FORUM: "#ActforHumanity" World Humanitarian Day 2026. 2025 set another grim record for violence against aid workers, with 907 colleagues killed, injured or kidnapped, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said today on World Humanitarian Day.
While the death toll decreased slightly to 350 last year, the overall level of violence did not ease: 322 aid workers survived attacks that left them injured while 235 were kidnapped, according to Humanitarian Outcomes’ Aid Worker Security Database.
With 186 humanitarians killed, Gaza remained the deadliest context for the third year running, followed by Sudan with 71 killed.
So far in 2026, 82 aid workers have been killed, 97 injured and 39 kidnapped across the world.
“More than 1,000 aid workers have been killed in just three years and that is utterly unacceptable,” said Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. “But just calling it out will not protect the next aid worker. States must uphold international humanitarian law and use every tool to protect civilians and our colleagues. And for those who break the rules, there must be real consequences.”
Of particular concern is the proliferation of cheap and adaptable armed drones that are putting lethal power into ever more hands and sending more explosive weapons into towns and cities.
In Sudan, armed drones caused 80 per cent of civilian deaths in the first four months of 2026, hitting markets and health facilities.
In Ukraine, drones killed 80 civilians in April this year alone, while in the Russian Federation, civilians have been killed and civilian infrastructure damaged because of drone attacks.
In Colombia, attacks using weaponized drones quadrupled between 2024 and 2025.
Humanitarians are increasingly in the crosshairs of armed drones. In March this year, an aid worker was killed in a drone strike on a residential building in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In just one week in May, four humanitarian convoys were hit in Ukraine.
"Weaponized drones have become the new face of an old danger: the deliberate or reckless destruction of civilian life,” Mr. Fletcher said. “The technology may change, but the laws of war do not.”
On World Humanitarian Day, we honour the dedicated workers who provide life-saving aid to millions in need. We also confront an appalling truth: Serving others has become more dangerous than ever. More than a thousand humanitarians have been killed in the last three years. Most were local staff supporting their own communities. Countless others narrowly survived being shot at, shelled, bombed, kidnapped, or raped. Schools and hospitals are coming under fire. And new tools of war – including armed drones – are posing fresh risks. At the same time, disinformation is eroding trust. Humanitarian funding is being cut. And humanitarian access is being restricted. We see aid convoys blocked. Aid workers threatened, arrested, and detained. And people in desperate need left without support. Attacks on humanitarian workers are illegal. And the consequences are devastating. For families struggling to survive. Children waiting for food. Patients seeking urgent care. And so many more. The world has made commitments. Now it must act: To respect the rules of war; Ensure safe access; Hold perpetrators accountable; And provide sufficient resources. Humanitarian workers stand up for people in need. We must stand up for them. We must act for humanity – now.
António Guterres.
EVENTS: On August 19th, starting at 4 p.m., the UN Geneva held a commemorative eventin the memory of those who paid the utmost sacrifice in line of duty and to honour the invaluable contribution of humanitarian workers. The event will bring together partners from across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers. Register to participate and Watch the livestream!
Agenda Programme
World Humanitarian Day 2026 – Commemoration Ceremony. Tuesday, 19 August 2026, 4 p.m. Salle des Pas Perdus, 3rd Floor, Building A, Palais des Nations
4 P.M. OPENING OF THE EVENT
Master of ceremony: Ms. Alessandra Vellucci, Director, United Nations Information Service at Geneva
Wreath laying and candle lightning ceremony by the United Nations
Laying of flowers by the survivors and families of the victims of the attack against the United Nations Mission in Baghdad of 19 August 2003, and other UN offices
Laying of flowers by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Iraq to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva
Remarks by Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General, United Nations Office at Geneva
Minute of silence
Remarks by Mr. Barham Salih, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
Remarks by Ms. Awa Dabo, Deputy High Commissioner, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Remarks by H.E. Mr. Saywan Barzani, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Iraq to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva
Remarks by Ms. Shawbo Taher-Al-Talabani, survivor of the 19 August 2003 terrorist attack against the United Nations Mission in Baghdad
Remarks by Ms. Laura Johnson, Executive Secretary, UNOG Staff Union
Remarks by Ms. Gemma Connell, Officer-in-Charge, Humanitarian Sector Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
5 P.M. CONCLUSION OF THE EVENT.
Annual observance of World Humanitarian Day at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland.
Lowering of the UN Flag to half mast in observance of World Humanitarian Day 2026, and in honour of humanitarian personnel who have lost their lives.
Lowering of the UN Flag to half mast in observance of World Humanitarian Day 2026, and in honour of humanitarian personnel who have lost their lives.
Led by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the 2026 campaign theme under #ActForHumanity spotlights the grave dangers aid workers face—particularly from weaponized drones—and shares the personal stories of fallen humanitarians through their families.
Lowering of the UN Flag to half mast in observance of World Humanitarian Day 2026, and in honour of humanitarian personnel who have lost their lives.
Wreath-laying by the Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. António Guterres in front of the plaque honouring those who lost their lives in Baghdad, followed by a moment of silence.
The ceremony also marks the observance of World Humanitarian Day designated by the General Assembly in 2008 to coincide with the date of the bombing in Baghdad.
The Day also honours humanitarian aid workers who have been killed or injured in the course of their work.
