International Human Space flight Day 2026; April 12th.

FORUM: 65th anniversary of the First Human Space Flight of Yuri Gagarin; Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Gagarin65; #ForeverFirst; #12April, #Humanspaceflight,

EVENT: On April 13th, 2026, Date: April 13, 2026 from 12:00 to 13:00 GMT at the "Palais des Nations", a solemn ceremony of laying flowers will be held in the UN Office in Geneva (Ariana Park) at the "Conquest of Space" monument in honor of the 65th anniversary of the First Human Space Flight of Yuri Gagarin. Russian Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, Ambassador Gennady Gatilov and Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva Tatiana Valovaya will open the event with their welcoming speeches. The monument was officially donated to the UN by the USSR Minister of Culture, Yekaterina Furtseva, on July 20, 1971. The participants of the upcoming ceremony will pay a tribute to the feat of Yuri Gagarin, as well as the heroic and selfless work of all those who made the First Human Space Flight possible. Anyone wishing to visit the event (especially those who do not have permanent UN accreditation) must register to participate and activate the badge at the Pregny Gate.

See you at the ceremony!

2026 International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda; April 7th.

Statement of the U.N. Secretary General on the 2026 Commemoration of the International day of reflexion the 1994 Genocide against the Tsutis in Rwanda.

Thirty-two years ago, Rwanda endured one of the darkest chapters in human history. In just 100 days, more than a million people were murdered – primarily Tutsi, but also Hutu and others who opposed the genocide. Entire families were brutally erased.


On the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda, we mourn the victims and honour their stolen dignity. We pay tribute to the survivors, whose resilience shows the strength of the human spirit. And we recall, with humility and shame, the international community’s failure to heed warnings and take immediate lifesaving action.


It’s not enough to remember the dead. We must learn from past failures and protect the living – by rejecting hatred, inflammatory rhetoric and incitement to violence; by investing in the social fabric to deepen community resilience; and by strengthening institutions that help prevent mass atrocities. I call on all countries to become parties to the Genocide Convention without delay – and to implement it fully.

The United Nations stands with the people of Rwanda. And we stand with all those, everywhere, who refuse to surrender our future to fear, division, or silence.


Let this day reaffirm our commitment to remember, to listen, and to act. With history as our guide, and the prevention of genocide as our goal.

U.N. Secretary General.

On April 9th at the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV); Starting at 14:45 PM GMT, The Commemorative ceremony to mark the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

Watch the UNOV Celebration of the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda!

01:42:41

Meetings & Events

On April 7th, Starting at 09:00 AM GMT; The Director-General of UNON in collaboration with the Rwanda High Commission will be leading to mark the 32nd Anniversary of International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

Watch the 32nd Anniversary of The International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda!

01:55:29 - Meetings & Events.

On April 7th; Starting at 16:00 PM EST; The Memorial Ceremony to commemorate the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda, organized by the Department of Global Communications and the Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the United Nations.

Watch the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda - Annual Commemoration!

On Tuesday, 7 April 2026, at 10:00 a.m. EDT in the General Assembly Hall, United Nations Headquarters. 2026 marks the 32nd anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, one of the darkest chapters in human history. More than one million people - overwhelmingly Tutsi, but also Hutu and others who opposed the genocide - were systematically killed in less than three months. On this Day, we honour those who were murdered and reflect on the suffering of those who survived. The Department of Global Communications in cooperation with the Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the United Nations, will hold a ceremony to commemorate the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Ms. Melissa Fleming, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications will host the proceedings. Speakers will include the Chef de Cabinet, the President of the General Assembly, a representative of the African Union and the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Republic of Rwanda. The commemoration will also feature remarks by the President of Ibuka USA, testimony of a genocide survivor, the lighting of memorial candles and musical elements.

Related Sites and Documents: Website & Programme (pdf), 01:25:32 High-level Events

On April 7th, starting at 16:00 PM EST, the United Nations Office at Geneva will commemorate the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, which was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003. The United Nations Office at Geneva will commemorate the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, which was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003. 7 April marks the beginning of the genocide perpetrated against members of the Tutsi minority by the Hutu extremist-led government. Within just over 100 days, more than 1 million Tutsi were systematically murdered. Moderate Hutu and others who opposed the massacres were also killed during this period.

