World Soil Day 2025; December 5th.

FORUM: "Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities." World Soil Day 2025. Urban soils provide essential ecosystem services: they support food production, filter water, store carbon, regulate temperatures, and sustain biodiversity. However, soil sealing, pollution, and urban expansion threaten these benefits, increasing flood risks, intensifying heat islands and threatening food production in peri-urban land. Solutions exist. De-sealing, green roofs, urban vegetation and agriculture, composting, and sustainable urban planning can turn soil into opportunities to strengthen climate action, improve public health, reduce disaster risks, and foster inclusive and greener cities. It’s a day to reflect on the importance of soil in the natural system and celebrate the actions being taken worldwide to safeguard it. This World Soil Day, the spotlight is on soil as a critical resource for life on Earth. Healthy soils play a key role in maintaining biodiversity, reducing erosion and pollution, improving water filtration, and building resilient and sustainable food systems. They also contribute significantly to climate action through carbon sequestration, Let's underscore the importance of accurate soil data and information in understanding soil characteristics and supporting informed decision making on sustainable soil. WSD is a unique global platform that not only celebrates soils but also an occasion to empower and engage citizens around the world to improve soil health. Our planet’s survival depends on the precious link between soil and water. Over 95% of our food originates from these two fundamental resources. Soil and water are vital for nutrient absorption by plants, binds our ecosystems together. This symbiotic relationship is the foundation of our agricultural systems. However, in the face of climate change and human activity, our soils are being degraded, putting excessive pressure on our water resources. Erosion disrupts the natural balance, reducing water infiltration and availability for all forms of life. Sustainable soil management practices, such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, organic matter addition, and cover cropping, improve soil health, reduce erosion and pollution, and enhance water infiltration and storage. These practices also preserve soil biodiversity, improve fertility, and contribute to carbon sequestration, playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Follow the conversations with the hashags: #worldSoilDay, #5December, #soilandwater, #soil.

EVENT: On December 5th, from 13:15 to 14:30 GMT, the World Soil Day 2025 will be celebrated at FAO HQ in Rome, Italy. . Healthy soils are the foundation of life on Earth. World Soil Day (WSD) celebrates soils and raises awareness of their importance for sustainable agrifood systems and human well-being. The theme for 2025 is "Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities" and focuses on the role of soils in cities. Related  Documents: Concept Note & FAO Webpage, Register to participate!

During the celebration, we will celebrate soils and raise awareness of their importance for sustainable agrifood systems, climate action, biodiversity, and human well-being. The annual celebration, which also coincides with the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great of Thailand, pays tribute to His Majesty’s lifelong dedication to championing sustainable soil management as a means to improve people’s quality of lives. 

The Permanent Missions of the Kingdom of Thailand, and XXX, together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, invite you to commemorate the World Soil Day in New York, on 4 December 2025, from 13.15 - 14.30 hrs at Conference Room (TBC), UN Headquarters. The event will be conducted in English only and webcasted on UN WebTV. World Soil Day 2025 is a call to action. It invites policymakers, scientists, city leaders, civil society, and citizens everywhere to reimagine urban spaces through their soils, ensuring that people and nature can thrive together in healthy green cities. The event will feature a variety of voices including Member States, UN Agencies, New York City’s Mayor’s Office, scientists, professors, students and local farmers.

Rome (Italy), 05/12/2025 -   World Soil Day official celebration

Healthy soils for healthy cities.



Healthy soils are the foundation of life on Earth. Each year on 5 December, World Soil Day (WSD) celebrates soils and raises awareness of their importance for sustainable agrifood systems, climate action, biodiversity, and human well-being.

The theme for 2025, “Healthy soils for healthy cities”, focuses on the role of soils in cities and the challenges posed by soil sealing and urbanization.

With two-thirds of the world’s population expected to live in cities by 2050, soils are the foundations of sustainable and resilient cities.

World Soil Day 2025 is a call to action! It invites policymakers, scientists, city leaders, civil society, and citizens everywhere to reimagine urban spaces through their soils, ensuring that people and nature can thrive together in healthy green cities.