Confirmed attending survivors (in-person):Mr. Salim Lone, the spokesperson in Baghdad for Mr. Sérgio Vieira de Mello, the head of the UN mission in Iraq. Mr. Lone currently writes columns for a newspapers, including The New York Times, The Guardian, The Washington Post, The Sunday Nation (Kenya), and publishes on the Iraq war. More about Mr. Lone: Salim Lone - Wikipedia Mr. Francis Mead, UN and BBC Filmmaker/Writer: He was working on the day of the bomb blast in the Canal Hotel - reporting on the situation in Iraq for the IRIN news service - which was then part of the UN. He is from the UK and worked for the UN for 25 years, mostly making documentaries, before retiring in 2023. Mr. Darko Mocibob, Director, Political Affairs - Middle East Division, DPPA-DPO. Mr. Romano Lasker, Manager, Humanitarian Development Peace, Crisis Bureau, UNDP.
Other survivors and family members of the victims will also join us live on UN Web TV.View less Related Sites and Documents: Press release.
FORUM: "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations." International Youth Day 2026. Today, we recognize that while young people’s lives are shaped by different national and local realities, their aspirations are remarkably similar. Across countries and communities, young people seek dignity, opportunity, meaningful participation, decent work, quality education, and a sustainable future. This year’s theme places particular attention on young people living in Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), who often experience overlapping challenges linked to poverty, climate change, geographic isolation, limited economic opportunities, and unequal access to digital technologies. At the same time, these young people continue to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and innovation in advancing sustainable development within their communities and beyond. Although young people experience different realities depending on where they live, many of today's most pressing challenges transcend borders. Limited access to quality education, barriers to decent work, unequal digital connectivity, climate change, social exclusion, and concerns about mental well-being affect millions of young people worldwide. These challenges are often most acute in LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS, where structural constraints—including limited fiscal space, geographic isolation, climate vulnerability, and infrastructure gaps—can reduce opportunities for youth. Yet young people in these countries are also leading innovative solutions through entrepreneurship, digital technologies, community action, climate adaptation, and social innovation. The 2026 theme emphasizes that recognizing different contexts should strengthen—not diminish—global solidarity. By investing in youth everywhere and supporting those facing the greatest barriers, the international community can help ensure that no young person is left behind.
The 2026 Sub-themes are about:
Global Solidarity: Sustainable development and youth development are shared responsibilities. This sub-theme highlights the importance of international cooperation, partnerships, and equitable access to opportunities and resources that enable young people everywhere to thrive. Shared Challenges: Young people across countries increasingly face interconnected challenges related to education, employment, climate change, digital inclusion, and mental well-being. This sub-theme encourages dialogue and collective responses informed by young people's lived experiences. Youth Innovation: Young people are developing practical and creative solutions to local and global challenges. From climate action and digital entrepreneurship to community-led initiatives and social innovation, youth continue to demonstrate leadership even in resource-constrained settings. This sub-theme celebrates their contributions while promoting opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
On this occasion, we celebrate also the young people around the world who are turning ideas into action, building businesses, creating opportunities and driving change in their communities. Through our global youth entrepreneurship community, we are proud to connect and support young entrepreneurs on their journeys. With The hashtags #InternationalYouthDay, we celebrate the young entrepreneurs showing us what hashtag #YouthLead looks like in action — and the creativity, ambition and leadership they bring to building a better future.
On this International Youth Day, I'm delighted to join you in celebrating the vital contribution of the young people whose ideas, energy, and determination are driving progress towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient world.
This year's theme, different context, common aspirations, reflects a simple but powerful truth. While the young people's lives are shaped by diverse local realities, their aspirations for dignity, opportunity, participation, and sustainable future are also shared across the borders. Many young people continue to face barriers to education, employment, digital connectivity and opportunity. Yet, we also see a generation that is innovating, adapting, and leading change in the communities around the world.
This year's observance highlights three priorities.
First, global solidarity. Expanding opportunities for young people requires a stronger international cooperation, investment, and partnerships.
Second, shared challenges. Issues such as inequality, climate change, education, employment, digital access, and mental health transcend borders and demand collective solutions.
Third, use innovation. Across the all regions, young people are developing climate solutions, building businesses, and using technology to strengthen the layer communities.
The 2025 world summit for social development in Doha reaffirmed the importance of the inclusive people centered development. As we build on that commitment, we must continue investing in young people and creating the conditions for them to succeed through its work that on sustainable development, social inclusion and youth employment. My department at the UN Desert remains committed to supporting young people and expanding opportunities for them to thrive. Young people are not waiting for change.
They are leading changes. Our responsibility is to ensure that they have the opportunities, resources, and support they need to shape a better future for all. Thank you.
The United Nations will commemorate International Youth Day 2026 on 12 August through an online campaign inviting young people worldwide to share messages of hope, support, and collaboration, with particular attention to youth living in LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. The observance provides a platform for governments, youth organizations, United Nations entities, civil society, academia, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and showcase youth-led initiatives that contribute to more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies.You can read the full concept note andRegister to participate!
This celebration of youth convenes hundreds of young people from around the world who are eager to make the world a better place. Hosted at the United Nations World Health Organization, young people, dignitaries, leaders, educators, activists and champions of sustainable development are gathering to explore the theme of “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” Watch the celebration of International Youth Day 2026: Different Contexts, Common Aspirations organized by the UNITAR
COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: In support of the 2026 theme, DESA is preparing a set of products to amplify youth voices and inspire action at all level. These products are available in a Trello Board and include:Digital cards designed for dissemination by youth networks, Member States, and UN agencies to increase outreach and engagement
Infographic that brings together key facts, insights, key messages and initiatives.