Related Sites and Documents: More Information.

Watch the Kwibuka 32 - Commemoration at the UN in Geneva!

01:20:15 Meetings & Events

World Health Day 2026; April 7th.

FORUM: "Together for Health. Stand with Science." World Health Day 2026. In a world facing complex health threats, WHO calls on everyone to stand with science – by engaging with evidence, facts, and science-based guidance to protect health. Science serves everyone, everywhere. The WHO and its partners work around the clock to generate scientific knowledge on key health priorities from healthy diets to water, sanitation, vaccines and medicines, infections, chronic conditions and mental health; sharing evidence, strengthening countries’ research capacities and systems for more equitable access to health care. Be part of this work, contributing with experiences from you and your community’s perspective, to ensure science-led public health benefits more people to guide future health policies. Our health has improved substantially over the past 100 years – thanks to scientific innovations. The future will be shaped based on how we develop and practice science-led approaches for the health of all – not only humans, but also animals, plants, ecosystems and the entire planet – through the One Health approach. Follow the conversation with the hashtags #Worldhealthday, #Health, #Together4health, #standwithscience, #sdg3.

EVENTS: This World Health Day 2026, the G7 Presidency of France will host the International One Health Summit. Bringing together Heads of State, global leaders, scientists and community representatives, the Summit will showcase how science and political commitment can drive a new way forward for safeguarding the health of the planet.

Science powers health – One Health.

From 5 – 7 April 2026; The One Health Summit plowing by a "one health" intervention will be held in Lyon, France. Progress in public health is built on global solidarity and collaboration. WHO’s ability to connect science with real-life practice in communities and countries around the world is powered through its network of 800 collaborating centres. They are national institutions working in specialized fields such as radiation, influenza, nursing, bioethics, and occupational health, among many others.

The organizers' call on everyone to stand up and speak for science sharing their experiences of how facts, evidence and science-based interventions improve their health and the health of their loved ones.

Stand with science – WHO and its collaborating centres in over 80 countries.

From 7 to 9 April 2026 will be held the Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres entitled '' Collaborating for a healthier future.'' The Forum will highlight how its unique and powerful scientific network drives health impact that touches every person’s life.

Learn how to attend the International One Health Summit and the Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres.

PUBLICATIONS: Creating Healthy Lives— The Future of Medical Innovation. Published by the WIPO. Medical innovations are critical for closing the gaps in global healthcare provision. These innovations are happening across multiple dimensions. The key questions addressed in this edition of the GII include: 

• What is the potential impact of medical innovation on society and economic growth, and what obstacles must be overcome to reach that potential? 

• How is the global landscape for research and development (R&D) and medical innovation changing?

• What health challenges do future innovations need to address and what types of breakthroughs are on the horizon? 

• What are the main opportunities and obstacles to future medical innovation and what role might new policies play?

 Five key messages emerge: 

1. High quality and affordable healthcare for all is important for sustainable economic growth and the overall quality of life of citizens. While significant progress has been achieved across many dimensions over the last decades, significant gaps in access to quality healthcare for large parts of the global population remain. 

2. Medical innovations are critical for closing the gaps in global healthcare provision. These innovations are happening across multiple dimensions, including core sciences, drug development, care delivery, and organizational and business models. In particular, medical technology related innovations are blossoming, with medical technology patents more numerous and growing at a faster path than pharmaceutical patents for the last decade. However, some challenges need to be overcome—notably, a decline in pharmaceutical R&D productivity and a prolonged process for deploying health innovations due to complex health ecosystems. 

3. The convergence of digital and biological technologies is disrupting healthcare and increasing the importance of data integration and management across the healthcare ecosystem. New digital health strategies need to focus on creating data infrastructure and processes for efficient and safe data collection, management, and sharing. 

4. Emerging markets have a unique opportunity to leverage medical innovations and invest in new healthcare delivery models to close the healthcare gap with more developed markets. Caution should be taken to ensure that new health innovations, and their related costs, do not exacerbate the health gap between the rich and poor. 

5. To maximize the potential for future health innovation, it is important to encourage collaboration across key actors, increase funding from public and private sources, establish and maintain a skilled health workforce, and carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of medical innovations.

GET INVOLVED!

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace 2026; April 6th.

