International Equal Pay Day 2026; Septembre 18th.

FORUM: “Equal Pay for work of equal value — For everyone, everywhere.” International Equal Pay Day 2026. During the day, we will celebrate achievements and discuss the challenges on the way to achieving equal pay as well as provide an opportunity for you to make a new equal pay pledge. Across all regions, women are paid less than men, with the gender pay gap estimated at around 20% globally. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls continue to be held back owing to the persistence of historical and structural unequal power relations between women and men, poverty and inequalities and disadvantages in access to resources and opportunities that limit women’s and girls’ capabilities. Progress on narrowing that gap has been slow. While equal pay for men and women has been widely endorsed, applying it in practice has been difficult. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) promote decent work and economic growth by seeking full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value. Mainstreaming of a gender perspective is crucial in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Achieving equal pay is an important milestone for human rights and gender equality. It takes the effort of the entire world community and more work remains to be done. Follow the conversation with the hashtags #EqualPayDay, #GenerationEquality, #SDG5, #EqualPay and #18September.

EVENTS: You are invited attend a High-Level Pledging Event to mark International Equal Pay Day 2026 on September 18th, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm EDT organized by the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC), which is led by the International Labour Organization , the UN Women, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). During the observance of the International Equal Pay Day, the ILO is reaffirming a fundamental principle: work of equal value deserves equal pay. The participants are invited to share lessons learned and good practices that can be adapted and applied to different contexts.

Statement from the ILO Director-General on International Equal Pay Day 2026; Septembre 10th.

On International Equal Pay Day, the ILO reiterates a simple but fundamental principle: work of equal value deserves equal pay.

Yet women around the world earn 18 per cent less than men.

This is not just a statistic. It is millions of women whose work supports families, businesses, communities and economies, but who are still not being paid fairly.

This must change.

Together, governments, employers and workers can remove the structural barriers that underpin this injustice and strengthen the laws and institutions that promote equal pay. And through social dialogue, including collective bargaining, they can address the undervaluation of work done by women, strengthen pay transparency, build fairer wage structures, and ensure that women have an equal voice in shaping their economic life.

The world of work is changing profoundly. But our principles remain steadfast.

The new Resolution concerning the ILO transformative agenda for gender equality in the world of work only confirms our determination to close the gender pay gap.

Equal pay is a matter of rights, principle, dignity and social justice – for every worker, everywhere.

ILO Director-general.

Statement of the UN Women on the celebration of the International Equal Pay Day 2026; Septembre 18th.

The gender pay gap affects far more than a pay cheque. It means lower lifetime earnings, less economic security, smaller pensions, and greater inequality across generations. And for many women – including migrant women, women with disabilities, and women from racial and ethnic minorities – the gap can be even wider.

Equal pay for work of equal value is therefore critical for reducing poverty, advancing women’s economic justice and rights, and building more inclusive economies globally.

This year has brought renewed momentum. At the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, governments, employers, workers, and private-sector leaders renewed commitments to tackling the structural barriers holding women back at work. The adoption in June of ILO Convention no. 193, the first international labour standard on decent work in the platform economy, holds the potential for stronger protections for women working through digital platforms – from unfair pay, harassment, and discrimination to opaque algorithmic decisions.

Through the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC), UN Women, ILO, and OECD continue to work with governments, employers, workers’ organizations, and other partners to turn commitments on equal pay into action.

At a time of economic uncertainty and widening inequality, equal pay is not only a matter of justice. It strengthens families, economies, and societies.

As the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly opens in New York, UN Women reaffirms its commitment to women’s economic empowerment as a cornerstone of our Strategic Plan 2026–2029.

Closing the gender pay gap is possible. What is needed now is action – to ensure that every woman is valued equally for work of equal value.

World Safety and Health at Work 2026; April 28th.

