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The UNITED NATIONS OBSERVANCES

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and press briefings, go to www.unis.unvienna.org

United Nations activities and programmes.

United Nations observances contribute to the achievement of the purposes of the UN Charter and promote awareness of and action on important political, social, cultural, humanitarian or human rights issues. They provide a useful means for the promotion of international and national action and stimulate interest in United Nations activities and programmes. For international years and decades the UN Secretary General takes action to establish the preparatory process, evaluation and follow-up procedures.

In 1950, the General Assembly approved the first international day — Human Rights Day — to be observed on 10 December. Resolution 423 (V) invited all states and international organizations to observe this day to celebrate the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the General Assembly on 10 December 1948, and to exert increasing efforts in this field.

In 1978, the General Assembly by its resolution S-10/2 proclaimed the first international week — the week starting 24 October (the day of the founding of the UN) — as a week devoted to fostering the objectives of disarmament (Disarmament Week).

The first international year was proclaimed by the General Assembly in 1959. It was the World Refugee Year [Resolution 1285 (XIII)].

The first UN decade was the United Nations Development Decade designated by the General Assembly in 1961 [Resolution 1710 (XVI)].

Subjects :

Africa
Children
Civil and Public Service
Crime
Cultural Diversity
Decolonization
Economic Development
Education
Environment
Health
Humanitarian Assistance
Human Rights
Indigenous People
International Cooperation
International Law
Multilingualism
Outer Space
Peace and Security
Population
Science
Social Development
United Nations
Volunteers
Women

The majority of observances have been established by the UN General Assembly and some have been designated by UN specialized agencies.

World Interfaith Harmony Week : 1–7 February (First week of February)

1–7 February
(First week of February)

World Interfaith Harmony Week

by the resolution A/RES/65/5

Solidarity against Racism and Racial Discrimination : 21–27 March

21–27 March

Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination

by the resolution A/RES/34/24

Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination : 21–27 March

21–27 March

Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination

by the resolution A/RES/34/24

UN Global Road Safety Week : 23–29 April 2007

23–29 April 2007
UN Global Road Safety Week
by the resolution

A/RES/60/5

Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories : 25–31 May

25–31 May
Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories

by the resolution
A/RES/54/91

World Breastfeeding Week (WHO) : 1–7 August

1–7 August
World Breastfeeding Week (WHO)

World Space Week : 4–10 October

4–10 October
World Space Week
by the resolution
A/RES/54/68

Disarmament Week : 24–30 October

24–30 October
Disarmament Week

by the resolution

A/RES/S-10/2,
p. 102

International Week of Science and Peace : 6–12 November

6–12 November
(The week in which 11 November falls)

International Week of Science and Peace : 6-12 November
by the resolution
A/RES/43/61

International Decades

2011–2020 : United Nations Decade on Biodiversity - A/RES/65/161
2011–2020 : Decade of Action for Road Safety - A/RES/64/255
2010–2020 : United Nations Decade for Deserts and the Fight against Desertification - A/RES/62/195
2008–2017 : Second United Nations Decade for the Eradication of Poverty - A/RES/62/205
2006–2016 : Decade of Recovery and Sustainable Development of the Affected Regions (third decade after the Chernobyl disaster) - A/RES/62/9
2005–2015 : International Decade for Action, “Water for Life” - A/RES/58/217
2005–2014 : United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development - A/RES/57/254
2005–2014 : Second International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People - A/RES/59/174
2003–2012 : United Nations Literacy Decade: Education for All - A/RES/56/116
2001–2010 : International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence for the Children of the World - A/RES/59/143
2001–2010 : Decade to Roll Back Malaria in Developing Countries, Particularly in Africa - A/RES/60/221
2001–2010 : Second International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism - A/RES/55/146
1997–2006 : Decade for The Eradication for Poverty - A/RES/50/107
1995–2004 : Decade for Human Rights Education - A/RES/49/184
1994–2004 : Decade of the World's Indigenous People - A/RES/48/163
1993–2003 : Third Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination - A/RES/48/91
1991–2000 : Second Industrial Development Decade for Africa - A/RES/44/237 and A/RES/47/177
1991–2000 : Second Transport and Communications Decade in Africa - A/RES/43/179
1991–2000 : United Nations Decade Against Drug Abuse - A/RES/S-17/2
1991–2000 : Fourth United Nations Development Decade : A/RES/45/199
1990–2000 : International Decade for the Eradification of Colonialism : A/RES/43/47
1990–1999 : United Nations Decade of International Law : A/RES/44/23
1990–1999 : International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction : A/RES/42/169 and A/RES/44/236
1990s : Third Disarmament Decade - A/RES/43/78 L and A/RES/45/62 A
1988–1997 : World Decade for Cultural Development - A/RES/41/187
1983–1993 : Second Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination - A/RES/38/14
1983–1992: United Nations Decade for Disabled Persons - A/RES/37/53
1981–1990 : International Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Decade - A/RES/35/18
1981–1990 : Third United Nations Development Decade - A/RES/35/56
1980–1990 : Second Disarmament Decade - A/RES/35/46
1980s : Industrial Development Decade for Africa - A/RES/35/66 B
1978–1988 : Transport and Communications Decade for Africa - A/RES/32/160
1976–1985 : United Nations Decade for Women: Equality, Development and Peace - A/RES/3520 (XXX)
1973–1983 : Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination - A/RES/2919 (XXVII)
1971–1980 : Second United Nations Development Decade - A/RES/2626 (XXV)
1970s : Disarmament Decade - A/RES/2602 E (XXIV)
1960–1970 : United Nations Development Decade - A/RES/1710 (XVI)

31 January

World Leprosy Day is celebrated on the last Sunday in January in over 100 countries.

02 February

Celebration of wetlands, Peatlands and Marshes

04 February

WHO estimates that 84 million people will die of cancer between 2005 and 2015 without intervention.

06 February

WHO is committed to the elimination of female genital mutilation within a generation and is focusing on advocacy, research and guidance for health professionals and health systems.

20 February

Observance of World Day of Social Justice should support efforts of the international community in poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, gender equity and access to social well-being and justice for all.

21 February

2011 International Mother Language Day: The information and communication technologies for the safeguarding and promotion of languages and linguistic diversity

08 March

International Women's Day. Let's celebrate women rights towards Equal access to education, training and science and technology: Pathway to decent work for women

21 March

Elimination of Racial Discrimination

21 March in Australia

Hamony Day - Everyone Belongs

22 March

Let's celebrate Water, the most precious resource on earth.

24 March

Towards Zero Tuberculosis Case; Campaign to eradicate TB.

04 April

Mine Awareness and assistance in Mine Action

07 April

The importance of raising awareness on Health

20 April

22 April

2011 theme : Pledge your Act today!

23 April

25 April

26 April

03 May

09 May

22 May

29 May

LAW.ORDER.PEACE.

31 May

Reduce Tobacco consumption - The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control

05 June

08 June

14 June

" More Blood, More Life "

17 June

20 JUNE

25 June

26 June

11 July

28 July

The first official WHO World Hepatitis Day is marked to increase the awareness and understanding of viral hepatitis and the diseases that it causes.

1 to 7 August

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide newborns with the nutrients they need.

19 August

To pay respect to those who have died or been injured in the course of their humanitarian work.

24 August

"Water for Life "

30 August

08 September

10 September

World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September promotes worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides.

26 September

28 September

World Rabies Day highlights the impact of human and animal rabies and promotes how to prevent and stop the disease by combating it in animals.

29 September

Cardiovascular diseases are the world’s largest killers, claiming 17.1 million lives a year.

26 to 30 September

04 October

05 October

10 October

13 October

"Vision 2020: The Right to Sight",

16 October

20 October

27 October

06 November

10 November

11 November

14 November

WHO estimates that more than 220 million people worldwide have diabetes. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without intervention.