FORUM:  “Sport: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers". International Day of Sport for Development and Peace 2026. The United Nations will mark the IDSDP on April 6th, reaffirming the transformative role of sport in promoting social inclusion, health, equality and sustainable development worldwide. This year’s observance will be held under the theme: “Sport: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers". The theme underscores the critical role of sport as a universal language that transcends borders, cultures and socio-economic barriers. It highlights how inclusive access to sport can empower individuals and communities, particularly those in vulnerable situations, including persons with disabilities, women and girls, youth, and marginalized populations. Sport continues to serve as a powerful tool for fostering social cohesion, promoting tolerance, and combating discrimination. Across diverse contexts, from schools and communities to elite competitions, sport creates opportunities to build confidence, develop life skills, and strengthen community bonds. In line with global commitments to “leave no one behind,” this year’s Day calls for renewed efforts to ensure equitable access to safe, inclusive and accessible sporting environments for all. This includes addressing structural barriers, investing in community-based programmes, and promoting inclusive policies that enable participation regardless of age, gender, ability or background. Follow the conversations with the hashtags;: #6April, #Sport4SDGs, #SportForAll, #IDSDP2025, #sport4SocialInclusion, #SportDay, #EveryoneIncluded.

EVENTS: On April 6th. The observance of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace 2026 will highlight the importance of integrating sport into broader development strategies, including education, health, and social protection systems. Governments, civil society, the private sector and the United Nations system are encouraged to scale up partnerships and initiatives that harness sport as a driver of sustainable development. Building on recent global commitments, including those emerging from the Second World Summit for Social Development, the 2026 observance emphasizes the need to translate policy commitments into concrete actions that deliver measurable impact on the ground. Register to participate!

On and around April 6th, stakeholders around the world are invited to organize events, campaigns and activities that celebrate the unifying power of sport and promote its role in advancing peace and development. From grassroots initiatives to high-level dialogues, the Day provides an opportunity to showcase good practices and inspire collective action. As the international community accelerates efforts toward the 2030 Agenda, the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace serves as a timely reminder: sport is not only a game, it is a catalyst for inclusion, equality and lasting social change.

On April 8th, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM EST, at United Nations Headquarters, conference room II, a side-event entitled ''Sports for Peace and Development: Leveraging Sport for Youth Empowerment and Prevention of Violent Extremism'' will be held. This event will examine how sports development initiatives can be leveraged more systematically as part of broader strategies for youth empowerment, prevention of violence and extremism, and the promotion of inclusive and peaceful societies. It will provide a platform for Member States and stakeholders to exchange experiences, highlight best practices, and explore opportunities for strengthened partnerships. Read the concept note!

LIVESTREAM : Across many regions, young people living in conditions of poverty, marginalization, an limited access to education and employment remain particularly vulnerable to recruitment by violent extremist groups and involvement in crime and violence. These structural conditions, compounded by social exclusion and lack of opportunity, create environments where youth may be drawn toward destructive pathways, with implications for peace, stability, and sustainable development. In this context, sport has emerged as a practical and effective tool for prevention. There is increasing recognition within the United Nations system of the role of sport in advancing peace and security objectives, including in preventing violent extremism and promoting social cohesion. Well-designed sports programs can strengthen community resilience, support youth engagement, and contribute to addressing root causes of instability. 01:26:28

International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 2026; April 4th.

FORUM: “Invest in peace, Invest in mine action” International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 2026. Mines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices continue to cause death and injury, especially in situations of armed conflict. On average, one person is killed or injured by such explosive device every hour. Many children are among the victims. The use of improvised explosive devices has expanded, terrorizing civilians and threatening humanitarian actors and United Nations missions and personnel. In 2026, the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action will be commemorated under the theme "Invest in Peace; Invest in Mine Action." This theme draws out the foundational importance of lands being cleared from explosive threats and communities living in the absence of fear from these indiscriminate weapons for peace to be able to prosper. Mine action saves lives, provides security, restores dignity, unlocks land for productive use, and creates the conditions for long-term stability. It transforms hazardous land into safe, productive spaces. It enables humanitarian access, facilitates development, supports stabilization efforts, and lays the groundwork for durable peace. Investing in mine action is therefore not only a technical necessity - it is a strategic investment in peacebuilding, recovery, and sustainable development.Follow the conversation with the hashtags:#InvestInMineAction; #IMAD2026, #safefuturesstarthere, #MineAwareness; #landmines; #4april; #Mineaction.