Everyone has a role to play in supporting young people and creating opportunities that allow them to thrive. Join the conversation with the hashtag: #YouthDay by participating in International Youth Day activities, sharing youth-led initiatives, engaging with the digital solidarity campaign, and using your platforms to amplify young voices and promote inclusive, sustainable development. Together, we can recognize that while young people live in different contexts, they share common aspirations—and that achieving those aspirations requires collective action and global solidarity.
FORUM: "Unite To Turn The Tide." World Drowning Prevention Day 2026. Since 2000, the world has cut the drowning rate by 38%. Drowning takes more than 300 000 lives a year - 30 every hour - and almost a quarter of them are children under five. Globally, it is among the ten leading causes of death for children aged 5-14 years. More than 90% of drowning deaths occur in rivers, lakes, wells, domestic water storage vessels and swimming pools in low- and middle-income countries, with children and adolescents in rural areas disproportionately affected. Many of the youngest victims never came near a river. They drowned in household buckets. In water storage tanks. While someone's back was turned.Communities began identifying dangerous water bodies and fencing them. Families learned CPR. Children got swim lessons. Volunteers took on a shared responsibility to watch over the water in their backyards and communities. But the work is far from done. We know how to close this gap. We just need to do it faster, together. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #keeppeoplesafearoundwater, #DrowningPrevention, #25July, #UniteToTurnTheTide.
EVENT: On July 25th, 2026 we will mark the 5th annual observance of the World Drowning Prevention Day; a global call to action against one of the most preventable cause of deaths. The evidence is clear, the tools exist and the strategies are proven, what is needed now is solidarity at scale. This year we look upstream to the actions that save lives long before danger arrives and we call on everyone to recognize and play their parts. Register to participate!
KEY MESSAGES: Partners, advocates and communicators are welcome to use and
adapt these messages across campaigns, events and media.
1 Drowning claims more than 300,000 lives every year. That’s 30 people drowning every hour.
Drowning is preventable.
We know the risks. We have the solutions.
Now we need to scale them.
2
Children pay the heaviest price.
Drowning is the 4th leading cause of death for children aged 1–4,
and the 3rd leading cause of death for children aged 5–14.
3
Drowning is a deeply unequal crisis.
Nine in ten drowning deaths happen in low- and
middle-income countries.
4
Drowning is a climate issue.
Floods are becoming more frequent and severe, and 75% of flood
deaths are due to drowning. Drowning prevention belongs at the
heart of disaster risk reduction and climate resilience plans, with
stronger early warning systems and community preparedness.
7 Drowning prevention takes a united effort.
It's not the job of one ministry, one community or one profession.
It depends on action across families, workplaces, sectors and
governments – often long before an emergency unfolds.
7 Drowning prevention takes a united effort. It's not the job of one ministry, one community or one profession. It depends on action across families, workplaces, sectors and governments – often long before an emergency unfolds.
8 We know how to solve this crisis.
Swim and water safety education, supervised childcare, lifejackets, CPR
training, swimming pool fencing, regulated boats and flood early warning
systems all save lives. What's needed is scale. The Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention sets out a shared global roadmap – uniting
governments, communities and partners behind what works.
9 Investing in drowning prevention is one of the smartest
public health investments any country can make.
Most of the actions that prevent drowning are low-cost, well-understood, and ready to scale. Studies show that scaling just two
solutions – supervised childcare and child swim education – could
save 774,000 lives by 2050 with a 9x return on investment
10 This moment matters: it’s time to turn the tide.
Five years into the global movement, the world has a shared goal –
to reduce drowning deaths by 35% by 2035. We have the
knowledge and tools, now it’s time to act!
ACTIVITIES: Whoever you are, you have a role to play.
Reaching our goal depends on millions of small actions – from all people, in all places, in all contexts. Know where you come in…
PARENTS & CAREGIVERS - Protect and train...
Supervise children closely near any water Fence pools Cover household water sources Teach children swimming and water safety Learn CPR and safe rescue
SCHOOLS & EDUCATORS - Educate and equip…
Bring water safety into curriculums Share water safety information Connect families with practical water safety resources
WORKERS AROUND WATER - Advocate for your safety...
Always wear your lifejacket Insist on safety training and access to safety equipment Report unsafe working conditions
EMPLOYERS & OPERATORS - Create a safety culture…
Provide safety training and equipment Meet international occupational safety standards Identify and respond to safety risks
COMMUNITY LEADERS & ADVOCATES - Push local drowning prevention measures...
Map local water risks and identify solutions Run community swim and rescue training Establish or strengthen flood warning systems
POLICYMAKERS & REGULATORS - Legislate for safety...
Pass laws that keep people safe around water Fund proven drowning prevention interventions Coordinate across sectors
The Global Strategy for Drowning Prevention calls every sector and every level of society to one goal: Unite to reduce drowning by 35% by 2035. Closing the gap depends on all of us doing our part – every person, in every place, in every context.
TAKE ACTION:
USE THE TOOLKIT: The Unite to Turn the Tide Campaign Toolkit is a practical campaign guide for communities, partners, advocates and communicators. It comes with everything you need to support the campaign on your channels, including key messages, social media copy, and ways to participate.
LINK ARMS: Share stories of the everyday heroes of your team, tell us what they are doing to prevent drowning in your community. Tag @WHO and use the theme: Unite To Turn The Tide.