FORUM: ''Ensuring a healthy psychosocial working environment.'' World Safety and Health at Work 2026. More than 840,000 people die each year from health conditions linked to psychosocial risks. These work-related psychosocial risks are mainly associated with cardiovascular diseases & mental disorders, including suicide. The psychosocial working environment is defined by how work is designed, organized and managed, and the organizational practices that shape everyday working conditions. Psychosocial factors – such as workload and working time, role clarity, autonomy, support, and fair and transparent processes – strongly influence how work is experienced and affect workers’ safety, health and performance. When psychosocial factors harm workers, they become hazards which, alongside physical, chemical and biological types, must be addressed and managed to ensure safe and healthy working environments. How's work? For many workers, the answer lies not only in what they do, but in how their work is designed, organized and managed, and in the broader policies, practices and procedures that govern work. Work can offer meaning, support and a sense of purpose. But when demands are excessive, roles are unclear, support is lacking, or systems fail to protect people, psychosocial risks can harm workers' safety and health, affect organizational performance and carry wider social and economic costs. As work continues to evolve, the challenge is not only to respond to harm, but to foster healthier psychosocial working environments through preventive action. 

Let's ensure a healthy psychosocial working environment. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #safeday26, #WorldDayofSafetyandHealthatwork, #28April, #SafeWorkingEnvironment, #automation, #HealthyWorkingEnvironment, #Rightatwork, #Safeday, #psychosocialrisks, #PsychosocialHazards.

EVENTS: 

At UN GENEVA; On 27 April 27th, 2026, from 11:00-13:00 GMT / 13:00-15:00 Geneva, a panel discussion entitled ''Ensuring a healthy psychosocial working environment.'' will be held. This event brings together ILO constituents, ministers and international experts to discuss global developments and practical pathways for ensuring a healthy psychosocial working environment. Watch the event live from Geneva!

AT UN Headquarters; On Tuesday; April 28th; the global event to mark the World Safety and Health at Work 2026 will be held. Register to participate!

28 de Abril; Jornada Técnica: DÍA MUNDIAL SEGURIDAD Y SALUD EN EL TRABAJO 2026 DÍA MUNDIAL SEGURIDAD Y SALUD EN EL TRABAJO 2026. El trabajo que cambia. Nuevos desafíos psicosociales El Instituto Nacional de Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo (INSST), O.A., M.P. y la Oficina de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo (OIT) para España organizan conjuntamente la jornada técnica de conmemoración del Día Mundial de la Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo. Este año el día mundial se centra en los riesgos psicosociales que afectan a las personas trabajadoras bajo el lema “Garanticemos un entorno psicosocial saludable en el trabajo”. La jornada pretende abordar desde un enfoque técnico, jurídico y social la situación actual de los riesgos psicosociales en el ámbito laboral y los nuevos desafíos que se plantean. El evento se presenta como un foro de información y debate sobre la incidencia de las condiciones laborales en la salud mental y el bienestar de las personas trabajadoras, proponiendo espacios de reflexión sobre temas como el trabajo en plataformas, la desconexión digital o la precariedad laboral. Durante la jornada se presentarán las conclusiones del informe que realiza la OIT con motivo de la celebración del Día Mundial de la Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo y se celebrará una mesa redonda en la que participarán los agentes sociales, quienes debatirán sobre las necesidades y respuestas que plantea hoy la prevención de los riesgos psicosociales en el mundo del trabajo.

Statement from the ILO Director-General World Safety and Health at Work 2026; April 28th.

As the world of work evolves, factors like job design, management practices, and workplace culture have a direct impact on workers’ health, dignity, and well-being. With over 840,000 deaths linked annually to psychosocial risks, the call is clear: governments, employers, and workers must act together to create safer, healthier, and more just workplaces for all.


Across the world, work shapes people’s lives in profound ways.
It can provide purpose, security and opportunity.

But the way work is designed, organized and managed also affects something fundamental: workers’ safety, health and dignity.