EVENTS:  On April 1st, 2026, from 17.45 - 19.30 ET, organized by the Permanent Mission of Norway to the United Nations, at the United Nations Headquarters; a Film Festival will be held at the 1 Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza, 35th Floor - 885 2nd Avenue, between 47th and 48th Street New York, NY 10017 *This event is by invitation.

OPT | Watch Here

South Sudan (1) | Watch Here

South Sudan (2) | Watch Here

Sudan | Watch Here

Syria |

Watch Here

Ukraine | Watch Here

View event pictures here

WORLDWIDE CELEBRATIONS: Several Events had been organized at UNHQ and around the world to highlight the progress and challenges in mine action and to mark the International Day for Mine Awareneness and Assistance in Mine Action 2026. Demining and Mine Action is not only about removing explosives from the ground. It’s about: Restoring safety; enabling opportunities; Protecting communities; Rebuilding trust and the foundations of lasting peace It's time to Invest In Mine Action. Register to participate!

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC - 3 April 2026, from (08:30 – 12:00): Official inauguration of the ANMAA premises and Open Day, to mark its operationalization. 2 April 2026, from (10:00 – 12:00): Workshop/panel discussion focused on Victim Assistance, bringing together national authorities, partners, and civil society actors. Media engagement: Radio broadcasts and awareness-raising programmes will be conducted on national stations. Visibility and communication campaign:Recording and dissemination of radio spots during the week of 23 March 2026 Public billboards/display panels across Bangui from 30 March to 27 April 2026

COLOMBIA, On 4 April Start of  the MAC's digital campaign.

8 April -  Panel discussion and photo exhibition (pillars of Mine Action) for National Day of Remembrance and Solidarity with the Victims of the Armed Conflict. Initiative of two NGOs of the Mine Action sector.
10 April - Event and exhibition regarding 4 April, co-organized by the national mine action sector and UNMAS.
Commemorative Gathering: Memory and Action Against Anti-Personnel Mines, a solemn space for reflection, recognition, and awareness about the humanitarian impact of these devices in Colombia.
15 April -  Launch of our technical paper on weaponized drones, event at UN House.
Launch date tbd
Relaunch of UNMAS-led radio and social media campaign on humanitarian access to promote humanitarian access and respect for the work of mine action organizations in Colombia.

IRAQ - 1- Photo exhibition in collaboration with the Iraqi Kurdistan Mine Action Agency (IKMAA) in Erbil. 2- Publishing the UNMAS Iraq Annual Report. 3- "Thank you" social media campaign to our donors.

SOMALIA  - Interactive Mine Awareness Event inside UNSOS Camp (5 April): Since 4 April falls on a Saturday, we will host an interactive showcase at the UNSOS camp on Sunday, 5 April (10:00 am – 3:00 pm). Supported by a mission-wide broadcast, our teams will demonstrate mine action tools and share expertise on our mandate. Watch how explosive detection dogs work silently and precisely, saving lives everyday in Somalia.

SOUTH SUDAN - On Thursday, 2 April 2026  from 09:00 to 12:00 at the  Pyramid Hotel, Juba, join the commemoration of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

EXHIBIT: Explore the Digital exhibition entitled'' Signs of Safety''.

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the  International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 2026; April 4th.

Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices exact a devastating toll on civilians, especially children. As conflicts multiply and military spending skyrockets, these dangers are deepening.

These weapons do not disappear when the fighting is over. They lurk in fields in Colombia, Ethiopia, Lebanon and Myanmar; amid the rubble in Gaza; and in communities across Syria. They kill thousands each year and injure a great many more – often long after conflict ends.

Mine action plays a critical role in places where peace is fragile, the humanitarian response urgent, and development precarious. It allows the UN and its partners to work in greater safety and enables ravaged communities to recover and rebuild.

On this International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, I call on all Member States to join and adhere to the relevant instruments – including the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention – and urge those that have withdrawn to rejoin. Failing to preserve these vital instruments will only weaken civilian protections and add to the 100 million innocent lives already in peril.

This year’s theme – “Invest in peace, Invest in mine action” – highlights the need to accelerate mine clearance, enhance risk education, expand victim assistance, reduce weapons stockpiles and advocate for a mine-free world.