16 November

World COPD Day is a global effort to expand understanding of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and advocate for better care for patients.

20 November

Road traffic crashes kill nearly 1.3 million people every year and injure or disable as many as 50 million more.

21 November

25 November

Violence against women and girls is a problem of pandemic proportions.

01 December

World AIDS Day on 1 December draws together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic.

02 December

03 December

05 December

10 December

11 December

18 December

UN Observances

-International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment - 6 November

-International Day for the Abolition of Slavery - December 02

-2011 - International Year of Forests

-International Day of Disabled Persons - December 03

-International Day of the Disappeared on August 30

-International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers - 29 May

-5 de Diciembre - Día Internacional del Voluntariado

-International Mother Language Day - 21 February

-International Polar Year Film Festival

-International Women Day - March 8

-EPCC - Education Partnerships for Children of Conflicts

-Military Spouse Appreciation Day - May 7

-Millennium Development Goals must be met

-2011 as the International Year of Chemistry.

-World Orphan Day - " Reunited Orphans"

-September 8 is International Literacy Day

-11 december is International Mountain Day

-The World Book and Copyright Day - 23 April

-GLOBAL CLINTON INITIATIVE (GCI)

-Universal Children Day - 20 November

-Veterans Day - 11 November

-World Blood Donor Day -14 JUNE

-World Day of Social Justice - 20 February

-World Animal Day is celebrated each year on 4 October.

-18 December is International Migrants Day

-World Day to Combat Desertification is observed every year on 17 June.

-World Drug Day - June 26

-World Fisheries Day - November 21

-World Health DAY - 7 April

-Africa Day - 25 May

-World Intellectual Property Day - April 26

-World Malaria Day - 25 April

-World Maritime Day - 26/30 September

-Harmony Day - March 21

-World Mental Health Day - October 10

-World Migratory Bird Day - 9 May

-21 March is International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

-World Oceans Day - June 8th

-World Population Day - 11 July

-World Press Freedom Day - 3 May

-April 22 is Earth Day.

-World Refugee Day - June 20

-World Science Day for Peace and Development - November 10

-World Statistics Day, October 20

-Human Rights Day - December 10

-World Television Day - November 21

-World Tuberculosis Day - March 24

-World Water Day - March 22

-26 September is World Rivers Day

-World Wetlands Day - February 2

-International Day for Biological Diversity - 22 May

-World Teachers Day - 5 October

-World Day of Audiovisual Heritage - 27 October

-2010- International Year of Biodiversity

-World Food Day-16 October

-International Seed Day - 26 April

-World Environment Day - 5 June

-World Day to Combat Desertification is observed every year on 17 June.

-International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action - 4 April

United Nations International Days

January

27 January International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust A/RES/60/7

February

4 February World Cancer Day [WHO]
20 February World Day of Social Justice
21 February International Mother Language Day [UNESCO]

March

8 March International Women's Day
21 March International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
21 March World Poetry Day [UNESCO]
21 March International Day of Nowruz
23 March World Meteorological Day [WMO]
24 March World Tuberculosis Day [WHO]
24 March International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims
25 March International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
25 March International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members —

April

2 April World Autism Awareness Day
4 April International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action
7 April Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Rwanda Genocide
7 April World Health Day [WHO]
12 April International Day of Human Space Flight
22 April International Mother Earth Day
23 April World Book and Copyright Day [UNESCO]
25 April World Malaria Day [WHO]
26 April World Intellectual Property Day [WIPO]
28 April World Day for Safety and Health at Work [ILO]
29 April Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare

May

Day of Vesak
3 May World Press Freedom Day
8–9 May Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives during the Second World War
14–15 May World Migratory Bird Day [UNEP]
15 May International Day of Families
17 May World Telecommunication and Information Society Day [ITU]
21 May World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
22 May International Day for Biological Diversity
29 May International Day of UN Peacekeepers
31 May World No-Tobacco Day [WHO]

June

4 June International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression
5 June World Environment Day [UNEP]
8 June World Oceans Day
12 June World Day Against Child Labour [ILO]
14 June World Blood Donor Day [WHO]
17 June World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
20 June World Refugee Day
23 June United Nations Public Service Day
23 June International Widow’s Day
25 June Day of the Seafarer [IMO]
26 June International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
26 June United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

July

2 July International Day of Cooperatives
11 July World Population Day UNDP decision 89/46
18 July Nelson Mandela International Day
28 July World Hepatitis Day —
30 July International Day of Friendship

August

9 August International Day of the World's Indigenous People
12 August International Youth Day
19 August World Humanitarian Day
23 August International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition [UNESCO]
29 August International Day against Nuclear Tests
30 August International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances

September

8 September International Literacy Day [UNESCO]
10 September World Suicide Prevention Day [WHO]
15 September International Day of Democracy
16 September International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
21 September International Day of Peace
25 September World Heart Day [WHO]
27 September World Tourism Day [UNWTO]
28 September World Rabies Day [WHO]
29 September World Maritime Day [IMO]

October

1 October International Day of Older Persons
2 October International Day of Non-Violence
3 October World Habitat Day
5 October World Teachers’ Day [UNESCO]
9 October World Post Day [UPU]
10 October World Mental Health Day [WHO]
13 October International Day for Disaster Reduction
13 October World Sight Day [WHO]
15 October International Day of Rural Women
16 October World Food Day [FAO]
17 October International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
24 October United Nations Day
24 October World Development Information Day
27 October World Day for Audiovisual Heritage [UNESCO]

November

6 November International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict
10 November World Science Day for Peace and Development [UNESCO]
14 November World Diabetes Day [WHO]
16 November International Day for Tolerance
17 November World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day [WHO]
17 November World Philosophy Day [UNESCO]
20 November Universal Children’s Day
20 November Africa Industrialization Day
20 November World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
21 November World Television Day
25 November International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
29 November International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

December

1 December World AIDS Day
2 December International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
3 December International Day of Persons with Disabilities
5 December International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
7 December International Civil Aviation Day [ICAO]
9 December International Anti-Corruption Day
10 December Human Rights Day
11 December International Mountain Day
18 December International Migrants Day
19 December United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation
20 December International Human Solidarity Day

United Nations Database

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Observances

International Days
International Weeks
International Years
International Decades

About the United Nations

UN At a Glance

UN At a Glance gives quick facts about the United Nations, plus links to Who's Who, the Public Inquiries Unit, Visiting the UN, and more.

UN Member States

This site provides a list of the 192 Member States of the UN, data on each country, how much each country pays to the UN (see Contribution to the UN Budget), and various sources of country information (see Related Links > Information Sources)

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About the UN
(large 70 page PDF document - 4.72mb)

Key UN documents

United Nations Headquarters website

Guided Tours of UN Offices in NY, Geneva and Vienna

United Nations Office in Geneva

United Nations Office in Vienna

United Nations Dag Hammarskjold Library

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are links to the broad focus areas of the UN's work:

Peace and Security

World Water Day - 22/03/2010

Water is the source of life and the link that binds all living beings on this planet. It is connected directly to all our United Nations goals: improved maternal and child health and life expectancy, women’s empowerment, food security, sustainable development and climate change adaptation and mitigation. Recognition of these links led to the declaration of 2005-2015 as the International Decade for Action “Water for Life”.

Secretary- General's Message for World Water Day

World Tuberculosis Day - 24/03/2010

The theme of this year’s observance of World TB Day is “On the move against tuberculosis”.

Please see the Secretary-General's message.

Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade - 25/03/2010

Slavery is abhorrent. It is explicitly prohibited by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the United Nations has reaffirmed this principle many times, including in the Durban Declaration adopted at the 2001 World Conference Against Racism.