Draft agenda
Time (CET)Programme

10:00 – 10:05 Welcome and Introduction
Ms Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General, FAO
10:05 – 10:35 High-level Opening

Dr. QU Dongyu, Director-General, FAO

Ms Anacláudia Marinheiro Centeno Rossbach, Executive Director, United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
10:35 – 10:40 Artistic performance: “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”
10:40 – 10:50 Moderator: Mr Lifeng Li, Director, Land and Water Division, FAO

Remarks by H.E. Igor L. Golubovskiy, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to FAO

Video presentation of the laureate of Glinka World Soil Prize 2025

Delivery of the Glinka World Soil Prize 2025 by Dr QU Dongyu, Director-General, FAO, and H.E. Igor L. Golubovskiy, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to FAO

10:50 – 10:55 Remarks by the laureate of the Glinka World Soil Prize 2025
10:55 – 11:05 Remarks by Ms Narumol Sanguanvong, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand

Video presenting the winner of the King Bhumibol World Soil Day Award 2025

11:05 – 11:10 Video
World Soil Day 2025 animation: “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”
11:10 – 11:15 Announcement of the winners of the contest “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”
By Ms. Thorunn Wolfram, Secretary of the Global Soil Partnership, FAO
11:15 – 11:20 Conclusions and closing remarks
Ms Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General, FAO

Contact - world-soil-day@fao.org

LIVESTREAM: The theme for 2025, “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”, focuses on the role of soils in cities and the challenges posed by soil sealing and urbanization. With two-thirds of the world’s population expected to live in cities by 2050, soils are the foundation of sustainable and resilient cities Watch the celebration of World Soil Day 2025!

International Volunteer Day 2025; December 5th.

FORUM: “Every contribution matters” International Volunteer Day 2025. More than 2.1 billion volunteers worldwide act every month to foster solidarity and humanity. Their efforts are vital for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, responding to humanitarian emergencies, and building resilient communities. IVY 2026 calls on governments, United Nations entities, civil society, academia and the private sector to deepen global understanding of volunteerism, promote knowledge-sharing, and integrate volunteering into national development strategies. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #5December, #everycontributionmatters, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #IVD2025.

EVENTS: On December 5th; The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) celebrates International Volunteer Day 2025 under the theme “Every contribution matters”, announcing two major milestones: The global launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026, as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly through resolution 78/127; and the release of the 2026 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report (SWVR), which sets the tone for an initiative to recognize and advance volunteer contributions to sustainable development. The official opening of IVY 2026 takes place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Germany, Kazakhstan and UNV. The event features high-level remarks by the President of the General Assembly, the co-hosts, a multi-stakeholder Global Call to Action for the Future of Volunteering, and the unveiling of the 2026 SWVR.

Around the world, events marking International Volunteer Day and the launch of the International Volunteer Year are taking place this week; from a running activity and parade in Bangkok, to the International Forum of Civil Participation in Moscow, celebrations in Nantong and Shanghai in China, a regional launch in Uzbekistan and Kenya’s national launch at the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, among many others.   Register to participate!

Statement of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres International Volunteer Day 2025; December 5th.

In an era of political division and social isolation, volunteering offers a powerful way to forge connections and foster our shared humanity.

On this International Volunteer Day, we honour the millions across the globe stepping forward to serve their communities and advance the greater good.

This year’s theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” reminds us that everyone has something meaningful to offer, and that every cause, from hunger, to climate, to humanitarian action, benefits from the enthusiasm and expertise of volunteers.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the more than 14,000 people who have served through the United Nations Volunteers programme, and to the countless others who give their time and talents to help neighbours and strangers alike. Your commitment, solidarity and compassion are shaping a better world.

This week also marks the launch of the International Volunteer Year 2026.

Over the next twelve months, I urge everyone, everywhere to volunteer for a cause that matters to you. In times of crisis and uncertainty, you can be the change you wish to see.