We must eradicate the threat posed by these weapons – so all people everywhere can live in safety and with hope.

United Nations Secretary-general.

PRESS CONFERENCES: With the UNMAS representatives on International Mine Awareness Day 2026 and UNMAS work going on in Ukraine and Afghanistan and beyond.

00:35:43

Press Conference by Kazumi Ogawa, Director of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), Paul Heslop, UNMAS Special Adviser to the Resident Coordinator and United Nations Country Team in Ukraine (both in-person) and Nick Pond, Chief of Mine Action Section for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) (virtual from Kabul), on the International Mine Awareness Day 2026 and the work going on in Ukraine and Afghanistan and beyond.

 

Ethiopia & Sudan: Mine Action - Press Conference at the United Nations Headquarters - A UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) spokesperson said, “There are many crises in the world today that are taking up attention and resources, but neglecting countries on the path to peace will result in them sliding back to war.” Rob Syfret, Chief of the UN Mine Action Programme in Ethiopia, and Mohammad Sediq Rashid (joining virtually from Khartoum), Chief of the UN Mine Action Programme in Sudan, addressed the press in New York. Syfret said, “Ethiopia at the moment, risks becoming the forgotten post conflict. There are many crises in the world today that are taking up attention and resources, but neglecting countries on the path to peace will result in them sliding back to war.” He continued, “The fighting left areas of the country littered with explosive remnants of war that continue to kill and maim civilians four years after the Pretoria agreement ended the conflict. The resources that required to solve the problem are ebbing away and being directed to more high-profile current events as the crisis caravan moves on to follow the headlines.” He stressed, “Ethiopia is the largest country in the Horn of Africa, and if it falls into conflict again there will be a vast region of instability stretching from the Red Sea to the borders of Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Kenya. Some resources need to be focused on trying to prevent this. And what better way than by removing and destroying explosive remnants of war so they cannot be converted into IEDs, so they cannot be repaired and put back into service as weapons of war?” He added, “Humanitarian mine action has proved that there is the capability to solve this problem if the funds to employ people to do the work are available. In areas contaminated with explosive ordnance, it is foundational to almost every single one of the Sustainable Development Goals to clear it. Yet, time and again, it becomes the forgotten problem, a specialist issue that is easier to ignore than to understand.” He concluded, “My counterparts in the Ethiopian mine action office are doing a fine job but continue to need our support.” Mohammad Sediq Rashid, Chief of the UN Mine Action Programme in Sudan, said that the scale and nature of contamination in the country is alarming, “because this war is fought in the cities.” He added, “As families begin to return, they are doing so into a highly dangerous environment, often without awareness of the risks.” He also said, “The conflict is ongoing, and in many areas, intensifying. The continued use of heavy weapons, including unmanned aerial systems. This means contamination is increasing day by day.” He said, “We estimate that around 14 million people are at risk from explosive hazards. This includes civilians, returnees and humanitarian workers.” He concluded, “Sudan was already dealing with legacy contamination from decades of conflict. The current war is adding a new and complex layer of contamination across densely populated areas. On our response, the mine action program has been severely impacted by the conflict, including the loss of critical equipment. It had one stage last year, the program faced the risk of shutting down due to funding constraints, while the response is now gradually regaining momentum, it remains far below what is required.” Established in 1997, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) leads, coordinates, and implements projects and programmes to mitigate the threat posed by explosive ordnance. In recent years, UNMAS has supported and continues to provide assistance in Abyei, Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Colombia, Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, the State of Palestine, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, the Territory of Western Sahara and Yemen.

Mines and explosive devices kill or injure a person every hour. Many of them are children. I urge States to accede to or rejoin the Ottawa Treaty and invest in Mine Action to protect communities, support survivors, and rebuild lives. Mr.Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS:  Get the poster and the IMAD 2026 Digital Assets.

World Autism Awareness Day 2026; April 2nd.

