improving the Quality of Life in Patients with Gynecological Cancer" Guest Editor: Dr. Vasilios Pergialiotis
Current Oncology
"Health Disparities and Outcomes in Cancer Survivors" Guest Editor: Dr. Claire Jungyoun Han.
"Advances in Implementation Science and Knowledge Mobilization for Cancer Control" Guest Editor: Dr. Sarah Neil-Sztramko
Onco
"Liquid Biopsy and Peripheral Immune Status in Cancer Therapy Response".

Statement of the the WHO Africa Director-General Dr. Mohamed Janabi on World Cancer Day 2026,


Cancer is no longer a silent crisis in Africa. It is a growing public health emergency that demands urgent, equitable and sustained action.

On World Cancer Day today, the World Health Organization joins governments, partners and communities across the continent to reaffirm a clear commitment: cancer can be prevented, detected earlier and treated more effectively – and every life saved matters.

In the WHO African Region, cancer is becoming one of the leading causes of premature death. Each year, more than 1 million new cases are diagnosed, and nearly 1 million people lose their lives to the disease. Behind these numbers are mothers, fathers, children and young people whose lives are cut short not because solutions do not exist, but because access to those solutions remains unequal.

Cancer is not only a health issue. It is also a development challenge. It strains families, weakens health systems and undermines economic progress. The burden falls disproportionately on those with the least access to early detection, timely treatment and financial protection.

The past year has demonstrated what is possible when cancer control becomes a national priority. Countries across the Region have expanded HPV vaccination, strengthened cervical cancer screening services, improved access to childhood cancer care, and begun integrating palliative care into routine health services. These are important foundations for long-term survival gains.

Yet, major gaps persist. Delayed diagnosis remains common. Service interruptions disrupt continuity of care. Specialized health workers are in short supply. Access to radiotherapy, pathology and essential cancer medicines remains extremely limited in many settings. For too many families, the cost of care is catastrophic.

Too often, a woman is screened but never treated.

Too often, a child is diagnosed too late.

Too often, families must choose between seeking care and meeting basic needs.

This is not acceptable.

WHO will continue to support African countries through evidence-based global and regional initiatives, including the Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer, the Global Breast Cancer Initiative, the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines, and Women’s Integrated Cancer Services.

But these initiatives will only succeed if they are fully embedded in national health systems, sustainably financed, and translated into concrete services at the primary health care level.

We must invest in what works: HPV vaccination; high-performance screening tests; decentralized treatment of precancerous lesions; strengthened surgical, radiotherapy and pathology capacity; reliable access to essential cancer medicines; and the integration of palliative care from the time of diagnosis.

We must measure progress not by strategies written, but by girls vaccinated, cancers detected early, patients treated timeously, financial hardship reduced, and lives saved.

On this World Cancer Day, I call for decisive action at every level:

Governments must make cancer control a development priority, integrating prevention, early detection, treatment and palliative care into national budgets, universal health coverage reforms and primary health care systems.


Partners and donors must invest in high-impact, integrated and sustainable programmes.


Health workers must continue to lead with skill and compassion, bringing services closer to communities and strengthening trust in care.


People living with cancer and survivors must remain central to national responses, not only as beneficiaries of care, but as advocates and partners in change.

Africa can change the trajectory of cancer. But this will require sustained political will, stronger domestic investment, resilient health systems and an unwavering commitment to equity and accountability.

Let us move from commitments to measurable results, from strategies to services, and ensure that no one in Africa is left behind in the fight against cancer.

Together, we can secure a future where every person has access to prevention, early diagnosis, quality treatment and dignified care.

WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohamed Janabi.

OTHER STATEMENTS: Read the statement of the World Health Organization South-East Asia Region - WHO SEARO Director on World Cancer Day 2026, February 4th; The Statement of Dr Tedros; WHO Director General on World Cancer Day 2026 and the statement of the PAHO Director-General on World Cancer Day 2026; February 4th.

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: Accompany your message with your own custom social media poster or one of the World Cancer Day social media cards.

International Day for Human Fraternity 2026; February 4th.