Today, the world of work is changing rapidly. Digital technologies, new forms of employment, demographic change and climate pressures are transforming the way we work.

In this context, the psychosocial working environment has never been more important.

For workers in every sector, psychosocial factors at work can make the difference between a job that supports well-being and one that undermines it.

The consequences are significant.

Psychosocial risk factors at work are linked to more than 840,000 deaths each year worldwide, associated with cardiovascular diseases and mental disorders.

They place heavy costs on societies and economies.

Safe and healthy working environments are a fundamental principle and right at work.

But they do not happen by chance.

When work is designed with reasonable demands, adequate support, opportunities for participation and respect for dignity, it benefits everyone.

Workers are healthier and more motivated.

Enterprises become stronger and more sustainable.

Preventing psychosocial risks requires commitment and cooperation.

Governments must put in place effective policies, legal frameworks and occupational safety and health systems that support prevention.

Employers shape the daily reality of work through leadership and responsible management practices.

And workers and their representatives bring essential knowledge about how work is experienced.

On this World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the ILO calls on governments, employers and workers everywhere to strengthen their efforts to prevent psychosocial risks through social dialogue, to ensure that the design, organization and management of work creates the conditions for healthier workers, successful enterprises and societies that are closer to social justice.

This is at the heart of the ILO’s vision of decent work.

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo.

PUBLICATIONS: As part of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026, the ILO has developed campaign materials, including a global report and a PowerPoint presentation. The report adopts an organizational, prevention-focused approach and examines psychosocial factors across three levels: the job; how the work is managed and organized; and the broader policies, practices and procedures that govern work.

The report also finds that these risks account for nearly 45 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost annually, reflecting years of healthy life lost due to illness, disability, or premature death, and are estimated to result in economic losses equivalent to 1.37 per cent of global GDP each year. The report, The psychosocial working environment: Global developments and pathways for action, highlights the growing impact of how work is designed, organized, and managed on workers’ safety and health. It warns that psychosocial risk factors—including long working hours, job insecurity, high demands with low control, and workplace bullying and harassment—can create harmful working environments if not properly addressed.

What is the psychosocial working environment?

The report introduces the psychosocial working environment as the elements of work and workplace interactions related to how jobs are designed, how work is organized and managed, and the broader policies, practices and procedures that govern work. These elements, both individually and in combination, affect workers’ health and well-being, as well as organizational performance.

To better understand psychosocial risks, the report proposes three interrelated levels of the working environment:

First, the nature of the job itself, including demands, responsibilities, alignment with workers’ skills, access to resources, and the design of tasks in terms of meaning, variety, and skill use. Second, how work is organized and managed, covering role clarity, expectations, autonomy, workload, work pace, and supervision and support. Third, the broader workplace policies, practices and procedures that govern work. These include employment and working time arrangements, the management of organizational change, digital monitoring, performance and reward processes, OSH policy and management systems, procedures to prevent violence and harassment at work, and mechanisms for worker consultation and participation.

The report emphasizes that psychosocial risks arise from these elements and can be prevented through organizational approaches that address their root causes. It also highlights the importance of integrating psychosocial risk management into occupational safety and health systems, supported by social dialogue between governments, employers, and workers.

How the ILO estimated 840,000 deaths

The figure of over 840,000 deaths per year was estimated using two key sources of evidence. The first is data on the global prevalence of five major psychosocial risk factors at work: job strain (high demands combined with low control), effort–reward imbalance, job insecurity, long working hours, and workplace bullying and harassment. The second is scientific research showing how these risks increase the likelihood of serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and mental disorders, including suicide. These risk levels were then applied to the latest global mortality and health data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study to estimate the number of deaths and DALYs attributable to these risks each year. This approach allowed the ILO to quantify both the human and economic burden, including estimating productivity losses reflected in GDP costs associated with healthy life years lost. In addition, the report synthesizes a broad body of evidence showing that psychosocial risks are linked to a wide range of mental and physical health conditions among workers, including depression and anxiety, as well as metabolic diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and sleep disturbances.