The fifth session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent took place from 14 – 17 April 2026 at the Assembly Hall, Palais des Nations of the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) announced the session.Watch the livestream!
Today we mark the International Day for Women and Girls of African descent. A day born from decades of courage, leadership, and solidarity by women of African descent, especially across Latin America and the Caribbean. For me, this is more than a day of recognition. It is a call to action, one that is needed, urgent, collective, and long overdue. Around the world, women and girls of African descent continue to face systemic racism and overlapping forms of discrimination that shape their daily lives. [music] And racism and discrimination happens in classrooms, workplaces, hospitals, public spaces, and at home. And the consequences can be devastating. The facts are stark. In health care, women and girls of African descent are more likely to die in childbirth, [music] to face obstetric violence, and to lose their lives to preventable and treatable diseases. In the Americas, pregnancy and childirth remain the leading cause of death [music] among girls and young women of African descent, age 15 to 19. In public and political life, they are still too often excluded from the rooms where decisions are made. And when they do speak, harmful stereotypes often seek to diminish their voices, their ideas, and to undermine their leadership. Too often, these inequalities also remain hidden. Without disagregated data by race or ethnic origin, the realities of women and girls of African descent can disappear inside broader statistics, and injustice becomes more entrenched and easier to ignore. And yet women and girls of African descent continue to lead against all odds. They continue to organize, to resist, create, and transform societies, often in the face of discrimination, exclusion, and always with extraordinary strength, courage, persistence, and determination. And it is why this day matters. [music] We must continue to raise awareness of the many unjust challenges that women and girls of African descent face. And we must be relentless in our call for change because it is political, it is historical, and for many of us it is deeply personal. Now let us hear what this day means to some of our colleagues across our office. This day is deeply personal because it honors the often overlooked lived experiences of black women and girls. Growing up surrounded by three generations of black women, I learned early that the barriers they face were more than statistics. They were reflected in the stories and the conversations that shaped my understanding of the world. Yet through their joy and confidence, I witnessed resilience, excellence, and grace personified. May this day remind us that behind every statistic is a black woman deserving of dignity, protection, and opportunity. Seeing other women and girls of African descent represented, their stories told, and their contributions recognized expands our sense of what is possible. Representation is also about more than what we see. It's about whose voices are heard, whose opinions and experiences are taken into account in decision-m and who inspires others. Visibility empowers us, challenges stereotypes, and reminds every woman and girl of African descent that she belongs wherever she wants to be and [music] that her potential is limitless. Foreern from sector discrimination. The future leader, innovator, artistic. Today is a day to listen to women and girls of African descent around the world whose voices have too often been overlooked and yet they continue to inspire us and to teach us. But listening, however, is only the first step. Lasting change requires that their rights are upheld and that their concerns are met with real action. States must deliver on their human rights obligations and that is to tackle systemic racism, dismantle barriers to participation, invest in quality education, health care and economic opportunity, collect and use disaggregated data and ensure women and girls of African descent have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their lives. States must also ensure accountability for racial discrimination and advance reparatory justice. The path forward is clear. [music] We must listen with purpose, act with urgency, and invest in the rights, leadership, and futures of women and girls of African descent. And in this, we at OCR are determined to continue to strive for just societies, ones that champion respect, dignity, fairness, and equality for all.
Awa Dabo, UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights.
CASE STUDIES: STORIES FROM GUATEMALA, ECUADOR, URUGUAY
On 25 July 1992 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, around 300 women of African descent from 32 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean arrived at the First Meeting of Latin American and Caribbean Black Women. They came from different countries and backgrounds, but they shared one certainty: they didn’t feel heard or represented.
The Americas are home to around 200 million people of African descent. Across the region, they continue to endure the legacies of enslavement and colonialism. The systemic racism they experience today is often compounded by sexism, limiting access to rights, opportunities and decision-making spaces.
What happened in 1992 left a deep mark on the history of the movement of women of African descent worldwide. The gathering led to the creation of the Network of Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean and Diaspora Women (RMAAD) and its participants established 25 July as the International Day of Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean and Diaspora Women - a date now observed globally as the International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent.
"[This Day] is vital to render visible and challenge the intersection between racism — bound up with pigmentocracy and colourism — and sexism, bringing silenced contributions to light and demanding public policies adapted to the realities of Black and Afro-descendant women in all our diversity,” said Glenda Joanna Wetherborn, a woman of African descent from Guatemala and member of the RMAAD.
The Santo Domingo gathering did not emerge out of nowhere. It was the culmination of more than a decade of efforts by women of African descent who felt invisible in the very spaces where they should have been protagonists.
In 1985, some Brazilian women of African descent were denied entry to a feminist meeting in Bertioga, Brazil. This defining moment confirmed what many already felt, that they could not move forward without building a space of their own
In 1992 in Santo Domingo, women discussed racial discrimination, patriarchy, poverty, migration and violence. They marched against the quincentenary commemorations of the colonization of the Americas.
For Sonia Viveros Padilla, an Ecuadorian activist of African descent and member of the RMAAD, 25 July remains both a commemoration and a political call.
“It is the date on which we remember our struggles, but also reaffirm our commitment,” she said. “As a political date, it makes visible the work being done to affirm our identity and ensure respect for the individual and collective rights of people of African descent and, in particular, of women of African descent.”