FORUM: “Dialogue Over Division.” International Day of Human Fraternity 2026. This year’s theme calls on all of us to put dialogue over division. Dialogue does not mean we must agree on everything. It means we listen with care, speak with responsibility, and recognize each other’s humanity. Especially when we feel afraid, angry or uncertain. Human fraternity and the values it embodies such as mutual respect, diversity of cultures and religions, and the advancement of intercultural and inter-religious dialogue reminds us of the common values that we share as one humanity. This spirit is particularly needed at a time when many communities are divided across religious, ethnic, and cultural lines. Growing religious hatred, stigma, and manifestations of various forms of discrimination against vulnerable communities including minorities are an affront to human rights and United Nations values. Such vile acts risk undermining global efforts to recover and rebuild better in a post-pandemic era. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #4February, #HumanFraternityDay, #peace.

EVENT: On Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 to mark the International Day of Human Fraternity 2026 from 14:00 to 17:00 PM EST (New York time); The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Egypt to the United Nations and Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, are organizing a virtual event for Member States, religious leaders, faith actors, and civil society representatives. The upcoming virtual event will provide an opportunity to highlight the principles and values included in the Document of Human Fraternity and renew our joint commitment to promoting mutual respect, religious and cultural diversity, and advancing dialogue. Register to participate!

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of Human Fraternity 2026; February 4th.

On this International Day of Human Fraternity, we celebrate equality, dignity and mutual understanding.

By honouring these timeless values, we can help to heal our fractured world.

Too often, cultural and religious differences are exploited to fuel the fires of war, or to scapegoat others for political and economic challenges. At the same time, technology is increasingly used to stoke hatred and spread fear.

We must work harder to find common ground. This is the message at the heart of Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together, a declaration co-authored by His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb.

Let us draw inspiration from this spirit.

Let us reject fear and division in favour of tolerance, curiosity and respect for diversity.

Together, we can build a world based on equal rights for all and compassion — and live in peace as one human family.

António Guterres.

LIVESTREAM: The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an annual independent and international award recognizing individuals or entities across the world who lead by example, collaborating selflessly and tirelessly to bridge divides and create real human connection, often at great personal sacrifice. Honorees receive a USD$1 million prize. The Azerbaijan-Armenia Peace Agreement, Afghan girls’ education advocate Ms. Zarqa Yaftali, and Palestinian welfare organization Taawon are the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026 honorees. They are being honored for their humanitarian work in this year’s ceremony on February 4th at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. An independent jury selects these individuals and organizations for their notable contributions to pressing societal issues and nurturing peace and solidarity, making an impact in their communities as well as globally. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an annual independent international award that recognizes people and entities of all backgrounds, anywhere in the world, who are working selflessly and tirelessly across divides to advance the timeless values of solidarity, integrity, fairness, and optimism, and create breakthroughs towards peaceful coexistence. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026 Ceremony will be streamed live. Watch the livestream!

The Azerbaijan-Armenia Peace Agreement, Afghan girls’ education advocate Ms. Zarqa Yaftali, and Palestinian welfare organization Taawon are the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026 honorees. They are being honored for their humanitarian work in this year’s ceremony on February 4th at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. An independent jury selects these individuals and organizations for their notable contributions to pressing societal issues and nurturing peace and solidarity, making an impact in their communities as well as globally. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an annual independent international award that recognizes people and entities of all backgrounds, anywhere in the world, who are working selflessly and tirelessly across divides to advance the timeless values of solidarity, integrity, fairness, and optimism, and create breakthroughs towards peaceful coexistence. 

Follow the conversation with the hashtags:  #ZayedAwardforHumanFraternity

World Wetlands Day 2026; February 2nd.

FORUM: "Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage." World Wetlands Day 2026. The theme explores the deep-rooted connections between wetlands and cultural practices, traditions and knowledge systems of communities across the world. Wetlands are disappearing three times faster than forests, and more than 35% of wetlands have been degraded or lost since 1970. This year’s theme highlights the deep connections between wetlands and people, calling for urgent action to safeguard these ecosystems as vital ecological and cultural assets for current and future generations. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration is a call for the protection and revival of ecosystems around the world. It runs from 2021 to 2030. By conserving the world’s wetlands, we safeguard biodiversity, enhance climate resilience and secure critical ecosystem services that support human health, economic wellbeing and cultural heritage. Follow the conversations with the hashtags #WorldWetlandsDay, #wetlandrestoration, #2February ,#ReviveAndRestore, #wetlands.