But slavery and slavery-like practices continue in many parts of the world. Slavery is mutating and re-emerging in modern forms, including debt bondage, the sale of children, and the trafficking of women and girls for sex. Its roots lie in ignorance, intolerance and greed.

We must create a climate in which such abuse and cruelty are inconceivable. One way is by remembering the past and honouring the victims of the transatlantic slave trade. By reminding ourselves of past injustices, we help to ensure that such systematic abuse of human rights can never be repeated.

Those who controlled the transatlantic slave trade made huge profits from death, misery and exploitation. They presided over the forcible removal of millions of people from their homelands in Africa. Slave traders and owners subjected these forced migrants and their descendants to the most callous physical, mental and emotional abuse.

We see the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade in all the countries it affected. If we are wise, we will use this legacy for good. We will recognize that it is clear evidence of what can happen, if intolerance, racism and greed are allowed to triumph.

We should also take heart from those who, with great courage, succeeded in ending this institutionalized abuse. Their bravery ensured the eventual triumph of the values the United Nations represents: tolerance, justice, and respect for the dignity and worth of all human beings.

Today, we salute all the victims of slavery and we commit ourselves to ensuring that this practice, in all its forms, is eradicated.

For more information please visit http://www.un.org/en/slavery/

World Book and Copyright Day - 23/04/2010

23 April is a symbolic date for world literature for on this date in 1616, Cervantes, Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died. It is also the date of birth or death of other prominent authors such as Maurice Druon, Haldor K.Laxness, Vladimir Nabokov, Josep Pla and Manuel Mejía Vallejo.

It was a natural choice for UNESCO's General Conference, held in Paris in 1995, to pay a world-wide tribute to books and authors on this date, encouraging everyone, and in particular young people, to discover the pleasure of reading and gain a renewed respect for the irreplaceable contributions of those who have furthered the social and cultural progress of humanity. In this respect, UNESCO created both the World Book and Copyright Day and the UNESCO Prize for Children's and Young People's Literature in the Service of Tolerance.

World Press Freedom Day - 3/05/2010

World Press Freedom Day was established by the General Assembly of the United Nations in December, 1993, as an outgrowth of the Seminar on Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press. This Seminar took place in Windhoek, Namibia, in 1991 and led to the adoption of the Windhoek Declaration on Promoting Independent and Pluralistic Media (www.misanet.org/charters/windhoek.html). The Windhoek Declaration called for the establishment, maintenance and fostering of an independent, pluralistic and free press and emphasized the importance of a free press to the development and maintenance of democracy in a nation, and for economic development. World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on May 3rd, the date on which the Windhoek Declaration was adopted.

International Day of Families - 15/05/2010

The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 47/237 of 20 September 1993, proclaimed that 15 May of every year shall be observed as the International Day of Families. This annual observance reflects the importance which the international community attaches to families as basic units of society as well as its concern regarding their situation around the world. The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families as well as to promote appropriate action. The Day can become a powerful mobilizing factor on behalf of families in all countries, which avail themselves of this opportunity and demonstrate support of family issues appropriate to each society. (TEST2)

Secretary General's message for 2010

World No Tobacco Day - 31/05/2010

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL's MESSAGE ON WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY
31 May 2009

Every year, some 5.4 million people die from illnesses caused by tobacco consumption – 80 per cent of them in low- and middle-income countries. Up to half of all smokers die from a tobacco-related disease, and science has shown that second-hand smoke harms everyone who is exposed to it. Left unchecked, tobacco-related deaths will rise to more than 8 million by 2030.

Lung cancer, heart disease and other tobacco-related illnesses are part of a broader epidemic of non-communicable diseases, which include strokes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes. These diseases have become the world’s leading cause of mortality. Sixty per cent of all deaths globally are caused by them, with women being the hardest hit.

That we continue to allow such diseases to be caused by tobacco consumption is a global tragedy. It also comes at vast expense. Economies are harmed by the costs of treating of tobacco-caused diseases and by decreased productivity due to illness and premature death, while families whose members die or become ill due to tobacco use endure an unnecessary financial burden.

On this World No Tobacco Day, I urge governments everywhere to address this needless threat to public health.

World No Tobacco Day is observed around the world every year on May 31. The member states of the World Health Organization created World No Tobacco Day in 1987. It draws global attention to the tobacco epidemic and to the preventable death and disease it causes. It aims to reduce the 3.5 million yearly deaths from tobacco related health problems.

http://www.who.int/tobacco/communications/events/wntd/2009/en/index.html

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims - 21/11/2010

This Observance occurs on the third Sunday of November, annually

On 26 October 2005, the General Assembly invited Member States and the international community to recognize the third Sunday in November of every year as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims as acknowledgement for victims of road traffic crashes and their families ( resolution 60/5 ).

Secretary General's 2010 message

More information

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

World Television Day - 21/11/2010

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 November as World Television Day (through resolution 51/205 of 17 December 1996). This was done in recognition of the increasing impact television has on decision-making by alerting world attention to conflicts and threats to peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, including economic and social issues.

On 21 and 22 November 1996 the United Nations held the first World Television Forum, where leading media figures met under the auspices of the United Nations to discuss the growing significance of television in today's changing world and to consider how they might enhance their mutual cooperation. That is why the General Assembly decided to proclaim 21 November as World Television Day - to commemorate the date on which the first World Television Forum was held.

The celebration highlights how communications have become one of today's central international issues, not only for their relevance to the world economy, but also for their implications for social and cultural development. The celebration also underlines the ever-increasing demands faced by the United Nations to address the major issues facing humankind - and that television - as one of today's most powerful communications media, could play a role in presenting these issues to the world.

Further information

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25/11/2010

By resolution 54/134 of 17 December 1999, the General Assembly designated 25 November as theInternational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, andinvited governments, international organizations and NGOs to organizeactivities designated to raise public awareness of the problem on thatday. Women's activists have marked 25 November as a day againstviolence since 1981. This date came from the brutal assassination in1960, of the three Mirabal sisters, political activists in theDominican Republic, on orders of Dominican ruler Rafael Trujillo(1930-1961).

On 20 December 1993 the General Assembly adopted Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women (A/RES/48/104).

More information and useful links
Secretary General's 2010 message
Message from Under-Secretary-General and UN Women Executive Director Michelle Bachelet on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People - 29/11/2010

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed by the United Nations on or around 29 November each year, in accordance with General Assembly mandates contained in resolutions 32/40 B of 2 December 1977 , 34/65 D of 12 December 1979 , and subsequent resolutions adopted under agenda item “Question of Palestine.”

The date of 29 November was chosen because of its meaning and significance to the Palestinian people. On that day in 1947, the General Assembly adopted resolution 181 (II) ,which came to be known as the Partition Resolution. That resolution provided for the establishment in Palestine of a “Jewish State” and an“Arab State”, with Jerusalem as a corpus separatum under a special international regime. Of the two States to be created under this resolution, only one, Israel, has so far come into being.

The Palestinian people, who now number more than eight million,live primarily in the Palestinian territory occupied by Israel since1967, including East Jerusalem; in Israel; in neighbouring Arab States;and in refugee camps in the region.

Secretary General 2010 message

Further information and useful links

Booklet - The Question of Palestine and the United Nations (128 pages)

UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on YouTube

Links to UN System sites on the Question of Palestine:

* UN Information System on the Question of Palestine (UNISPAL)

* Question of Palestine and the UN

* The Middle East

* Division for Palestinian Rights

* Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People

* Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO)

* United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)

* United Nations Development Programme: Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP)

World AIDS Day - 1/12/2010

The General Assembly, in 1988, stated its deep concern about the pandemic proportions of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Noting that the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared 1 December 1988 World AIDS Day, the Assembly stressed the importance of observing that occasion (resolution 43/15). Today, some 40 million people are living with HIV/AIDS.