A network of many generations
The RMAAD soon became a powerful political space for reflection, exchange of ideas, and advocacy. Its members carried the demands of women of African descent to the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna in 1993, to the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995, and to the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance in Durban in 2001, during which the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA) was adopted. Today, the Network brings together more than 450 members in 30 countries.
One of the Network’s greatest strengths is its multigenerational character: the founders from 1992 stand alongside young women leaders of African descent.
"The younger generations have contributed to a renewal of discourses and methodologies, incorporating intersectionality, decoloniality, artivism —the intersection of art and activism—, and the use of technologies and information and communication tools, to connect the legacy of our ancestors with new digital narratives and instruments for international advocacy," Wetherborn explained.
The work of these younger generations, she noted, focuses on building alliances to dismantle racial stereotypes and consolidate support networks.
Viveros Padilla, who joined the RMAAD through the Ecuadorian women of African descent movement, describes the Network as a place where women of African descent across the region can recognise each other’s experiences and organise their movement across borders.
“We came to know and recognise each other as peers, women from different territories, different Afro-descendant peoples and different countries, but with similar problems,” she said, adding that the Network is “a space of belonging, not affiliation”: a platform through which members can share their national realities, build common responses and advance an international agenda rooted in the demands of their communities.
For younger members such as Serrana Lamas Silva, this intergenerational exchange has also opened new forms of participation.
"My generation has taken on a very important challenge: to carry forward the legacy of the women who opened the path, while at the same time building new forms of participation for Afro-descendant youth," she said.
"We have ensured that young people not only participate, but also shape the definition of political agendas," Lamas Silva added. "We have brought in issues such as anti-racist education, the political participation of youth, the right to mental health, human mobility, and the need to generate data with an ethnic-racial and intersectional approach."
From regional activism to global recognition
What began as the collective decision of 300 women gradually gained ground in State agendas and multilateral forums, driven notably by the first International Decade for People of African Descent (2015–2024).
And in 2024, the UN General Assembly officially established 25 July as the International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent.
For the Network's members, the partnership with UN Human Rights is key to translating that recognition into real change.
"[This partnership] strengthens the demands for political recognition in the region by giving them normative backing and international protection," Wetherborn explained. "«This makes it possible to bring the rights of Afro-descendant women into decision-making forums, compelling States to make commitments and be held to account. »
Viveros Padilla described UN Human Rights as a strategic ally for the Network: one that monitors States’ international commitments, provides technical assistance and helps civil society engage with human rights mechanisms.
Awa Dabo, UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, stressed that meaningful progress for women and girls of African descent requires concerted action by States.
“States must deliver on their human rights obligations, that is to tackle systemic racism, dismantle barriers to participation, invest in quality education, health care, and economic opportunity, collect and use disaggregated data, and ensure women and girls of African descent have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their lives,” Dabo said.
“We seek to achieve full recognition, justice and development for Afro-descendant women and girls,” she said. For Wetherborn, this means moving beyond commitments and translating them into action.
Bia Albernaz, Anti-Racial Discrimination Advisor based in the Office for South America, said that UN Human Rights’ work with the Network of Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean and Diaspora Women is grounded in a shared commitment to ensure that the rights of women and girls of African descent are fully realised.
“The Office will continue working alongside its members to strengthen participation, support accountability and help turn commitments into concrete change in the lives of women and girls of African descent,” Albernaz added.
Every year, on 25 July, the Network remembers why it was established: to create a space for women of African descent to gather and honour their history and their demands. The International Day now carries their work forward as a wider global struggle, calling for recognition, equality, justice and lasting change.
FORUM: "Fair Decisions matters." International Day for Judicial Well-being 2026. Judicial well-being is essential for a fair justice system, protecting judges from stress, burnout, and isolation so they can make impartial decisions.The observance relies on removing mental health stigmas and providing proper institutional support. Tired or stressed judges may struggle with focus, patience, and clear judgment. A healthy judiciary protects public confidence and the rule of law. Individual habits and court rules must work together to reduce daily pressure. Stress is normal in a demanding legal career, not a personal weakness. Courts should offer counseling, peer connections, and flexible schedules. Frameworks like the Nauru Declaration guide nations on building safer work cultures. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #25July, #JudicialLeader, #JudicialWellbeing, #judicialstress, #mentalhealth, #secondarytrauma, #InternationalDayforJudicialwellbeing.
EVENT: On July 25th, a virtual event will be held to mark the International Day for Judicial Well-being. The event brings together judicial leaders and policymakers to develop concrete tools and strategies for integrating well-being into court systems worldwide. The United Nations General Assembly encourages member states, UN agencies, judicial institutions, and other stakeholders to observe the day through various activities, including public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and wellness programs. Register to participate!
Judge Peter Jamadar, Chairman of the Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers (CAJO), has authored a compelling thematic brief for the Global Judicial Integrity Network, exploring the vital connection between judicial integrity and the well-being of judicial officers.
Colombia is the host country of the International Moon Day Main Event, the world's leading celebration dedicated to promoting international cooperation, science outreach, and knowledge about lunar exploration. Bogotá serves as the meeting point for researchers, representatives of international organizations, space agencies, experts in space law, science communicators, and the general public. Maloka Museo Interactivo will host this special event, connecting Colombia with the global conversation on the present and future of lunar exploration. Register to participate!