EVENTS: On February 2nd, 2026 at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, and online, the Celebration of World Wetlands Day 2026 will coincide with the 50th Anniversary of Italy’s ratification of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, adopted in 1971. The event will be co-organized by the Italian Permanent Representation of Italy to the United Nations, the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE), Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), the Lazio Region, the Nazzano Tevere–Farfa Regional Nature Reserve, and the RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands, with the technical support of FAO. This session will be followed by afternoon events at the Nazzano Tevere–Farfa Regional Nature Reserve – Italy’s first Ramsar site. This year’s theme resonates strongly with FAO’s mandate to transform agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. Moreover, it underscores the urgent need to protect, restore, and sustainably use wetlands by valuing traditional knowledge as a cornerstone for ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, and sustainable agrifood systems, in line with the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030). REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND THE EVENT ONSITE or REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND THE EVENT ONLINE.

AGENDA, 2 February 2026, 09:00-11:00 (UTC+1)

08:30 – Opening of the Room

Welcome coffee

09:00 – Opening Remarks

Claudio Barbaro, Undersecretary of State for the Environment and Energy Security, Italy
Zhimin WU, Assistant Director-General and Director of the Forestry Division, FAO
Musonda Mumba, Secretary General, Convention on Wetlands

09:40 – Session 1: The Universal Value of Wetlands

Valuing, conserving, restoring and financing wetlands – Hugh Robertson, Chair of STRP, Convention on Wetlands, New Zealand

Earth observation for the wetland inventories of the future: preview of the first national wetland inventory based on satellite data – Christian Tøttrup, Senior Advisor and EO4WI Project Manager, DHI, Denmark

Mediterranean wetlands: responses to ongoing crises – Anis Guelmami, Coordinator of the Mediterranean Wetlands Observatory, Tour du Valat, France

10:10 – Session 2: Celebrating Natural and Cultural Heritage

Wetlands: a celebration of nature’s wonder – FAO

Ramsar wetlands in Italy - ISPRA

10:20 – Session 3: 50 Years of the Convention in Italy

Thirty years of evolution of the Ramsar Site “Marano Lagunare: Mouth of the Stella River” – Pierpaolo Zanchetta, Biodiversity Service, Directorate for Agrifood, Forestry and Agriculture, Autonomous Region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia

The role of the Ramsar Site “Laghi di Preola e Gorghi Tondi” for the restoration of the dried-up ponds and the endemic water turtle population – Stefania D’Angelo, Director of the Laghi di Preola e Gorghi Tondi Oasis, WWF; Susanna D’Antoni, STRP Focal Point for the Convention on Wetlands, ISPRA

Innovative financial instruments for the protection and restoration of peatlands and other wetlands – Alessandro Leonardi, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Etifor | Valuing Nature

10:50 – Closing Remarks

Francesco Tomas, Director General for the Protection of Biodiversity and the Sea, Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, Italy (tbc)


Lifeng Li, Director of the Land and Water Division, FAO

An afternoon session will be held from 13:00 to 17:30 at the Nazzano Tevere–Farfa Regional Nature Reserve, including a guided visit to Lake Nazzano, one of the first Ramsar Sites established in Italy. View the programme here >>>; Further details on World Wetlands Day are available on the official website here.

On Feburary 2nd;The observance of World Wetlands Day 2026 hosted by the FAO, in collaboration with the Ramsar Convention Secretariat is open to everyone — from international organizations, governments, wetland practitioners, to children, youth, media, community groups, decision-makers, to all individuals, the celebrations will remind us how these ecosystems are important for us all. Get the list of upcoming events and Register to participate!

Statement by Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands for WorldWetlands Day 2026;  February 2nd.