2010 Secretary General Message
More information and useful links

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery - 2/12/2010

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, 2 December, recalls the date of the adoption, by the General Assembly, of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of Others (resolution 317 (IV) of 2 December 1949).

2010 Secretary General message
More information

International Day of Persons with Disabilities - 3/12/2010

On 18 December 2007, the Assembly decided to rename the International Day of Disabled Persons, observed every year on 3 December, as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (resolution 62/127). It also called upon States that had no yet done so to consider signing and ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol as a matter of priority. The Convention was adopted on 13 December 2006.

The Assembly proclaimed the Day in 1992, at the conclusion of the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983-1992), by its resolution 47/3. The Decade had been a period of raising awareness and enacting measures to improve the situation of persons with disabilities and provide them with equal opportunities. Subsequently, the Assembly appealed to Member States to highlight the observance of the Day in order to further integrate people with disabilities into the society (resolution 47/88).

UN Enable 2010 website
2010 Secretary General message

International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development - 5/12/2010

The General Assembly has invited Governments to observe the International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development on 5 December each year ( resolution 40/212 of 17 December 1985). It urged them to heighten awareness of the contribution made by volunteer service, thereby stimulating people in all walks of life to offer their services as volunteers, both at home and abroad. In 2001, the International Year of Volunteers, the Assembly adopted a set of recommendations on ways that Governments and the United Nations system could support volunteering and asked that they be widely disseminated (resolution 56/38 of 5 December 2001).

More information

International Civil Aviation Day - 7/12/2010

In 1996, the General Assembly proclaimed 7 December as International Civil Aviation Day, and urged Governments, as well as national, regional, international and intergovernmental organizations, to take steps to observe it (resolution 51/33 of 6 December). the Day had been declared in 1992 by the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a United Nations specialized agency, to highlight and advance the benefits of international civil aviation. Observation of the Day started on 7 December 1994 - the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, which established ICAO.

Further information

International Anti-Corruption Day - 9/12/2010

International Anti-Corruption Day

On 31 October 2003, the General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption and requested that the Secretary-General designate the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as secretariat for the Convention's Conference of States parties ( resolution 58/4 ). The Assembly also designated 9 December as International Anti-Corruption Day, to raise awareness of corruption and of the role of the Convention in combating and preventing it. The Convention entered into force in December 2005.

More Information

Human Rights Day - 10/12/2010

All States and interested organizations were invited by the General Assembly in 1950 to observe 10 December as Human rights Day ( Resolution 423 (V) ). The Day marks the anniversary of the Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and is the most important commemorative day of the human rights calendar.

International Mountain Day - 11/12/2010

The UN General Assembly designated 11 December, from 2003 onwards, as 'International Mountain Day' ( Resolution 57/245 ). This decision results from the success of the UN International Year of Mountains in 2002, which increased global awareness of the importance of mountains, stimulated the establishment of national committees in 78 countries and strengthened alliances through promoting the creation of the International Partnership for Sustainable Development in Mountain Regions, known as the 'Mountain Partnership (WSSD, Johannesburg, 2 September 2002). FAO was the designated lead coordinating agency for International Year of Mountains and is mandated to lead observance of International Mountain Day.

International Migrants Day - 18/12/2010

As recommended by the UN's Economic and Social Council (decision 2000/288 of 28 july 2000), the General Assembly has proclaimed 18 December International Migrants Day ( resolution 55/93 of 4 December 2000). On that day in 1990, the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families was adopted (resolution 45/158). The Assembly has stressed the need to make further efforts to ensure respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all migrants. It is estimated that one in every 35 persons in the world is a migrant, living and working in a country other than his or her own. All countries have migrants among their population.

United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation - 19/12/2010

On 23 December 2004, the General Assembly declared 19 December of each year as the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation ( resolution 58/220 ). This marks the date, in 1978, when the General Assembly endorsed the Buenos Aires Plan of Action for Promoting and Implementing Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries (resolution 33/134).

International Human Solidarity Day - 20/12/2010

In connection with its observance of the first United Nations Decade for the Eradication of Poverty (1997-2006), the General assembly, on 22 December 2005, decided to proclaim 20 December of each year as International Human Solidarity Day ( resolution 60/209 ). In taking that action, it recalled that the Millennium Declaration identified solidarity as one of the fundamental and universal values that should underlie relations between peoples in the twenty-first century.

Holocaust Remembrance Day - 27/01/2011

Rejecting any denial of the Holocaust as a historical event, either in full or in part, the General Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution (A/RES/60/7) condemning "without reserve" all manifestations of religious intolerance, incitement, harassment or violence against persons or communities based on ethnic origin or religious belief, whenever they occur.

It decided that the United Nations would designate 27 January -– the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp -- as an annual International Day of Commemoration to honour the victims of the Holocaust, and urged Member States to develop educational programmes to instil the memory of the tragedy in future generations to prevent genocide from occurring again, and requested the United Nations Secretary-General to establish an outreach programme on the "Holocaust and the United Nations," as well as measures to mobilize civil society for Holocaust remembrance and education, in order to help prevent future acts of genocide.

The Holocaust was a turning point in history, which prompted the world to say "never again." The significance of resolution A/RES/60/7 is that it calls for a remembrance of past crimes with an eye towards preventing them in the future.

For more information and the Secretary General's statement please visit www.un.org/en/holocaustremembrance/

Holocaust Remembrance Day - 27/01/2011

Rejecting any denial of the Holocaust as a historical event, either in full or in part, the General Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution (A/RES/60/7) condemning "without reserve" all manifestations of religious intolerance, incitement, harassment or violence against persons or communities based on ethnic origin or religious belief, whenever they occur.

It decided that the United Nations would designate 27 January -– the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp -- as an annual International Day of Commemoration to honour the victims of the Holocaust, and urged Member States to develop educational programmes to instil the memory of the tragedy in future generations to prevent genocide from occurring again, and requested the United Nations Secretary-General to establish an outreach programme on the "Holocaust and the United Nations," as well as measures to mobilize civil society for Holocaust remembrance and education, in order to help prevent future acts of genocide.

The Holocaust was a turning point in history, which prompted the world to say "never again." The significance of resolution A/RES/60/7 is that it calls for a remembrance of past crimes with an eye towards preventing them in the future.

For more information and the Secretary General's statement please visit www.un.org/en/holocaustremembrance/

World Day for Social Justice - 20/02/2011

At its sixty-second session, in November 2007, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 20 February as World Day of Social Justice. The day is to be observed for the first time in 2009.

Member states were invited to devote this special day to the promotion of concrete national activities in accordance with the objectives and goals of the World Summit for Social Development and the twenty-fourth session of the General Assembly, entitled “World Summit for Social Development and beyond: achieving social development for all in a globalizing world”.

For more information please visit http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/social/intldays/IntlJustice/

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination - 21/03/2011

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid "pass laws". Proclaiming the Day in 1966, the General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination (resolution 2142 (XXI)).

For more information please visit http://www.un.org/en/events/racialdiscriminationday/ or see UNIC Canberra page.

World Water Day - 22/03/2011

World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This year's theme for World Water Day is "Water for Cities: Responding to the Urban Challenge.

An international day to celebrate freshwater was recommended at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). The United Nations General Assembly responded by designating 22 March 1993 as the first World Water Day.

For more information please visit the official website or UNIC Canberra World Water Day page.

World Meteorological Day - 23/03/2011

Each year, on 23 March, the World Meteorological Organization, its 189 Members and the worldwide meteorological community celebrate World Meteorological Day around a chosen theme. This day commemorates the entry into force, on that date in 1950, of the WMO Convention creating the Organization. Subsequently, in 1951, WMO was designated a specialized agency of the United Nations System.