Widespread exposure

While many psychosocial risks are not new, major transformations in the world of work, including digitalization, artificial intelligence, remote work, and new employment arrangements, are reshaping the psychosocial working environment. These changes may intensify existing risks or create new ones if not properly addressed. At the same time, they can offer opportunities for improved work organization and greater flexibility, highlighting the need for proactive action. “Psychosocial risks are becoming one of the most significant challenges for occupational safety and health in the modern world of work,” said Manal Azzi, Team Lead on OSH Policy and Systems at the ILO. “Improving the psychosocial working environment is essential not only for protecting workers’ mental and physical health, but also for strengthening productivity, organizational performance and sustainable economic development.” By addressing these risks proactively, the report concludes, countries and enterprises can create healthier workplaces that benefit both workers and organizations while strengthening productivity and economic resilience.

ADVOCACY MATERIALS: Get the promotional materials!

The analysis are available in :العربية, in español, en français, in italiano, in日本語,  in Português in русский in tiếng Việt in 中文 and in Nederlands.

LIVESTREAM: Watch ensuring a healthy psychosocial working environment!

International Day of Abolition of Slavery 2025; December 2nd.

 FORUM:"Modern slavery is on the rise." International Day of Abolition of Slavery 2025. Modern slavery occurs in almost every country in the world, and cuts across ethnic, cultural and religious lines. More than half (52%) of all forced labour and a quarter of all forced marriages can be found in upper-middle income or high-income countries. ILO has adopted a legally binding Protocol designed to strengthen global efforts to eliminate forced labour, which entered into force in November 2016. Ending Modern Slavery requires bold action by frontline leaders, donors, governments and a movement of collaborators. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #ModernSlavery, #forcedlabour, #EndHumanTrafficking, #2December, #SlaveryAbolitionDay.

EVENT: Celebration of the 76th anniversary of the Convention for the suppression of the Traffic in persons. The ILO’s Protocol on Forced Labour could restore hope and freedom to millions of people trapped in modern slavery. But first it must be ratified by countries around the world. We have the chance to make history. On December 2nd, the United Nations General Assembly will hold a conference to mark the International Day of Abolition of Slavery 2025.

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery 2025; December 2nd.

Slavery is a horror from the history books – and a relentless contemporary crisis.

On the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, we remember past victims, especially the more than 15 million men, women and children across Africa who were seized, shackled and sold into bondage an ocean away – or perished en route.

We recall the painful scars their enslavement left on our societies, including structural inequalities and systemic injustices that have persisted for generations.

We rally to protect the estimated 50 million people now trapped in contemporary forms of slavery around the world, many of them women and children.

And we reiterate our appeal to prevent human rights violations like forced labour and forced marriage from claiming more victims.

Contemporary forms of slavery are perpetuated by crime rings that prey on people struggling to cope with extreme poverty, discrimination or environmental degradation – and by traffickers who exploit people fleeing armed conflict or migrating in search of safety and opportunity. It robs people of their rights, and their humanity.

Governments, businesses, civil society and trade unions must unite to end this crisis once and for all. And they must provide remedy and redress, with real access to justice, fair compensation, rehabilitation, restitution, and guarantees that victims and their families will not suffer again.

2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the Slavery Convention, when the international community made a bold commitment to end slavery in all its forms. We must act with the same resolve to eradicate contemporary forms of slavery. A world built on freedom, dignity and justice for all is not only possible – it is our shared responsibility.

United Nations Secretary-General.

PUBLICATION: General observation on the application of the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105).

At its 2023 session (November–December), the Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) adopted a general observation on the application of the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105). The text of this observation is reproduced in this brochure. As part of the regular supervisory system on the application of ILO international labour standards, the CEACR is an independent body whose function is to provide an impartial and technical assessment of the application of these standards by ILO Member States. The CEACR is composed of 20 experts, eminent jurists from different geographical regions, legal systems and cultures. In addition to the comments directly addressed to Governments, the CEACR may decide to publish the so-called "general observations” on certain issues concerning the application of a Convention.


The Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105), constitutes one of the ILO fundamental conventions. Its purpose is to supplement the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), by requiring States to suppress the imposition of any form of forced or compulsory labour in five situations specified in its Article 1: • as a means of political coercion or education or as a punishment for holding or expressing political views or views ideologically opposed to the established political, social or economic system; • as a method of mobilizing, and using labour for purposes of economic development; • as a means of labour discipline; • as a punishment for having participated in strikes; and • as a means of racial, social, national or religious discrimination.

The Convention was inspired by the work of the ILO–UN Ad-Hoc Committee on Forced Labour, which was established in 1951 to conduct an impartial inquiry into the existence of systems of forced labour. The report issued by the Ad-Hoc Committee in 1953 revealed the existence of two principal systems of forced labour imposed by the State that seriously threaten human rights in contravention with the United Nations Charter. The first was the use of forced labour as a means of political coercion or punishment for holding or expressing political views. The second was the use of forced labour for important economic purposes. The negotiation and further adoption of the Convention reflected the determination of the ILO to continue and intensify its efforts to abolish such practices that were so far not explicitly covered by Convention No. 29.


More than 65 years have passed since the adoption of Convention No. 105. Nevertheless, there are still a considerable number of cases that have been examined by the Committee where compulsory labour continues to be imposed by the State in the different situations prohibited by the Convention. This is particularly the case when compulsory labour is used for economic development purposes or as a punishment for the exercise of civil and political liberties, particularly freedom of expression and assembly. Given the considerable number of situations raised by the Committee with regard to the latter, the Committee considers that it is timely and appropriate to recall the nature and scope of the prohibitions established under Article 1(a) and (d) of the Convention, as well as the Committee’s requests addressed to governments in this regard. These prohibitions refer to the use of compulsory labour as “a means of political coercion or education, or as a punishment for holding or expressing political views or views ideologically opposed to the established political, social, or economic system” (paragraph (a)); and “as a punishment for having participated in strikes” (paragraph (d)). 2 It must be noted that in these two cases, forced labour usually takes the form of compulsory labour imposed in the context of a penal sanction pronounced for acts that relate to the exercise of civil liberties, including the right to freedom of expression and the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, both of which are recognized in the ILO Declaration of Philadelphia (1944) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948). The Committee wishes to recall from the outset that the Convention does not constitute a revision of Convention No. 29 and was adopted to reinforce and complement the protection offered by Convention No. 29. At the same time, these instruments are independent of each other, so that countries which have ratified both must ensure their cumulative application. This is particularly true for the exceptions laid down in Article 2(2) of Convention No. 29, which do not automatically apply in the five specific situations covered by Convention No. 105. Accordingly, while under Convention No. 29 work exacted as a consequence of a conviction in a court of law is an exception and does not constitute forced labour, Convention No. 105 prohibits the imposition of any form of compulsory labour in the situations mentioned under its Article 1, even if the work is imposed as a result of a conviction by a court of law. The Committee also considers necessary to clarify that, in the context of Convention No. 105, compulsory labour can take place either in the form of a sanction of imprisonment involving an obligation to work (compulsory prison labour) or as a specific sanction of community, public or correctional work to which the person has not given his or her consent. In this respect, one of the main questions analysed by the Committee when assessing compliance with the Convention by the country under examination is whether any of these forms of compulsory labour is contained in the national legislation.