FORUM: "Autism and Humanity, Every Life has value." World Autism Awareness Day 2026. Globally, 1 in 127 people is diagnosed with autism, a lifelong neuro-developmental condition affecting social interaction, communication and behaviour. Autism is among the top 10 brain health conditions contributing to health loss globally. Despite international human rights conventions, autistic people still face stigma, discrimination and barriers to participation. Access to timely, quality health care and support services remains limited, driving inequalities across the life course. Addressing these challenges requires sustained action and greater investment in inclusive policies and services that uphold the rights of autistic people. Evidence shows that early identification, inclusive education and nurturing care in families and communities can significantly improve health, well-being and participation. This year’s discussion explores the role of neurodiversity in shaping policies that advance health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, economic opportunity, reduced inequalities, sustainable communities, and strong institutions.

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


This World Autism Awareness Day, we celebrate the inherent dignity and worth of all autistic people.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities makes it clear that all of us, regardless of neurodiversity or other differences, are members of the human family, entitled to enjoy the entire range of human rights. Yet in turbulent times, harmful stigmas are resurfacing and eroding the progress we have made towards inclusion and equality.

Like anyone else, autistic people should be able to shape their own lives — and help to shape our shared future. They bring talents, perspectives and contributions that make the world a better place.

Through equal education, fair employment, and accessible health systems, we can ensure that autistic people have the opportunities they deserve to participate and thrive.

Embracing diversity strengthens us all. Today and every day, let us reaffirm our common humanity and renew our commitment to a more inclusive world for all.

United Nations Secretary-General.

EVENTS: On the occasion on World Autism Day 2026, the WHO joins families and communities worldwide in recognizing the dignity and worth of all autistic people and advocating for policies that promote neuroinclusive environments in health, education, workplaces, sports and other sectors.

On April 27th, 2026; a webinar will be held to mark the launch of a new WHO caregiver well-being training for children with developmental delays and neuro-developmental conditions, which highlights practical approaches to supporting caregivers and strengthening inclusive care.

WHO’s efforts focus on increasing government commitment to improve quality of life for autistic people and strengthen data informed decision making; providing guidance on inclusive policies and action plans within broader health, mental health, brain health and disability frameworks;, and strengthening community-based services. 

CAMPAIGN:Let's promote inclusive environments and provide support for autistic people and their caregivers.

LIVESTREAM: The 2026 observance of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) highlights and affirms the dignity and worth of all autistic people as part of our shared human future. At a time when misinformation and regressive rhetoric about the lives of autistic people is resurfacing, this year’s virtual event is a call to action to move beyond limiting narratives and to recognize the inherent dignity, equal rights, and unconditional worth of every autistic person. Grounded in the principles of human rights and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this vision sees the inclusion of neurodiversity as crucial to sustainable development. When societies embrace neurodiversity, they strengthen creativity, resilience, and innovation, laying the foundation for more just, inclusive, and sustainable communities.  The 2026 WAAD event is organized by the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), with the support of the United Nations Department of Global Communications.

(Part 1) World Autism Awareness Day 2026: “Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Value”.

Welcome and Opening Remarks: Speakers 

• Melissa Fleming, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications 
• Charlotte Valuer, founder and CEO, Institute of Neurodiversity ION

(Part 2) World Autism Awareness Day 2026: “Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Value”.

REFRAMING THE NARRATIVE: FROM CURE TO SHARED FUTURE

Keynote: Brian Bird (Europe) 

Panel Moderator: Charlotte Valuer (Europe)

 Dr. Clarisse Fortes (Latin America) 

Shaheda Moosa (Africa) 

Sudhansu Grover (Asia) 

Keynote: Fatima de Kwant (Europe) WAAD CHINA 

Keynote: Damien Green (Asia)

(Part 3) World Autism Awareness Day 2026: “Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Value”.
GLOBAL YOUTH VOICES 

Keynote: Hari Srinivasan (North America/Asia)

Panel Moderator: 

Charlotte Valeur (Europe)

Ayanwole Boluwatife Joshua (Africa) 

Vincent Obisie-Orlu (Africa) 

Hector Mendonça Ishikawa (North America) 

Martin Cortes Araneda (Latin America) 

CLOSING REMARKS Charlotte Valeur (Europe)

International Day of Zero Waste 2026; March 30th.