This year, the theme is “Climate for you”.

For more information please visit the official website.

The Right to the Truth of Victims of Gross Human Rights Violations - 24/03/2011

On 21 December 2010, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 March as the International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims.

The purpose of the Day is to:

• Honour the memory of victims of gross and systematic human rights violations and promote the importance of the right to truth and justice;

• Pay tribute to those who have devoted their lives to, and lost their lives in, the struggle to promote and protect human rights for all;

• Recognize, in particular, the important work and values of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero, of El Salvador, who was assasinated on 24 March 1980, after denouncing violations of the human rights of the most vulnerable populations and defending the principles of protecting lives, promoting human dignity and opposition to all forms of violence.

The UN General Assembly, in its resolution, invites all Member States, international organizations and civil society organizations and individuals, to observe the International Day in an appropriate manner.

For more information please visit the official website.

Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade - 25/03/2011

The event is held annually pursuant to General Assembly resolution A/RES/62/122 of 17 December 2007, which called, inter alia, for 25 March to be designated as International Day of Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

The resolution requested the Secretary-General, in collaboration with UNESCO, to establish an educational outreach programme to mobilize educational institutions, civil society and other organizations to inculcate in future generations the “causes, consequences and lessons of the transatlantic slave trade, and to communicate the dangers of racism and prejudice”.

For more information please visit http://www.un.org/en/events/slaveryremembranceday/index.shtml

World Autism Awareness Day - 02/04/2011

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself during the first three years of life. The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and it has a tremendous impact on children, their families, communities and societies.

Throughout its history, the United Nations family has promoted the rights and well-being of the disabled, including children with developmental disabilities. In 2008, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force, reaffirming the fundamental principle of universal human rights for all.

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day (A/RES/62/139) to highlight the need to help improve the lives of children and adults who suffer from the disorder so they can lead full and meaningful lives.

For more information please visit the official website.

International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action - 04/04/2011

On 8 December 2005, the General Assembly declared that 4 April of each year shall be officially proclaimed and observed as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action (A/RES/60/97).

It called for continued efforts by States, with the assistance of the United Nations and relevant organizations, to foster the establishment and development of national mine-action capacities in countries where mines and explosive remnants of war constitute a serious threat to the safety, health and lives of the civilian population, or an impediment to social and economic development at the national and local levels.

For more information please visit the official website.

Commemoration of the Rwanda genocide - 07/04/2011

On 7 April every year, the UN commemorates the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, where more than 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus are estimated to have been killed within a period of 100 days.

Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare - 29/04/2011

The Conference of the States Parties at its Tenth Session (paragraph 23.3 of C-10/5, dated 11 November 2005) decided that a memorial Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare would be observed on 29 April each year––the date in 1997 on which the Chemical Weapons Convention entered into force.

This commemoration will provide an opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of chemical warfare, as well as to reaffirm the commitment of theOrganization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to the elimination of the threat of chemical weapons, thereby promoting the goals of peace, security, and multilateralism.

For more information please visit this website.

World Press Freedom Day - 03/05/2011

World Press Freedom Day is celebrated every year on 3 May worldwide. It is an opportunity to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; to evaluate press freedom, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. "21st Century Media: New Frontiers, New Barriers" is the theme of World Press Freedom Day 2011.

By decision 48/432 of 20 December 1993, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 3 May as World Press Freedom Day. Since then, it has been celebrated each year on 3 May, the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek. The document calls for free, independent, pluralistic media worldwide characterizing free press as essential to democracy and a fundamental human right.

The Declaration of Windhoek is a statement of free press principles as put together by newspaper journalists in Africa during a UNESCO seminar on “Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press” in Windhoek, Namibia, from 29 April to 3 May 1991.

For more information please visit this website.

International Day of Families - 15/05/2011

The International Day of Families is observed on the 15th of May every year. The Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly resolution in 1993 (A/RES/47/237) and reflects the importance the international community attaches to families. The International Day provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and increase the knowledge of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting families.

In its resolution, the General Assembly also noted that the family-related provisions of the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits of the 1990s and their follow-up processes continue to provide policy guidance on ways to strengthen family-centred components of policies and programmes as part of an integrated comprehensive approach to development.

The International Day of Families has inspired a series of awareness-raising events, including national family days. In many countries, that day provides an opportunity to highlight different areas of interest and importance to families. Activities include workshops and conferences, radio and television programmes, newspaper articles and cultural programmes highlighting relevant themes.

The 2011's commemoration of the International Day of Families focuses on the "Confronting Family Poverty and Social Exclusion."

For more information please see http://www.un.org/en/events/familyday/index.shtml

World No Tobacco Day - 31/05/2011

World No Tobacco Day is celebrated around the world every year on May 31. This yearly celebration informs the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what WHO is doing to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations.

For more information please visit the official website.

2012 as International Year of Sustainable Energy for All

2011 - International Year of Forests

2011 - International Year of Chemistry

2011 as the International Year of Chemistry.

2010 - International Year of Biodiversity

2010- International Year of Biodiversity

2013 - International Year of Water Cooperation

2013 : International Year of Water Cooperation by the resolution A/RES/65/154

2012 - International Year of Cooperatives

2012 : International Year of Cooperatives by the resolution A/RES/64/136

2012 - International Year of Sustainable Energy for All

2012 : International Year of Sustainable Energy for All by the resolution A/RES/65/151

2011 - International Year for People of African Descent

2011 : International Year for People of African Descent by the resolution A/RES/64/169

2011 - International Year of Chemistry

2011 : International Year of Chemistry by the resolution A/RES/63/209

2011 - International Year of Forests

2011 : International Year of Forests by the resolution A/RES/61/193

2010 - International Year of Youth (12 August 2010 — 11 August 2011)

2010 : International Year of Youth (12 August 2010 — 11 August 2011) by the reolution A/RES/64/134

2010 - International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures

2010 : International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures by the resolution A/RES/62/90

2010 - International Year of Biodiversity

2010 : International Year of Biodiversity by the resolution A/RES/61/203

2010 - International Year of the Seafarer

2010 : International Year of the Seafarer The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has designated 2010 as "The Year of the Seafarer" to recognise the contribution that the world's 1.5 million seafarers.

2009 - International Year of Reconciliation

2009 : International Year of Reconciliation by the resolution A/RES/61/17

2009 - International Year of Natural Fibres

2009 : International Year of Natural Fibres by the resolution A/RES/61/189

2009 - International Year of Human Rights Learning

2009 : International Year of Human Rights Learning by the resolution A/RES/62/171

2009 - International Year of Astronomy

2009 : International Year of Astronomy by the resolution A/RES/62/200

2009 - Year of the Gorilla (UNEP and UNESCO)

2009 : Year of the Gorilla (UNEP and UNESCO) "Save wildlife and wildplace around the World"

2008 - International Year of Planet Earth

2008: International Year of Planet Earth by the resolution A/RES/60/192

2008 - International Year of Languages

2008 : International Year of Languages by the resolution A/RES/61/266

2008 - International Year of Sanitation

2008 : International Year of Sanitation by the resolution A/RES/61/192

2008 - International Year of the Potato

2008 : International Year of the Potato by the resolution A/RES/60/191

2007/08 - International Polar Year (WMO)

2007/08 : International Polar Year (WMO)

2006 - International Year of Deserts and Desertification

2006 : International Year of Deserts and Desertification by the resolution A/RES/58/211

2005 - International Year of Microcredit

2005 : International Year of Microcredit by the resolution A/RES/53/197

2005 - International Year for Sport and Physical Education

2005 : International Year for Sport and Physical Education by the resolution A/RES/58/5

2005 - International Year of Physics

2005 : International Year of Physics by the resolution A/RES/58/293

2004 - International Year to Commemorate the Struggle against Slavery and its Abolition