The IMD Main Event 2026 will take place in Bogotá, Colombia on July 20, 2026, at the Maloka Museo Interactivo. The event is being organized by the MVA National Coordinator in Colombia, Francisco Forero, in collaboration with a dedicated team from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia. The IMD Main Event will be broadcasted live in this page and on the IMD Youtube Channel. Livestream begins on July 20 at 9 am COT / 4 pm CEST.
Agenda Program 9:00 AM COT / 4:00 PM CEST | Opening
Opening Remarks by Francisco Forrero, Master of Ceremonies Welcome by Irina Lopez, Maloca Interactivo Representative Welcome by Nasr Alsahhaf, IMD Co-Chair Greetings by:Aarti Holla-Maini, Director, UNOOSA Wu Weiren, DSEL Director (China) 9:30 AM COT / 4:30 PM CEST | Keynotes
Objective 2030: Garavito Crater, Armando Higuera, Director, National Astronomical Observatory (Colombia) ATLAC (Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation), Ulpia-Elena Botezatu, Space Policy Officer at the Romanian Space Agency & ATLAC Co-Chair (Romania) Colombia Looks Up, A New Chapter in Space, Raul E. Gutierrez G., National Space Society Colombia 10:40 AM COT / 5:40 PM CEST| Coffee Break 11:00 AM COT / 6:00 PM CEST | Greetings & TributeGreetings – Marco Antonio Chamon, President, Brazilian Space Agency Tribute to Cesar Ocamp Introduction to ROund table – Rodrigo Vesule, MVA Regional Coordinator, Latin America 11:35 AM COT / 6:35 PM CEST | Roundtable: Latin American Space Law & Future Pathways
Moderator:
Gabriela Cárdenas, MVA National Coordinator, ColombiaIvan Luna, Space Systems & Technology Strategy Consultant, Colombia Marcia Alvarenga – Brazilian Space Agency Representative, Brazil Lucas Fonseca – Brazilian Entrepreneur, Brazil Fermin Romero Vazquez – Space Strategy Expert, Mexico Rodrigo Vesule – MVA Regional Coordinator, Latin America 12:25 PM COT / 7:25 PM CEST | Keynote
The US Moon Base and its Commercial applications, Jim Keravala, OffWorld Inc., USA 12:35 PM COT / 7:35 PM CEST | Closing RemarksClosing Remarks by Cnel. Sonia Ruth Rincon Urbina.
LIVESTREAM: Colombia es el país anfitrión del Evento Central del Día Internacional de la Luna (International Moon Day), la principal celebración mundial dedicada a promover la cooperación internacional, la divulgación científica y el conocimiento sobre la exploración lunar. Bogotá es el punto de encuentro de investigadores, representantes de organizaciones internacionales, agencias espaciales, expertos en derecho espacial, comunicadores científicos y público general. Maloka albergará esta jornada, que conectará a Colombia con la conversación global sobre el presente y el futuro de la exploración lunar.
FORUM: "Celebrate, create and make a difference.'' International Chess Day 2026. Every year, the global chess community comes together to celebrate chess and to mark the founding of FIDE in 1924. More than a commemoration of the game’s history, the day is a celebration of chess’s unique ability to connect people across countries, cultures and generations.To play chess; Choose someone close to you. You can change somebody’s life by teaching him/her a beautiful game, but you will also be spending some quality time and creating or reinforcing a special bond with that person. If your children already play, maybe you can invite your nephew or your son’s best friend. Maybe you can finally teach your boyfriend how to play, or your high-school best mate. Or you could propose this as an after-work activity with your colleagues at the office. You can start using the hashtag #Internationalchessday in your social media posts during the weekend leading to July 20th. But the very important day is Monday: please make sure to make at least one or two posts with the official hashtag, if possible early in the morning. That will ensure that other users will follow.
EVENTS: This Tuesday, July 20th, we will celebrate International Chess Day 2026. As you probably know, this date also marks FIDE’s 102nd anniversary. This year, FIDE invited players, federations, clubs, schools, organisers and chess enthusiasts around the world to celebrate by taking chess beyond the traditional playing hall. The challenge was simple: stage a game in the most unusual, meaningful or symbolic place imaginable – whether on a mountaintop, beside a famous landmark, underwater or anywhere else that captures the imagination. From historic monuments and tropical beaches to schools, village squares and community centers, people from every corner of the world demonstrated that no event is too large or too small to celebrate the game. Every chessboard setup, every new player welcomed and every story shared reinforced chess’s power to unite, inspire and create positive change. Register to participate!
Chess has no age – Sri Lanka
One of the most touching submissions came from Sri Lanka, where FIDE Arbiter and photographer Navod Nethsara created a photo series entitled Chess Has No Age.
Set in a rural Sri Lankan village, the story begins with a young child playing chess against an elderly woman. As the game progresses, more children gather around the board, gradually becoming part of the experience. The photographs beautifully illustrate how chess transcends generations, bringing together young and old through a shared passion for the game. Celebrating tradition on the shores of the Maldives
The Maldives showcased Raazuvaa, the country’s traditional counterpart to modern chess. Played with culturally distinctive pieces, the centuries-old game reflects the rich heritage of the islands while sharing the same spirit of strategy and intellectual challenge.
Against the stunning backdrop of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the photographs also celebrated another important story: the growing success of women in Maldivian chess. While the country’s chess community continues to develop, female players are leading the way, breaking barriers and achieving remarkable results.