FORUM: “Food Waste.” International Day of Zero Waste 2026. This year’s observance focuses on food waste, a critical yet preventable driver of environmental harm. The world is wasting food at an alarming scale, undermining food security and slowing progress toward a zero-waste, circular future. In 2022 alone, approximately 1 billion tonnes of food, nearly one-fifth of all food available to consumers, was wasted. Food loss and waste represent a major climate and environmental threat. They account for up to 10% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, nearly five times the emissions from the aviation sector, and up to 14 per cent of global methane emissions. Tackling food waste is among the most cost-effective and readily achievable climate solutions, aligned with zero-waste approaches that prioritize prevention, resource efficiency and systemic change. Governments, businesses, and individuals must embrace zero waste to overcome the waste pollution crisis. UNEP and UN-Habitat call on stakeholders – including governments, civil society, businesses, academia, communities, women and youth – to participate in national, subnational, regional and local zero-waste initiatives. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #sdg12, #zerowasteDay, #30March.

Message from the UN Secretary-General on Zero Waste Day 2026.

Message by the UN Environment Programme Executive Director on Zero Waste Day 2026.

Message of UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach on International Day of Zero Waste 2026.

EVENTS: On March 27th, 2026 Starting at 15:00 PM. EST, For this year's International Day of Zero Waste, the High level event focus is on food – what we eat, what we waste, and how we can move towards a more circular future. The New York Observance of the International Day of Zero Waste 2026, facilitated in-person, serves as a platform to underscore the critical importance of collective action in driving forward zero-waste initiatives, to Increase knowledge about the potential of zero-waste solutions to promote sustainability and equity. With young entrepreneurs and communities' initiatives to Promoting zero-waste initiatives through this international day can help advance all the goals and targets in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including Sustainable Development Goal 11 and Sustainable Development Goal 12. These goals address all forms of waste, including food loss and waste, natural resource extraction and electronic waste. Get the Concept note and register to participate!

Worldwide observance of the International Day of Zero Waste 2026. To celebrate the Fourth annual International Day of Zero Waste, offices and partners from around the world are invited to organize activities and events, including creative exhibits, panel discussions, social media campaigns, training sessions and waste collection drives. Explore the list of upcoming worldwide activities, conferences and workshops and the events maps!

On March 26th, 2026 at the Consulate of Switzerland in Osaka, Japan, from 18:00 - 20:00 EST. Youth workshop: Less Waste, More Life; Organizers: UNEP, Swissnex. This interactive workshop invites young people to explore food waste not as an individual failure, but as a shared challenge shaped by culture, daily practices, and system design. Through reflection and dialogue, participants will identify small, realistic changes in their everyday routines that can help reduce food waste while enhancing quality of life. Register here

On March 27th at UN Headquarters, New York, from 15:00 - 18:00 EST; The Zero Food Waste Challenge: Breakthroughs and Innovative Approaches; Organizers: UNEP, UN-Habitat, Republic of Türkiye, Zero Waste Foundation. The UNEP and UN-Habitat, in partnership with the Republic of Türkiye and the Zero Waste Foundation, will convene a high-level event at United Nations Headquarters to discuss breakthroughs, innovative strategies and approaches to zero waste in food value chains. Stakeholders from across the value chain will share concrete approaches, strategies, technologies, trends, gaps and opportunities to significantly reduce food waste and loss. Watch live

On March 30th, 2026 at Room V, Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland from 14:30 - 15:30 CET. Towards Zero Food Waste Through Multi-stakeholder Action. Organizers: UNEP, UN-Habitat, Geneva Environment Network, Türkiye. To mark the 2026 edition of the International Day of Zero Waste, leading voices from Geneva and beyond will join this panel to highlight progress in advancing the zero-waste agenda, with a focus on key initiatives to reduce food waste. As a major global hub for the governance of hazardous substances, Geneva is home to a wide range of international, intergovernmental, non-governmental, and private sector organizations working towards achieving zero waste, including in the food sector. Register here

On March 30th, 2026; Virtual event from 13:30 - 15:00 CET. Mobilizing Tourism to Halve Food Waste through Recipe of Change. Organizers: UNEP, UN Tourism. The High-level Global Roundtable, co-organized by UNEP and UN Tourism, will convene key tourism stakeholders to accelerate sector-wide action on food waste reduction and circularity. It will bring together policymakers and leading businesses to exchange practical solutions and align efforts towards their implementation through the Recipe of Change initiative. Recipe of Change offers a structured framework to support tourism stakeholders in translating global ambitions on food waste into measurable and reportable action. Through the initiative, partners assess and monitor food waste in their operations, implement operational and behaviour-focused solutions to prevent waste, and track progress over time to inform global monitoring and collective learning. Register here