Together, we can grow a global movement of volunteers, and build a brighter, more caring future for all.

António Guterres, Secretary-General.

Statement from UNDP Associate Administrator Haoliang Xu on International Volunteer Day 2025.

Today on International Volunteer Day 2025, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of volunteers across the world. That includes those who rush to disasters, who teach, mentor, and open
doors for the next generation or simply those who listen when no one else will.
We're also reminded that every contribution matters. More than 2.1 billion people volunteer every month. That's one in three working age adults choosing freely and without pay to make someone else's life better. The United Nations Development Program has been extremely proud to host United Nations volunteers since 1971. UNV has been an engine that promotes volunteerism worldwide and mobilizes talented individuals as UN volunteers across the United Nations system.
In 2025 alone, over 14,500 of them played a vital role from responding to disasters and conflicts, building peace, and advancing development in some of the world's most challenging contexts. The commitment, expertise and the compassion of UN volunteers are quietly changing the world. This international volunteer day also marks the launch of the international year of volunteer for sustainable development in 2026. It is an invitation to listen more deeply to volunteers, to support them more smartly, to measure their impact better and to celebrate their diversity and creativity.
Because when more people volunteer, communities grow stronger and the sustainable development goals become more likely a reality on the ground.
Finally, on behalf of UNDP, I would like to thank volunteers everywhere for your time, your skills, and your unshakable belief that a better word is possible.

Happy International Volunteer Day.

PUBLICATION: For more details, visit International Volunteer Day 2025, International Volunteer Year 2026, and read the 2026 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report.

 

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: Social media materials are available on UNV's Trello.

LIVESTREAM: Opening Event of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026.

Aligned with the 2025 International Volunteer Day theme, "Every contribution matters", the event will serve as a platform for Member States to pledge concrete actions to operationalize Resolution 78/127 such as integrating volunteerism into national development strategies and establishing national committees to lead their International Volunteer Year campaigns at the country level.

• Opening
• Special Remarks
• Launch of the 2026 State of the World's Volunteerism Report: Every contribution matters
• Plenary
• Closing

This opening event will bring together Member States, United Nations entities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to elevate the visibility of volunteers and position volunteerism as a strategic enabler of sustainable development, peacebuilding and humanitarian response.

The event will feature the launch of the 2026 State of the World's Volunteerism Report, setting the tone for a year-long global initiative to recognize, amplify and advance the contributions of volunteers to global development and resilience.

The event is co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Kazakhstan and Germany and the United Nations Volunteers programme.
Get the Concept note!

Learn more about the International Volunteer Year.

World Soil Day 2024; December 5th.

FORUM: "Caring for Soils:Measure. Monitor. Manage." World Soil Day 2024. It’s a day to reflect on the importance of soil in the natural system and celebrate the actions being taken worldwide to safeguard it. This World Soil Day, the spotlight is on soil as a critical resource for life on Earth. Healthy soils play a key role in maintaining biodiversity, reducing erosion and pollution, improving water filtration, and building resilient and sustainable food systems. They also contribute significantly to climate action through carbon sequestration, Let's underscore the importance of accurate soil data and information in understanding soil characteristics and supporting informed decision making on sustainable soil. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: 

EVENTS: On December 5th, a high-level panel discussion organized by the UN and FAO will be held a the FAO HQ, The event raises global awareness about the need to protect and sustainably manage our soils. This year the World Soil Day calls attention to soil’s vital role in ensuring food security, supporting livelihoods, and promoting human well-being. This year marks the 10 years of WSD celebration and will be hosted by the Kingdom of Thailand, the first commemoration celebrated outside FAO headquarters. Coinciding with the Sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 2 to 13 December 2024, it will be broadcast live for increased visibility and global participation. Register to participate!

PRIZE: The Land Development Department of Thailand (LDD) wins the Glinka World Soil Prize 2024.
The Glinka World Soil Prize, presented on World Soil Day 2024, honors efforts in soil management and combating degradation.