2004 : International Year to Commemorate the Struggle against Slavery and its Abolition by the resolution A/RES/57/195

2004 - International Year of Rice

2004 : International Year of Rice by the resolution A/RES/57/162

2003 - Year of Kyrgyz Statehood

2003 : Year of Kyrgyz Statehood by the resolution A/RES/57/248

2003 - International Year of Freshwater

2003 : International Year of Freshwater by the resolution A/RES/55/196

2002 - United Nations Year for Cultural Heritage

2002 : United Nations Year for Cultural Heritage by the resolution A/RES/56/8

2002 - International Year of Mountains

2002 : International Year of Mountains by the resolution A/RES/53/24

2002 - International Year of Ecotourism

2002 : International Year of Ecotourism by the resolution A/RES/53/200

2001 - United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations

2001 : United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations by the resolution A/RES/53/22

2001 - International Year of Volunteers

2001 : International Year of Volunteers by the resolution A/RES/52/17

2001 - Mobilization against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance

2001 : International Year of Mobilization against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance by the resolution A/RES/53/132

2000 - International Year of Thanksgiving

2000 : International Year of Thanksgiving by the resolution A/RES/52/16

2000 - International Year for the Culture of Peace

2000 - International Year for the Culture of Peace by the resolution A/RES/52/15

1999 - International Year of Older Persons

1999 : International Year of Older Persons by the resolutions A/RES/47/5 and A/RES/50/141

1998 - International Year of the Ocean

1998 :International Year of the Ocean by the resolution A/RES/49/131

1996 - International Year for the Eradication of Poverty

1996 : International Year for the Eradication of Poverty by the resolution A/RES/48/183

1995 - United Nations Year for Tolerance

1995 : United Nations Year for Tolerance by the resolution A/RES/48/126

1995 - World Year of Peoples’ Commemoration of the Victims of the Second World War

1995 : World Year of Peoples’ Commemoration of the Victims of the Second World War by the resolution A/RES/49/25

1994 - International Year of the Family

1994 : International Year of the Family by the resolution A/RES/44/82

1994 - International Year of Sport and the Olympic Ideal

1994 : International Year of Sport and the Olympic Ideal by the resolution A/RES/48/10

1993 - International Year for the World's Indigenous People

1993 : International Year for the World's Indigenous People by the resolutions A/RES/45/164 A/RES/47/75

1992 - International Space Year

1992 : International Space Year by the resolution A/RES/44/46

1990 - International Literacy Year

1990 : International Literacy Year by the resolution A/RES/42/104

1987 - International Year of Shelter for The Homeless

1987 : International Year of Shelter for The Homeless by the resolutions A/RES/36/71 A/RES/37/221

1986 - International Year of Peace

1986 : International Year of Peace by the resolutions A/RES/37/16 A/RES/40/3

1985 - Year of The United Nations

1985: Year of The United Nations by the resolution A/RES/39/161 A

1985 - International Youth Year

1985:International Youth Year( Participation, Development, Peace) by the resolution A/RES/34/151

1983 - World Communications Year; Development of Communication Infrastructures

1983 : World Communications Year; Development of Communication Infrastructures by the resolution A/RES/36/40

1982 - International Year of Mobilization for Sanctions Against South Africa

1982 : International Year of Mobilization for Sanctions Against South Africa by the resolution A/RES/36/172 B

1981 - International Year for Disabled Persons

1981 : International Year for Disabled Persons by the resolution A/RES/31/123

1979 - International Year of The Child

1979 : International Year of The Child by the resolution A/RES/31/169

1978/79 - International Anti-Apartheid Year

1978/79 : International Anti-Apartheid Year by the resolution A/RES/32/105 B

1975 - International Women's Year

1975 : International Women's Year by the resolution A/RES/3010 (XXVII)

1974 - World Population Year

1974 : World Population Year by the resolution A/RES/2683 (XXV)

1971 - International Year for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Prejudice

1971:International Year for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Prejudice by the resolution A/RES/2544 (XXIV)

1970 - International Education Year

1970 : International Education Year by the resolutions A/RES/2306 (XXII)and A/RES/2412 (XXIII)

1968 - International Year for Human Rights

1968:International Year for Human Rights by resolution A/RES/2081 (XX)

1967 - International Tourist Year

1967:International Tourist Year by the resolution A/RES/2148 (XXI)

1965 - International Co-operation Year

1965 : International Co-operation Year by the resolution A/RES/1907 (XVIII)

1961- International Health and Medical Research Year

1961 : International Health and Medical Research Year by the resolution A/RES/1283 (XIII)

1959/60 - World Refugee Year

1959/60 : World Refugee Year by the resolution A/RES/1235 (XIII)

World Information Society Day -17/05/2010

On 27 March 2006, the General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/60/252 proclaiming 17 May as annual World Information Society Day. This Day will help raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information communications technologies (ICTs) can bring to societies and economies, as well as of ways to bridge the digital divide.

International Day Of United Nations Peacekeepers - 29/05/2010

By resolution 57/129 of 11 December 2002, the General Assembly designated 29 May as the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, to pay tribute to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve in United Nations peacekeeping operations for their high level of professionalism, dedication and courage, and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.

Secretary-General's remarks at wreath-laying ceremony on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers
New York, 29 May 2009

Secretary-General's remarks to Dag Hammarskjöld Medal awards ceremony on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

Secretary-General's Message for International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, 2009

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression - 4/06/2010

On 19 August 1982, at its emergency special session on the question of Palestine, the General Assembly decided to commemorate 4 June of each year as the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression (resolution ES-7/8).

World Environment Day - 5/06/2010

World Environment Day, commemorated each year on 5 June, is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action.

The Secretary-General's Message for World Environment Day, 2009

UNEP has prepared information materials for World Environment Day, including posters, a booklet, and press releases, which can be found at http://www.unep.org/wed/2009/english/

The Seal the Deal campaign http://www.sealthedeal2009.org is aimed at promoting a successful outcome for the Copenhagen climate change conference this December.

Countdown to Copenhagen climate change conference

Gateway to the UN System's Work on Climate Change

UN System links on environment http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/environment

World Oceans Day - 8/06/2010

Secretary-General's Message for World Oceans Day, 2009

General background to World Oceans Day:

In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly decided that, as from 2009, 8 June would be designated by the United Nations as “World Oceans Day” (resolution 63/111, paragraph 171). Many countries have celebrated World Oceans Day following the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, which was held in Rio de Janerio in 1992.

The oceans are essential to food security and the health and survival of all life, power our climate and are a critical part of the biosphere. The official designation of World Oceans Day is an opportunity to raise global awareness of the current challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans.

The theme of the inaugural observance of the World Oceans Day by the United Nations in 2009 is “Our Oceans, Our Responsibility”. The Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, in cooperation with the Department of Public Information, is organizing a number of events and activities at United Nations Headquarters in New York on 8 June 2009. http://www.un.org/Depts/los/reference_files/worldoceansday.htm

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought - 17/06/2010

The World Day to Combat Desertification, celebrated each year on June 17, is part of an international campaign by the United Nations to tackle global environmental deterioration, in particular the degradation of drylands. The day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

A/RES/49/115

World Refugee Day - 20 June

For years, many countries and regions have been holding their own Refugee Days and even Weeks. One of the most widespread is Africa Refugee Day, which is celebrated on 20 June in several countries.

The UN General Assembly, on 4 December 2000, adopted resolution 55/76 where it noted that 2001 marked the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, and that the Organization of African Unity (OAU) had agreed to have International Refugee Day coincide with Africa Refugee Day on 20 June.

The General Assembly therefore decided that, from 2001, 20 June would be celebrated as World Refugee Day.