On March 30th, 2026, Virtual event from 13:00 - 14:15 UTC. Zero Waste Starts on Your Plate: Beating Pollution of Food Waste led by Youth. Organizers: Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP, Youth Advisory Board (YAB) to UN-Habitat, Food and Agriculture Organization - Office of Sustainable Development Goals, UNEP One Planet Network. In the lead-up to the 2026 International Day of Zero Waste, the Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP will convene a virtual event to foster dialogue, bridge perspectives, and take stock of key actions needed to advance the zero-waste agenda. Bringing together youth, experts, and stakeholders, the event will focus on promoting solutions to food waste and sustainable consumption, while strengthening youth engagement in global environmental governance. Aligned with the priorities of the United Nations Environment Programme, it will also serve as a platform to consolidate youth-driven recommendations and accelerate collective action in support of the International Day of Zero Waste 2026. Register here

On March 30th, 2026, virtual event from 12:00 - 13:00 CEST. Unlocking Climate and Investment Opportunities: Environmentally Sound Management of Food Waste; Organizers: Household Waste Partnership (HWP) of the Basel Convention, French Solid Waste Partnership (FSWP), International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), Secretariat of the Basel Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions. Food and organic waste represent one of the fastest and most cost-effective opportunities for climate action available today. When mismanaged, they are a major source of methane. When managed well, they present a powerful opportunity for climate mitigation, public health benefits and sustainable investment, thus the webinar will explore how the environmentally sound management (ESM) of household waste, in particular food and other organic waste, can contribute to global climate goals. Register here.

On March30th, 2026 at the Zero Waste Foundation Headquarters, Istanbul, Türkiye from 11:00 - 13:00;Zero waste starts on your plate. Organizers: UNEP, UN-Habitat, UNDP, Zero Waste Foundation and Co-organized by UNEP, UNDP, UN-Habitat and the Zero Waste Foundation, the Istanbul Commemoration of the 2026 International Zero Waste Day, under the theme “Zero waste starts on your plate,” will bring together high-level representatives from governments, international organizations and key stakeholders to accelerate action on food waste prevention and advance sustainable consumption and production.

On March30th, 2026| Sanya, Hainan / Qingdao, Shandong / Nanchang Jiangxi, China, Offline | Online | from 08:30 - 18:30 CST. Mobilizing Urban Action for Global Goals Towards Zero Food Waste. Organizers: UNEP, UN-Habitat, Basel Convention Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific, Department of Ecology and Environment of Hainan Province. This event brings together international experts and city representatives to explore critical issues and innovative solutions in global solid waste management, with a special focus on advancing zero-waste city construction, food waste reduction, and international cooperation toward sustainable urban action. Register here.

On March31st, 2026 at the UNEP Headquarters, Nairobi, Kenyavfrom 12:00 - 14:00 EAT. TheSecond Life Table: A Communal Experience on Waste and Possibility; Organizers: UNEP, UN-Habitat, Republic of Türkiye. This event is a dynamic, cocktail-style installation that blends visual art, live culinary demonstration, and social interaction. Guests are invited to move through the space, engaging with the installation and each other throughout the two-hour activation, which opens with a panel discussion. At its core, the experience features a live cooking challenge where chefs transform commonly discarded ingredients and imperfect produce—sourced from Farm to Feed—into creative dishes, highlighting both household food waste and often-overlooked losses at the producer level. Through layered encounters of conversation, visual storytelling, and shared food, the event fosters reflection and dialogue on more sustainable food systems. Register here

Run your own physical and virtual events in the days surrounding Zero Waste Day to complement the theme. From March 1st to April 5th, you can organize your own event and have it to be featured on Zero Waste Day's global map. This could include everything from seminars and webinars discussing global waste issues, to repair workshops and cafés, clothing swaps, sustainable fashion showcases and exhibitions, clean ups and more. You can also visit the map to see other events you could attend yourself too! Register your event here and Explore the Zero Waste Day event map.

LIVESTREAM: International Day of Zero Waste 2026 High-level Event. For this year, the focus is on food – what we eat, what we waste, and how we can move towards a more circular future.