Chess among centuries of history – Pakistan
In Pakistan, players gathered at the magnificent Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh in Multan, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
Surrounded by centuries of history, participants demonstrated strategy, patience and creativity while celebrating the timeless appeal of chess. The event also encouraged young people to embrace the game as a pathway to critical thinking and lifelong learning.
Inspiring the next generation – India
Across India, International Chess Day became a celebration of learning. In West Bengal, Filix School of Education and the Purulia Chess Association marked the occasion by launching the Filix Chess Club, providing young players with new opportunities to develop analytical thinking, concentration and sportsmanship.
Meanwhile, at EuroKids Balurghat School, even the youngest children joined the celebration. Through playful activities, they discovered how knights move, how pawns become powerful and how every game develops patience, focus and imagination. As the school proudly joked, “Watch out, Magnus Carlsen – the next generation of genius is on its way.”
On the occasion of International Chess Day, Lucknow Metro in Uttar Pradesh hosted the Chess on Wheels event, where young chess enthusiasts participated in an exciting speed chess tournament while traveling from Munshipulia to Hazratganj Metro Station.
Building stronger communities – United Kingdom
The town of Rugby in the United Kingdom hosted an inclusive International Chess Day celebration that brought together school champions from across the Midlands.
Supported by Chess in Schools and Communities coach Anthony Mathurin, the event highlighted chess as a universal language that transcends age, language and physical ability. Mayor Nooria Sayani connected the celebration with her annual theme of community, compassion and cohesion, emphasising how chess encourages critical thinking, resilience and meaningful connections between people in an increasingly technological world.
The festivities even showcased the growing popularity of chess boxing in Rugby – a unique discipline combining mental strategy with physical endurance.
Changing lives through chess – South Africa
At Kagisono Combined School in Soutpan, South Africa, educator and coach Thato Lempe shared how chess has become a powerful educational tool.
Recognising that not every learner thrives in traditional classroom settings or physical sports, he introduced chess to help develop focus, discipline and resilience. His vision extends far beyond competition: he hopes to create a school where chess achievements are celebrated alongside sporting success, empowering learners to become confident thinkers, leaders and problem-solvers.
Festivals, public squares and historic churches
International Chess Day was also celebrated in many other remarkable locations. In Ireland, the Sligo Chess and Culture Festival transformed Queen Maeve Square into a vibrant meeting place for chess and culture.
In Spain, chess found a unique setting inside the beautiful Romanesque Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Duratón, where history, architecture and the game came together in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Mongolian chess family and chess enthusiasts celebrated International Chess Day at the iconic Sükhbaatar Square in Ulaanbaatar. Initiated by Gombojav Zandanshatar, President of the Mongolian Chess Federation, the festivities brought together players of all ages and backgrounds, showcasing chess as a game that unites communities, inspires future generations, and promotes friendship and mutual understanding.
Statement of the President of the FIDE on the International Chess Day 2026; July 20th.
“Dear chess friends,
Chess belongs everywhere
These are just a few of the many stories received by FIDE this year. Together, they demonstrate that chess belongs everywhere – to schools and city squares, beaches and villages, historic landmarks and places of worship. Most importantly, it belongs to everyone. FIDE thanks every federation, club, organiser, volunteer, teacher, parent and player who helped make International Chess Day 2026 a truly global celebration.
If you have not yet celebrated, there is still time to join. Set up a board in your favourite place, introduce someone to the game, organise an event in your community, or simply share your chess story with the world. Every celebration – big or small – helps show how chess continues to bring people together across borders, generations and cultures.
Happy International Chess Day!
Arkady Dvorkovich. FIDE President”
ACTIVITIES: Some of you might be seasoned chess teachers, but many others have never taught the basics chess to absolute beginners. During the days leading to the weekend, try to gather some materials, watch some tutorials, and do some reading. From FIDE, we will stimulate the exchange of information and will share the most interesting ones, in different languages. Let’s help each other with the preparations.
The panel is deliberately designed to focus not on abstract theories but on real-world impact. This panel does not talk about chess; it talks about what chess makes possible– in prisons, schools, communities, ministries, and research labs.
There are many ways to get involved:
you could stage a game in an unusual location,
run an inclusive community event, or
join the live-streamed global conversation about chess and social change.
No event is too large or too small. Every game played, every person welcomed, and every story shared helps demonstrate chess’s unique ability to unite, inspire and create positive change. Take chess beyond the board with Creative Chess
FIDE once again invites the global chess community to celebrate International Chess Day by taking part in Creative Chess, a challenge to promote the game in the most imaginative way possible.The idea is simple: set up a chess game in the most unusual, meaningful or symbolic place you can think of. It could be on a mountaintop, underwater, beside a famous local landmark or anywhere else that captures the imagination. Last year’s challenge produced a wonderful outpouring of creativity from around the world. Submissions included a rooftop game beneath the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, chessboards on the slopes of volcanoes in Costa Rica, a submerged set in the world’s deepest pool in Dubai and games played across the streets, trains and temples of Mumbai. Players, families, schools and even a few pets joined the celebration, all united by one game.
To participate, organize your creative chess game or moment in the days leading up to and around International Chess Day. Share your photos or videos on social media using #InternationalChessDay and tag FIDE. The most original and inspiring submissions may be featured across FIDE’s official social media channels. The board may have 64 squares, but the world of chess is boundless. Where will you take the game?