International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

FORUM: “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond." International Youth Day 2025. The theme places a strong emphasis on the transformative role of young people in the localization of the SDGs, translating the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into local realities. This theme recognizes that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development, but are active agents of change, innovation, and leadership. It acknowledges the need for youth inclusion in local governance processes, as their creativity, energy, and community knowledge are essential for addressing the complex and interconnected challenges of our time. Over the past decade, global institutions have increasingly acknowledged that the achievement of the SDGs by 2030 depends on how effectively they are localized—translated into concrete actions at the community level. Recent reports by UN-Habitat and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) revealed that at least 65 per cent of SDG targets relate directly to the mandates of local and regional governments (LRGs). Consequently, there is a growing imperative to empower youth as partners in SDG localization processes, as they are often deeply embedded in their communities and possess unique insights into local development needs. Localizing the SDGs refers to the process of adapting and implementing the global goals within specific local contexts, aligning them with community needs while maintaining consistency with national and international commitments. This approach is vital to ensure that development is inclusive, participatory, and sustainable. When young people are empowered to engage in this process, they become catalysts for innovation and resilience in their communities. The theme of 2025 IYD is deeply aligned with the World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY), which sets a policy framework and practical guidelines for national action and international support to improve the situation of young people. As the WPAY approaches its 30th anniversary, the 2025 IYD theme offers a timely opportunity to renew commitment to its principles, particularly those emphasizing youth agency, youth engagement in decision-making, and sustainable development. Indeed, the WPAY provides a vital framework for guiding and advancing youth contributions to development processes. By aligning SDG localization efforts with the objectives of the WPAY, countries can promote their role as key partners in sustainable development, and ensure their inclusion in designing, implementing and evaluating policies that directly affect their communities. SDG localization supports the WPAY by enabling young people to take ownership of the development agenda, turning the global goals into localized actions that reflect their unique challenges and aspirations.

Building on this foundation, 2025 IYD connects with new global commitments such as the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations, which emphasize the importance of youth in shaping a fairer, more equitable and sustainable world. The Pact calls for “meaningful youth engagement, recognizing young people as agents of change and essential partners in achieving sustainable development”. Similarly, the Declaration affirms “the duty to ensure that the interests and needs of future generations, including today’s children and youth, are reflected in public policy and decision-making at all levels”. Localizing the SDGs through youth-led efforts ground the goals of the Pact and Declaration—making them real in the places young people live and lead. The upcoming Second World Summit on Social Development (Doha, Qatar, November 2025) also presents a key opportunity to spotlight youth-led actions on social development and strengthen their role in shaping inclusive social policies. Local youth actions are not isolated activities; they are integral to broader efforts to achieve national development plans and the SDGs. By highlighting and supporting these initiatives, the international community can help bridge the gap between top-down policy frameworks and bottom-up implementation, thus ensuring that no one is left behind.

The 2025 IYD will serve as a strategic platform to: 1. Recognize youth as key local development partners: • Elevate the visibility of youth-led initiatives and their impact on SDG implementation. • Raise awareness about the WPAY and its role in recognizing the youth as local development partners. • Celebrate young people as innovators, leaders, and mobilizers within their local contexts. 2. Promote policy coherence and institutional support for local youth initiatives: • Encourage governments to integrate youth-led initiatives into local development frameworks and decision-making processes. • Promote the integration of youth development goals within local development strategies, drawing from the WPAY’s framework and the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations • Advocate for inclusive policy environments that facilitate youth participation in governance. 3. Encourage multi-stakeholder collaboration: • Foster partnerships between youth and youth-led organizations, local governments, civil society, the private sector, academia, and UN agencies. • Promote knowledge sharing and joint problem-solving to enhance the effectiveness of local SDG implementation. • Leverage technology and innovation to connect youth across regions and facilitate collaboration. 4. Showcase youth stories and solutions: • Provide platforms for youth to share their personal experiences, insights, and innovations. • Use storytelling as a tool to amplify youth voices and promote peer learning. • Document and disseminate lessons learned from youth-led localization projects.

Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #12August, #InternationalYouthDay, #Youthday, #Greenskills.