GET INVOLVED! Take part in the effort to build a future where healthy soils and thriving ecosystems go hand in hand.

International Volunteer Day 2024; December 5th.

FORUM:''The intergenerational power of volunteering.'' International Volunteer Day 2024. On December 5th, we pay tribute to volunteers around the world. It is simply not possible to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without including people at all stages, at all levels, and at all times. Volunteering makes people part of the solutions. Volunteerism lets people and communities participate in their development. The challenges we face—climate change, conflicts, and social injustices can feel overwhelming. Yet, in these trying moments, the spirit of volunteerism shines brighter than ever. In every corner of the world, volunteers are usually the first to respond. They rise to meet challenges with courage, dedication, and selflessness. Volunteers create a richer culture of service within their communities. They help bridge the gap between generations and support sustainable development. Volunteering allows us to work together across generations to achieve the SDGs. Volunteering is an intergenerational cycle. Let us recognize their contributions, onsite or online, for every act of service counts. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #5December, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #IVD2024, #Ifeveryonedid.

EVENTS: At the UNHQ, on December 5th; the International Volunteer Day 2024 will be observed.

At UNOV, The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) will held a virtual event to demonstrate its commitment to communities and the wellbeing of Volunteers across the globe through concrete community volunteer activities carried out with national and UN system partners.

Statement of the Secretary-General for International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social of Development 2024; December 5th.

The task of building a better world belongs to all people.

On International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, we honour the women and men who devote their time, energy and skills to make our world a healthier, more peaceful and humane place for all.

Whether responding to natural disasters, supporting communities in conflict or working to alleviate poverty, the selflessness and courage of volunteers shine through. And we are reminded that even the smallest acts have the power to change lives.

Our own United Nations Volunteers work to advance peace, justice and equality in 169 countries across the globe. This spirit of solidarity is the lifeblood of the Pact of the Future – adopted in September at the United Nations. The Pact illuminates a path forward grounded in trust and cooperation.

Volunteers embody the best of humanity. On this important day, let’s draw inspiration from their example, and resolve to do our part to help shape a better world for all.

United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement from Mr.Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the International Volunteer Day 2024; December 5th.

This year’s International Volunteer Day is a moment to recognise the one billion people who volunteer across the world.

From local communities to global initiatives, volunteers remind us that progress often starts with the selfless actions of those willing to make a difference.

In the year 2024, they once again demonstrated their pivotal role as first responders in times of crises.

That includes United Nations Volunteers who have supported humanitarian efforts in Gaza, assisted families affected by the war in Ukraine and helped restore basic services and livelihoods in Myanmar.

Today’s volunteers are demonstrating remarkable adaptability, embracing new ways to serve.

For instance, hundreds of volunteers, committed to advancing peace with nature were at the heart of the Conference of the Parties in Colombia earlier this year.

Or look to South Sudan, where volunteers are taking a stand against sexualized violence during local elections. Our world is changing, and so too are the ways volunteers engage. The rise of digital and remote volunteering enables anyone to contribute also to global causes from anywhere in the world.

From mentoring young innovators, to using technology to craft environmental solutions, volunteers are actively taking the reins in shaping a more sustainable future.

So far in 2024, over 13,000 on-site UN Volunteers have served with over 70 UN entities and missions as part of the UN Volunteers programme, which is proudly hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This year has also seen a record number of 10,000 Online Volunteers, ranging from the ages of 18 to 88.

Hailing from some 180 countries, UN Volunteers bring with them unique perspectives, experiences, and skills that enrich our collective efforts.

As the UN Secretary-General has highlighted, volunteers from diverse backgrounds must be able to play an even greater role in driving progress on the Sustainable Development Goals at the country- and community-levels.

On behalf of UNDP, I would like to express my deepest gratitude and admiration to every volunteer who has given their time, energy, and expertise to improve our world.

Your work embodies the Pact for the Future, which champions the belief that true progress is driven by the contributions of people on the ground, working across borders to shape what comes next.