Celebrate participation and inclusion with FIDE WOM
The FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess (WOM) invites federations, clubs, schools, academies and organizers worldwide to mark International Chess Day by creating opportunities that encourage equal participation throughout the chess community. Activities can take many forms: a tournament, simultaneous exhibition, workshop, lecture, introductory lesson, school programme or informal community gathering. Organizers are encouraged to design welcoming events that bring people together, introduce new participants to chess and highlight the contributions of women and girls to the game.
Every initiative counts. A small club activity can be just as meaningful as a large international event when it creates a supportive space in which more people feel encouraged to play, learn, organize and lead.
How to participate?
Organize an event around International Chess Day and share photos, videos and highlights on social media. Tag the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess and use #InternationalChessDayWOM so that activities from across the world can be brought together as part of the global celebration. After the event, organizers are invited to submit a short report accompanied by two or three photographs to project coordinator Anna Kantane at anna.kantane@gmail.com. Together, these events will showcase the remarkable work taking place within chess communities worldwide while inspiring greater participation and creating new opportunities through the game.
Join the global discussion: Chess as a Force for Social Change
As part of the International Chess Day celebrations, the FIDE Social Commission will host a special interactive panel discussion exploring how chess can serve as a practical tool for rehabilitation, protection, inclusion and development. Titled “Chess as Social Value: From the Chessboard to Society,” the 60-minute live discussion will bring together policymakers, researchers, programme leaders and practitioners who are using chess to create tangible change in communities around the world. Rather than focusing on chess solely as a sport, the conversation will examine what the game makes possible: in prisons, refugee communities, schools, social programmes, government institutions and research environments. Through concrete examples drawn from the speakers’ direct experience, the panel will demonstrate how chess can build confidence, encourage positive behavior, support education and create opportunities for people in vulnerable or underserved communities.
The discussion will feature nine speakers representing a wide range of international projects and professional backgrounds:
Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board and former Minister of Finance and Minister of Economics of Latvia
Mikhail Korenman, leader of the Chess for Freedom project, United States
Lasma Kokorevica, representative of the Latvian prison administration
Anastasia Sorokina, Chair of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess and leader of the FIDE Chess for Protection project, Australia
Susan Namangale, Global Director of The Gift of Chess, Malawi
Russell Makofsky, founder of The Gift of Chess
Antonio Porter, Director of Programs at the Cook County Department of Corrections
Prabitha Urwyler, Swiss Chess Federation board member responsible for Social Chess
Hans Alther, prison chess educator and practitioner
Structured around a series of guiding questions, the session will invite the speakers to share practical lessons, measurable outcomes and personal experiences from their work. Audience members will also have an opportunity to submit questions and take part in the discussion.
Date: Monday, July 20, 2026 Time: 15:00 CEST Duration: One hour Format: Online panel discussion and live global broadcast
Whether you organize an event, stage a game somewhere unexpected, join the online discussion or simply play with someone new, be part of International Chess Day 2026. On July 20, let us show the world not only where chess can be played, but also where chess can lead.
FIDE Treasurer and Women’s World Champion Zhu Chen, together with WIM Liang Zhihua, attended the “Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) Clinical Application Symposium” on June 11, as special guests at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen). Chess has long been associated with intelligence and human creativity. Increasingly, the game is finding its place at the cutting edge of brain science. FIDE representatives and chess players were invited to attend an event that brought together leading neurologists, clinicians, and technology companies working on brain-computer interface systems. At first glance, chess may seem an unusual guest at a medical symposium. Yet over the past year, the game has emerged as one of the clearest demonstrations of what brain-computer interface technology can achieve.
The event comes nine months after a historic moment in September 2025, when Neuralink patient Noland Arbaugh played a game of chess online against Swedish WFM Anna Cramling, marking the first time chess appeared on the global stage as a real-world BCI application. The match served as a public demonstration of how consumer-grade digital platforms can integrate with next-generation medical hardware. During the match, Arbaugh, who was left quadriplegic after a swimming accident in 2016, controlled his side of the board on chess.com using a coin-sized Neuralink skull implant that contained over 1,000 electrode threads tracking his neural intent. The match highlighted a shift from robotic arm movements towards complex cognitive multitasking.
That connection was reflected in discussions at the Shenzhen symposium. Researchers from top Chinese institutions took part, including Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Xuanwu and Tiantan Hospitals, affiliated with Capital Medical University; Huashan Hospital, affiliated with Fudan University; Southeast University; and many others from the Greater Bay Area. Representatives from BCI companies also attended.
During the conference, chess was recognized as a tool for connecting scientific research and technology in the study of cognitive functions. Zhu Chen, a former Women’s World Champion, shared her views from the perspective of a chess player, linking scientific discussions with a board game built on human thought.
“It was very interesting to see the extent to which science has advanced in brain research. It seems almost sci-fi! It was exciting as well as heartwarming to hear that chess, an ancient game, has a very important role to play in the groundbreaking research which will strongly impact the future of humanity,” said Zhu Chen.
“FIDE has always been supportive and open to working with scientific institutions and organizations and will continue to do so,” Zhu added.
Experts also shared the latest advances in using BCI to treat Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, consciousness disorders, and spinal cord injuries and highlighted the rapid development of BCI research in China. The organizers said that the next stage of the project will involve multicenter clinical projects with leading BCI companies in China. Chess was again recognized as a useful tool for hypothesis testing. Whether those efforts ultimately transform medical treatment remains to be seen, but what is clear is that chess has a role to play in supporting scientific research and development.
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