 Every 2 February, the World Wetlands Day campaign joins people everywhere in recognising the critical importance of our planet’s wetlands. These life-sustaining ecosystems bridge past and future and are essential to the continuity of life on Earth. World Wetlands Day 2026 explores the deep-rooted connections between wetlands and cultural practices, traditions and knowledge systems of communities across the world. This year’s theme is "Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage." The global campaign spotlights the timeless role of traditional knowledge in sustaining wetland ecosystems and preserving cultural identity. People have coexisted with wetlands since prehistory, making use of their beneficial services while averting unintended consequences. Over time, a valuable depth of traditional knowledge has been deduced, shared and has subsequently evolved. Three fundamental messages guide this year’s campaign communications. We invite you to adapt them for your particular area and to share them widely to encourage participation in World Wetlands Day 2026. 1. Wetlands are essential ecosystems that sustain rich biodiversity and also serve as cradles of cultural heritage and living traditions, particularly for Indigenous Peoples and local communities. 2. Integrating traditional knowledge into conservation strategies enhances wetland protection and fosters inclusive, community-based approaches that recognise and respect longstanding ecological wisdom. 3. The degradation of wetlands undermines human wellbeing, impacts human rights, and erodes traditional knowledge systems. Immediate and scaled-up action is critical to safeguard cultural heritage and to sustain the traditional knowledge systems that have long protected these highly productive ecosystems. Be a part of the solution by influencing change and sharing your stories of conservation and restoration efforts with us from your countries and communities. Engage with us this World Wetlands Day and follow the celebrations across our social media platform.

Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands.

OTHER STATEMENTS:

• Statement from Dr QU Dongyu, Director-General, FAO.
• Statement from Dr. Musonda Mumba, Secretary General, Convention on Wetlands.
• Statement from Astrid Schomaker, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity
• Statement from Dr. Coenraad Krijger, Chief Executive Officer of Wetlands International
• Statement from Mr. Claude Gascon, Interim CEO and Chairperson, Global Environment Facility
• Statement from Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center of Wildlife, Saudi Arabia
• Statement from H.E. U Khin Maung Yi, Union Minister for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, The Republic of the Union of Myanmar
• Statement of Fernanda Samuel, Voice for Wetlands
• Kirsten Schuijt, Director General of WWF International
• Statement from Mr. Mark Smith, Director General of the International Water Management Institute (IWMI).
• Statement by Dr. Grethel Aguilar, Director General of IUCN.
• Statement of Mr. Martin Harper, CEO of BirdLife International.
• Statement from Sarah Fowler, Chief Executive of WWT
• Statement from Prof. Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization
• Statement from Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change
• Statement of Mr. Sergey Dereliev, Executive Secretary Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).
• Statement from Mr. Yvonne Higuero, Secretary General of CITES.

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS

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International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust 2026; January 27th.

FORUM: “Holocaust Remembrance for Dignity and Human Rights.” International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust 2026. Eighty one years ago, in response to the atrocities of the war and the Holocaust, governments of the world established the United Nations, pledging to work together to build a just world where human rights were enshrined, and all could live with dignity, in peace. Acknowledging the milestone year, the Holocaust and the United Nations Outreach Programme has chosen as its guiding theme for 2026, “Holocaust remembrance and education for dignity and human rights”. The theme will reflect on the critical relevance of Holocaust remembrance for the present, where the dignity and human rights of our fellow global citizens are under daily attack. The Holocaust shows what happens when hatred, dehumanization and apathy win. Its remembrance is a bulwark against the denigration of humanity, and a clarion call for collective action to ensure respect for dignity and human rights, and the international law that protects both. Holocaust remembrance safeguards the memories of survivors and their testament of life before the Holocaust – of vibrant communities, of traditions, of hopes and dreams, of loved ones who did not survive. Safeguarding the history brings dignity to those the Nazis and their collaborators sought to destroy. Remembrance of the Holocaust is a victory against the Nazis and their collaborators, and against all who would try to continue their legacy through spreading hatred, Holocaust distortion and denial into the 21st century. Share your reflections with the hashtags: #27January, #HolocaustRemembranceDay, #austwitz, #WeRemember, #HolocaustRemembrance.

COMMEMORATIONS: Join the observance of the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust 2026 on January 27th. Register to participate!