Indeed, your efforts are not only changing our world today.
Ultimately, you are paving the way for a legacy of possibilities, resilience, and a lasting optimism that will inspire those who inherit this world.

Happy International Volunteer Day and thank you.

Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Find out how you can volunteer!

To access UNV's communication materials for the celebration of the International Volunteer Day, please click here.

World Soil Day 2023; December 5th.

FORUM:“Soil and Water: a source of life.” World Soil Day 2023. The campaign aim to raise awareness on the importance and relationship between soil and water in achieving sustainable and resilient agriood systems. WSD is a unique global platform that not only celebrates soils but also an occasion to empower and engage citizens around the world to improve soil health. Our planet’s survival depends on the precious link between soil and water. Over 95% of our food originates from these two fundamental resources. Soil and water are vital for nutrient absorption by plants, binds our ecosystems together. This symbiotic relationship is the foundation of our agricultural systems. However, in the face of climate change and human activity, our soils are being degraded, putting excessive pressure on our water resources. Erosion disrupts the natural balance, reducing water infiltration and availability for all forms of life. Sustainable soil management practices, such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, organic matter addition, and cover cropping, improve soil health, reduce erosion and pollution, and enhance water infiltration and storage. These practices also preserve soil biodiversity, improve fertility, and contribute to carbon sequestration, playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Follow the conversations with the hashags: #worldSoilDay, #5December, #soilandwater, #soil.

EVENTS: On December 5th, from 12:30 – 14:00 CET at the Sheikh Zayed Center will be held a symposium to mark the Observance of World Soil Day 2023. Together, let’s pave the way for a future where soil and water are sustainably managed to continue to be the steadfast guardians of our environment and climate. Register to Participate and Get the Agenda Programe of the World Soil Day 2023 Ceremony. The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), during the COP28 in Dubai, Emirates Arab States will held a workshop entitled “Forests, Food, Carbon and Climate’’. Soil, often overlooked, is a strategic tool to improve climate resilience, food security, carbon capture and storage, and a highly biodiverse asset for all who walk upon it. Watch the FAO World Soil Day 2023 Live ceremony event!

STATEMENTS: Key messages World Soil Day 2023 (5 December) – Soil and water, a source of life.

Get the communication materials!

Sustainable agricultural management is of crucial importance for terrestrial ecosystem functioning in the face of changing climate. Small or big, we encourage you mark your agenda, alert your audience, contact your local, regional and global advocates and make use of the free campaign toolkit.

World Soil Day 2022; December 5th.

 FORUM: 'Soils, where food begins.' World Soil Day 2022.Soil health and fertility have a direct influence on nutrient content of food crops  What do plants really need to grow? Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Soil4Nutrition,  #WorldSoilDay, #5December.

EVENTS: Register now to the official event. on Dec. 5th from  12:20- 13:45 CET.

 high level opening session, artistic performance and opresentation of the soil prize winners and the soil contest results ...and more!!!  

A farmer-to-farmer training platform.

The FAO have designed a platform to share soil information and knowledge on the different components and aspects of the Global Soil Doctors Programme - a farmer-to-farmer training platform, and the importance of soil as a vital resource for farmers, policy makers, development planners, agricultural extension workers, NGOs, private sectors and any other practitioners/interested stakeholder.

 

International Volunteer Day 2022; December 5th.

FORUM: "Solidarity through volunteering." International Volunteer Day 2022.

Rising inequalities throughout the world implore that we need to work together to find common solutions. Volunteers, drawn together by solidarity, develop solutions to urgent development challenges and for the common good. Volunteering is where compassion meets solidarity. Both share the same root values – supporting each other from a position of trust, humility, respect and equality. 

Follow the conversation with the hastags; #5december, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #solidaritythroughvolunteering, #wemustacttogether and #wemustactnow.

EVENTS: In the lead up to IVD2022, join UNV and volunteers around the globe to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism . We are proud of all volunteers who are role models in their communities by working together in solidarity and personifying inspiration in action.