This year the UN refugee agency, in its 60th year, will mark World Refugee Day with a rich and varied programme of events in locations worldwide and the launch of a new global awareness campaign. UNHCR will start rolling out the multimedia "One" campaign next week. Over the next six months it will increase awareness about the forcibly displaced and stateless by telling their powerful personal stories. The campaign will carry the message that "One Refugee Without Hope is too Many." Every day, millions of refugees face murder, rape and terror. We believe even 1 is too many.

United Nations Public Service Day - 23/06/2010

What is the scope of UNPAN?

UNPAN’s information and knowledge focus are on the following substantive areas:

Public policies
Constitutional and administrative law
Public sector organizations/civil service development
Public sector management issues, e.g.: financial management, human resource management, public service (operational) management, performance management, informational technology management
Public-private sector relations (regulations)
Socio-economic governance systems
Knowledge management systems and e-government
Transnational governance issues.

Where to find UNPAN?

The UNPAN system is centred at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and draws upon existing regional/subregional institutions devoted to public administration and finance in the context of social and economic development. So far, it is comprised of the following online regional centres (ORCs): eight in Africa and three in the Arab States, four in Asia and the Pacific, four in Latin America and the Caribbean, four in Europe, and six in North America.

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking - 26/06/2010

By resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse. This resolution recommended further action with regard to the report and conclusions of the 1987 International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/drug/index.html

International Day of Cooperatives - 4/07/2010

The United Nations has proclaimed first Saturday of July as the International Day of Cooperatives in recognition of the indispensable role cooperatives play in economic and social development.

http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/social/intldays/IntlCoops/

World Population Day - 11/07/2010

World Population Day is marked by the United Nations every year on 11 July, as on this date in 1987, the world’s population was estimated to have reached 5 billion.

http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/population

International Day of the World's Indigenous People - 9/08/2010

By resolution 49/214 of 23 December 1994, the General Assembly decided to celebrate the International Day of the World's Indigenous People on 9 August every year during the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People. In 2004 the Assembly proclaimed a Second International Decade by resolution 59/174. The goal of this Decade is to further strengthen international cooperation for the solution of problems faced by indigenous people in such areas as culture, education, health, human rights, the environment, and social and economic development.

For the Secretary-General's message and many resources, go to http://www.un.org/en/events/indigenous/2009/sgmessage.shtml

http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/indigenous

http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii/

International Youth Day - 12/08/2010

The General Assembly on 17 December 1999 in its resolution 54/120, endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth (Lisbon, 8-12 August 1998) that 12 August be declared International Youth Day. The Assembly recommended that public information activities be organized to support the Day as a way to promote better awareness of the World Programme of Action for Youth to the Year 2000 and Beyond, adopted by the General Assembly in 1995 (resolution 50/81).

http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/youth/index.html

http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unyin/iyouthday.htm

World Humanitarian Day - 19/08/2010

In December 2008, the General Assembly voted to observe World Humanitarian Day each year on 19 August, dedicated to increasing public understanding of humanitarian assistance activities worldwide and to honour humanitarian workers who have lost their lives or been injured in the course of their work.

The date coincides with the anniversary of the terrorist attack on the United Nations Office in Iraq in 2003, in which 22 people died. Among them was Sergio Vieira de Mello, at that time the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Iraq.

The General Assembly invites all countries, the UN system and international and non-governmental organizations to observe the day annually in an appropriate manner.

For 2009, the Day has three objectives:
• To draw attention to humanitarian needs worldwide;
• To acknowledge the ongoing work of humanitarian staff around the globe;
• To honour those who have lost their lives in humanitarian service.

RESOURCES:

UN Secretary-General's message for World Humanitarian Day, 19 August 2009

http://ochaonline.un.org/whd Dedicated website containing Poster, Video trailer, Key messages, Q&A, leaflet on the inaugural day and leaflet entitled "Delivering Aid, Despite the Risk"

Media Advisory - Australia

Media Advisory - New Zealand

Security Trends

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition - 23/08/2010

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, 2 December, recalls the date of the adoption, by the General Assembly, of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others [Resolution 317 (IV) of 2 December 1949]. The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition is celebrated every 23rd of August.

World Space Week - 4/09/2010

By resolution 54/68 of 6 December 1999, the General Assembly proclaimed World Space Week, to be observed between 4 and 10 October, to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition. The dates recall the launch, on 4 October 1957, of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik I, and the entry into force, on 10 October 1967, of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space.

International Literacy Day 8/09/2010

International Literacy Day, observed September 8, focuses attention on worldwide literacy issues and needs.

The Day was adopted by Resolution 1.141 of the 14th session of the UNESCO General Conference

United Nations Secretary-General's message for the Day

http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/literacy/index.html

http://www.unesco.org/en/literacy/advocacy/international-literacy-day/

International Day of Democracy - 15/09/2010

On 8 November 2007, by Resolution A/Res/62/7, the General Assembly proclaimed 15 September as the International Day of Democracy, inviting Member States, the United Nations system and other regional, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to commemorate the Day. The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, the national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

Secretary-Generals 2009 message for International Day of Democracy

UN International Day of Democracy website:
http://www.un.org/events/democracyday/

International Day For the Preservation of the Ozone Layer - 16/09/2010

On 19 December 1994, by A/RES/49/114, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 16 September the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the date, in 1987, on which the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was signed. States are invited to devote the Day each year to promote, at the national level, activities in accordance with the objectives of the Montreal Protocol and its amendments.

Secretary-General's 2009 message for International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

http://ozone.unep.org/Events/7C_ozone_day_home.shtml

International Day of Peace - 21/09/2010

The International Day of Peace was first established in 1981 by resolution 36/67 of the United Nations General Assembly to coincide with its opening session every September. In 2001 resolution 55/282 was strengthened to fix the date annually on 21 September and for it to be a day of nonviolence and cease-fire. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the Member States of the General Assembly.

Resources page for 2010 International Day of Peace

UN Office for Disarmament Affairs

Disarmament, Peace and Security information resources

World Maritime Day - 24/09/2010

Every year IMO celebrates World Maritime Day. The exact date is left to individual Governments but is usually celebrated during the last week in September. The day is used to focus attention on the importance of shipping safety, maritime security and the marine environment and to emphasize a particular aspect of IMO's work.

http://www.imo.org/About/mainframe.asp?topic_id=320

64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly - 28/09/2010

Website for the 64th Session of the General Assembly

The General Assembly of the United Nations opened its sixty-fourth session on 15 September at United Nations Headquarters in New York. The annual general debate, which traditionally features statements by Heads of State and Government as well as Ministers, began on Wednesday, 23 September 2009, and concludes on 30 September 2009.

Established in 1945 under the Charter of the United Nations, the General Assembly occupies a central position as the chief deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations. Comprising all 192 Members of the United Nations, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter. It also plays a significant role in the process of standard-setting and the codification of international law. The Assembly meets in regular session intensively from September to December each year, and thereafter as required.

More information

Secretary-General Message International Year of Older Persons - 1/10/2010

On 14 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly (by resolution 45/106) designated 1 October the International Day of Older Persons.

This was preceded by initiatives such as the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing - which was adopted by the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing - and endorsed later that year by the UN General Assembly.

In 1991, the General Assembly (by resolution 46/91) adopted the United Nations Principles for Older Persons.

In 2002, the Second World Assembly on Ageing adopted the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, to respond to the opportunities and challenges of population ageing in the 21st century and to promote the development of a society for all ages.

The theme of the year 2010's commemoration is "Older persons and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)". This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the UN International Day of Older Persons.