On Thursday, January 29th 2026, starting at 6:00 p.m. the Reception, and 7:00 p.m. the exhibit entitled “Between Life and Death” followed by the Panel discussion entitled “Stories of Rescue During the Holocaust” will be held at the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. The Holocaust survivor Elżbieta Ficowska and historians Jay Winter, Daniel Blatman and Mordecai Paldiel will explore how Holocaust remembrance has evolved, how stories of rescuers and survivors can be shared with younger generations, and how challenges such as disinformation, artificial intelligence, and fading living memory can be addressed. Jayashri Wyatt, Chief, Education Outreach Section at United Nations Department of Global Communications, moderates the discussion. The discussion is jointly organized by the European Network Remembrance and Solidarity (ENRS), YIVO Institute for Jewish Research, the Center for Jewish History, together with the Holocaust and the United Nations Outreach Programme. It is supported by the Sousa Mendes Foundation. Read more and register!

On Tuesday, January 27th, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. 12:30 EST will be held the annual Holocaust Memorial Ceremony, an commemorative event organized in observance of the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust 2026 at the United Nations General Assembly Hall. Four Holocaust survivors will share their experiences of the Holocaust. Guided by the theme, “Holocaust Remembrance for Dignity and Human Rights”, the United Nations Secretary-General, the President of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly and the Permanent Representatives of Israel and the United States to the United Nations, will deliver remarks. Ms. Melissa Fleming, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, will host the proceedings. Watch the livestream!

On Monday, January 26th 2026; from 3:00-4:30 p.m. A high-level panel will explore how emerging technologies, including AI, gaming, and VR, can preserve Holocaust memory, counter denial and distortion, and combat the spread of hate.The panel discussion is organized by the Holocaust and the United Nations together with the World Jewish Congress as part of the programme of activities connected to the 27 January International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust under the theme "Holocaust Remembrance for Dignity and Human Rights". Invited speakers include Professor Victoria Grace Richardson-Walden, Director, The Landecker Digital Memory Lab, University of Sussex and Mr. Luc Bernard, Game designer, The Light in the Darkness. Ms. Yfat Barak-Cheney, Executive Director, Institute for Technology and Human Rights, World Jewish Congress will moderate the discussion. Watch online

STATEMENTS: Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Holocaust Remembrance Service 2026; January 27th.

Excellencies, dear friends,

I am deeply honoured to join you and humbled by the presence of Holocaust survivors and their families.

We gather in solemn remembrance of the victims of the Holocaust.

They were mothers and fathers.

Sons and daughters.

Grandparents and grandchildren.

Six million Jews murdered just because they were Jewish.

We also grieve the Roma and Sinti, the people with disabilities, LGBTQI+ people, and so many more who were enslaved, persecuted, tortured, and killed.

And we also remember the stories and struggles of those who confronted the worst of humanity to show us the best.

Diplomats who defied orders and issued life saving visas.

Journalists who fought to expose the truth.

And farmers and villagers who hid families at great peril.

Remembrance is more than honouring the past.
It is a duty and a promise: to defend dignity, to protect the vulnerable, and to keep faith with those whose names and stories we refuse to forget.

The Holocaust, after all, is not only history.

It is a warning.

A warning that hatred, once unleashed, can consume everything.

Excellencies, dear friends,

Today that warning feels more urgent than ever.

Antisemitism around the world is raging.

Jewish communities live in fear.

Synagogues attacked.

Families shattered.

Vile antisemitic hatred racing across cyberspace.

We are haunted by the horrific terror attack of October 7 — which I once again categorically condemn — along with the taking of hostages, and the acts of hatred targeting Jews around the world in recent years, and, indeed, in recent weeks.

But coming together as we have come today, to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust fills me with hope.

I see the power of humanity in all of you.

I see the courage of survivors who turned pain into purpose.

I see the commitment of young people — of every faith and nation — standing together against hate.

I see the strength of solidarity when communities unite.

You are here because you choose hope over hate.

You choose remembrance as a living force — a shield against prejudice, a spark for justice, a pledge to protect every human being.

Excellencies, dear friends,

This show of unity is more important than ever.

Because we know the Holocaust is a stark demonstration of the dangers of unchecked hatred.

The Holocaust did not begin with killing.

It began with words.

Its architects telegraphed their evil intentions.

They deliberately spread a hateful, supremacist ideology that preyed on fear and economic despair.

This powerful engine of hate was given fuel through the systematic dismantling of democratic institutions, the stifling of the press, the persecution of civil society, the corruption of courts, and the erosion of the rule of law.

It included a mastery of the technology of the time.

Controlling information.

Deploying propaganda and manipulating public discourse.

Spreading antisemitic and racist hatred with devastating efficiency.

And we must never forget the painful truth that Jewish families who sought refuge were met with the cold shoulder of indifference, closed borders and bureaucratic barriers.

This dark chapter of our common history reveals sobering truths.

When those with power fail to act, evil goes unpunished.

When the past is distorted, denied and weaponized, hatred and prejudice fester.

When words become weapons, lies, conspiracies, the casual joke and the coded slur can grow until the unthinkable becomes policy and violence.

So let us together pledge to stand against antisemitism and all forms of hatred — and against bigotry, racism and discrimination anywhere and everywhere.

Excellencies, dear friends,

This is the tenth time I have had the privilege as Secretary-General to address you on this day of remembrance.

For me, Holocaust remembrance — and the fight against the ancient poison of antisemitism — is not abstract.

It is personal.

One of my personal achievements as Prime Minister of Portugal was working with Parliament to adopt a decree that revoked the 16th century expulsion of Jews from my country.

I am happy to see tens of thousands of descendants of those expelled families regaining Portuguese nationality.

This was a symbolic step — but one that demonstrated the importance of acknowledging the depth of our remorse, even the remorse for the crimes of our country, remorse for the past, and our commitment to build a better, more inclusive future.

A commitment that goes to the core of what brings us here today in memory of the victims of the Holocaust.

As Secretary-General, I remember standing in Yad Vashem, confronted by the immense weight of memory and the countless lives extinguished in the darkness of hatred.

I have prayed together with the Jewish community in the aftermath of atrocious acts of violence and antisemitism.

I have heard testimonies from Holocaust survivors about their experiences that began with a knock on the door — and ended with lives erased.

And I have always understood the clear link between the horrors of the Holocaust and the spirit of multilateralism, justice and rights that founded our organization.

Excellencies, dear friends,

Just over 80 years ago, the Nuremberg trials began.

These trials represented the beginning of a new era in international criminal law.

An era in which individuals, including the most powerful, are held accountable.

Today, more than ever, we need to reclaim that spirit.

At the opening of Nuremberg, Justice Robert H. Jackson warned us:

“These prisoners represent sinister influences that will lurk in the world long after their bodies have returned to dust.”

These influences — antisemitism, racism, hatred — are very much still with us.

Our duty is clear:

To speak the truth.

To educate new generations.

To confront antisemitism and all forms of hatred and discrimination.

And to defend the dignity of every human being.

But it is also our duty to keep alive the spirit of acting in common purpose, through multilateralism, to ensure that the forces of humanity always triumph over the forces of inhumanity.

Let us honour the memory of the victims of the Holocaust by recommitting to justice, dignity, compassion and vigilance.

To a world where humanity stands united against oppression.

And where the terrible legacy of the past strengthens our resolve to protect human rights today and in the future.

Let us forever carry in our hearts the Holocaust’s victims, whose calls for justice and peace can never be extinguished.

May their memory be a blessing.

Thank you.

LIVESTREAM:

The United Nations Headquarters observance on the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust 2026 will take place on Tuesday, January 27th. Ms. Melissa Fleming, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications will host the proceedings. The observance will feature Holocaust survivors sharing their testimonies, and official remarks by the Secretary-General, the President of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly and Representatives of the Permanent Missions of Israel and the United States to the United Nations.

   

Commemorative ceremony to mark of the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust 2026 at the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV)

   

At UN GENEVA This Day was chosen to mark the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in 1945.

 

GALLERY PHOTOS:  

UNHQ, New York.

General Assembly on the Observance of the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust.

UN GENEVA

AT UNOV Vienna

PERMANENT MISSION OF RUSSIA TO THE U.N.

On January 27, 1944, Leningrad was completely liberated from the Nazi blockade.