For more background information

International Day of Non-Violence - 2/10/2010

Reaffirming the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence, and desiring to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence, the General Assembly has decided to observe 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence. By its resolution 61/271 of 15 June 2007, the Assembly invited all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, regional and non-governmental organizations and individuals to commemorate the Day in an appropriate manner and to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness.

The resolution originated from a Declaration adopted at the “International Conference on Peace, Non-Violence and Empowerment -- Gandhian Philosophy in the 21st Century”. Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869.

Secretary-General's Message and Website for International Day of Non-Violence

World Habitat Day - 5/10/2010

By Resolution A/RES/40/202 the United Nations has designated the first Monday in October every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of human settlements and the basic right to adequate shelter for all. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.

For more information

World Teachers Day - 5/10/2010

World Teachers' Day was inaugurated by UNESCO in 1994 to focus attention on the extraordinary contributions and achievements of teachers. The Day is celebrated internationally on October 5, the day in 1966 on which a joint UNESCO/ILO conference adopted a recommendation on the Status of Teachers.

For more information including World Teachers Day

World Post Day - 9/10/2010

World Post Day is celebrated each year on 9 October, the anniversary of the establishment of the Universal Postal Union in 1874 in the Swiss Capital, Bern. It was declared World Post Day by the UPU Congress held in Tokyo, Japan in 1969. Since then, countries across the world participate annually in the celebrations. The Posts in many countries use the event to introduce or promote new postal products and services.

World Mental Health Day - 10/10/2010

World Mental Health Day is celebrated on 10 October each year. It is an internationally recognised day to promote mental health and wellbeing around the world.

Secretary-General's Message on World Mental Health Day
For more information please go to WHO website

International Day For Natural Disaster Reduction - 14/10/2010

By resolution 44/236 (22 December 1989), the General Assembly designated the second Wednesday of October International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction. The International Day was to be observed annually during the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction, 1990-1999. In 2001, the General Assembly decided to maintain the observance of the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction on the second Wednesday of October (resolution 56/195 of 21 December), as a vehicle to promote a global culture of natural disaster reduction, including disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness.

Secretary- General's Message
For more information please go to the International Strategy for Disaster Reducation website

International Day of Rural Women - 15/10/2010

The General Assembly has declared that 15 October of each year shall be officially proclaimed and observed as the International Day of Rural Women. By its resolution 62/136 of 18 December 2007, the Assembly urged Member States, in collaboration with the organizations of the United Nations and civil society, to undertake measures to improve the situation of rural women, including indigenous women, in their national, regional and global development strategies.

These measures include: creating an enabling environment to improve the situation of rural women; pursuing their political and socio-economic empowerment; supporting their full and equal participation in decision-making at all levels; integrating a gender perspective in the design, implementation, follow-up and evaluation of development policies and programmes; addressing their specific health needs; ensuring the rights of older women in rural areas to basic social services; mobilizing resources for increasing women’s access to existing savings and credit schemes; and integrating increased employment opportunities for rural women in all international and national development and poverty eradication strategies.

Secretary-General Message for International Day of Rural Women

World Food Day - 16/10/2010

The aim of World Food Day, proclaimed in 1979 by the Conference of the FAO of the United Nations, is to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. The Day marks the date of the founding of the FAO in 1945. In 1980, the General Assembly endorsed observance of the Day in consideration of the fact that “food is a requisite for human survival and well-being and a fundamental human necessity” (resolution 35/70 of 5 December).

Secretary-General Message

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty - 17/10/2010

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has been observed every year since 1993, when the General Assembly, by resolution 47/196, designated this day to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries, particularly in developing countries - a need that has become a development priority.

24-30 Oct Disarmament Week

The annual observance of Disarmament Week, which begins on the anniversary of the founding of the Untied Nations, was called for in the Final Document of the General Assembly 1978 special session on disarmament (resolution S-10/2). States were invited to highlight the danger of the arms race, propagate the need for its cessation and increase public understanding of the urgent tasks of disarmament.

In 1995, the Assembly invited Governments, as well as non-governmental organizations, to continue taking an active part in Disarmament Week (resolution 50/72 B of 12 December). It invited the Secretary-General to continue using the United Nations information entities as widely as possible to promote a better understanding among the public of disarmament problems and the aims of the Week.

Useful links

World Development Information Day - 24/10/2010

The United Nations General Assembly instituted World Development Information Day at its twenty-seventh session in December 1972 (A/Res/3038 XXVII) with the object of drawing the attention of world public opinion each year to development problems and the necessity of strengthening international co-operation to solve them. The General Assembly also decided that World Development Information Day should coincide, in principle, with United Nations Day to stress the central role of development in the work of the United Nations.

World Diabetes Day - 14/11/2010

Welcoming the fact that the International Diabetes Federation has been observing World Diabetes Day globally since 1991, with co-sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO), the General Assembly, on 20 December 2006, designated 14 November, the current World Diabetes Day, as a United Nations Day, to be observed every year beginning in 2007 ( resolution 61/225 ).

Recognizing that diabetes is a chronic, debilitating and costly disease which poses serious challenges to development, the Assembly encouraged Member States to develop national policies for its prevention, treatment and care in line with the sustainable development of their health-care systems, taking account of internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.

The Assembly also invited all Member States, relevant organizations of the United Nations system and other international organizations, as well as civil society, including non-governmental organizations and the private sector, to observe World Diabetes Day in an appropriate manner, including through education and the mass media.

Secretary General's message 2010

More information

United Nations Day - 24/10/2010

The anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter -- 24 October 1945 -- has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948. It has traditionally been marked throughout the world by meetings, discussions and exhibits on the achievements and goals of the Organization. In 1971, the General Assembly recommended that Member States observe it as a public holiday (resolution 2782 (XXVI)).

Secretary-General's message for United Nations Day, 2009

United Nations Day, 2008

Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict - 6/11/2010

On 5 November 2001, the General Assembly declared 6 November of each year as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict ( resolution 56/4 ). In taking this action, it considered that damage to the environment in times of armed conflict impairs ecosystems and natural resources long after the period of conflict, often extending beyond the limits of national territories and the present generation.

More information

International Day for Tolerance - 16/11/2010

In 1996, the General Assembly invited Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November, with activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public ( resolution 51/95 of 12 December). This action came in the wake of the United Nations Year for Tolerance, 1995, proclaimed by the Assembly in 1993 (resolution 48/126). The Year had been declared on the initiative of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); on 16 November 1995, the UNESCO member States had adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action for the Year.

More information

World Philosophy Day - 18/11/2010

Proclaimed by the UNESCO General Conference, 33rd session, Paris 2005 (Resolution 33C/45 ).

Celebrated at UNESCO’s initiative every third Thursday of November since 2002, World Philosophy Day will take place this year on 18 November 2010.

World Philosophy Day was introduced in 2002 by UNESCO to honour philosophical reflection in the entire world by opening up free and accessible spaces. Its objective is to encourage the peoples of the world to share their philosophical heritage and to open their minds to new ideas, as well as to inspire a public debate between intellectuals and civil society on the challenges confronting our society.

More Information

Universal Children's Day - 20/11/2010

The General Assembly recommended in 1954 (resolution 836 (IX)) that all countries institute a Universal Children's Day, to be observed as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children and of activity promoting the welfare of the world's children. It suggested to Governments that the Day be observed on the date which each considers appropriate. The date of 20 November marks the day in which the Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rigths of the Child, in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989.

In Australia, Universal Children's Day is celebrated every year on the 4th Wednesday in October.

More information

Africa Industrialization Day - 20/11/2010

Within the framework of the Second Industrialization Development Decade for Africa (1991-2000), the General Assembly proclaimed 20 November as Africa Industrialization Day ( resolution 44/237 of 22 December 1989). The Day is intended to mobilize the commitment of the international community to the industrialization of Africa.

Secretary General's message for 2010
More information and useful links