EVENTS: On August 12th at 9:00 (EST), The global observance of the International Youth Day 2025 will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, hosted in collaboration with UN-Habitat, a key partner of DESA and a leading advocate for sustainable urban development and SDG localization. The event will bring together youth leaders, policymakers, municipal officials, academics, development practitioners, and UN representatives to explore strategies for enhancing youth engagement in local development. Planned activities include: • Interactive Dialogue: The event will feature an interactive dialogue between youth and other decision-makers. Topics will cover urban planning, climate resilience, social inclusion, innovation, and digital transformation, all through a youth lens. • Youth Innovation Showcase: Youth organizations and social enterprises will have the opportunity to exhibit their work both in the community and at the UN compound. • Commemoration of 2025 IYD which will include youth, UN and government represenatives. The commemoration will be held in person on the UN compound and virtually, ensuring global participation of youth and youth partners. Knowledge products developed include: • Infographics: Visual tools that present data and analysis on the contributions of youth to SDG localization. Designed to inform policy discussions and advocate for greater youth involvement. • Youth storytelling series: A multimedia collection featuring short films, podcasts, and blog posts. These stories will reflect diverse youth experiences in implementing the SDGs at the local level. • Social media engagement package: A ready-to-use digital toolkit that includes infographics, video messages (e.g., from the UN Secretary-General or DESA’s USG), and sample content. Designed for dissemination by youth networks, Member States, and UN agencies to increase outreach and engagement. The Youth Unit Programme encourages youth around the world to organize activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country. Read the concept note and Register to participate!

On August 12th, to mark International Youth Day and as part of the Women and Youth Democratic Engagement Initiative (WYDE), the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is hosting an empowerment briefing for Young MPs to access peer-to-peer support, empowerment networks and initiatives. Despite increased acknowledgement from parliaments of the importance of youth participation in political decision-making, the number of sitting Young MPs remains unrepresentative. This webinar entitled ''Youth Political empowerment'' will showcase youth platforms, exchange country-level experiences of youth networks and identify better opportunities for youth to be heard in the political community. Register to attend!

On August 8th 2025, the UNITAR High-level panel discussion to mark the International Youth Day 2025 entitled "Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships," will highlight the vital role young people play in redefining multilateral diplomacy. This year's observance, organized in collaboration with UNITAR and AFS Intercultural Programs and the Permanent Mission of Malta to the UN, provides a dynamic platform for young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, innovators, and civil society actors to engage in meaningful conversations on how technology and partnerships can strengthen global cooperation. Open to all through public registration, the event will encourage diverse participation, ensuring that voices from various backgrounds contribute to shaping a more connected and collaborative world. In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, youth are emerging as key drivers of change, harnessing the power of technology and strategic partnerships to address pressing international challenges. By 2030, the youth population is projected to comprise 57 percent of the global demographic, underscoring the urgent need to empower young people with meaningful roles indecision-making and global governance. This demographic shift positions youth not only as beneficiaries of multilateral policies but as essential partners in shaping them. The theme for International Youth Day 2025, "Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships," highlights the vital role young people play in redefining multilateral diplomacy. By leveraging digital tools and fostering cross-sector collaborations, youth are not only amplifying their voices but also facilitating inclusive, impactful dialogue across nations, cultures, and institutions. Digital platforms empower young people to transcend national boundaries, enabling real-time collaboration on global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic disparity. Through initiatives like virtual hackathons, open-source development, and cross-border social media campaigns, youth are not only raising awareness but also co-creating innovative solutions with youth across continents. Their digital fluency allows them to participate in global dialogues previously limited to diplomats and policymakers, positioning them as active stakeholders in shaping multilateral agendas. Youth-run digital platforms are being used to mediate conflict and promote intercultural understanding in regions of unrest. By embedding technology into the fabric of multilateral cooperation, and by forming dynamic alliances across sectors, the youth are not just participants, they are architects of a more collaborative and innovative global order.

Objectives 1. Highlight and empower the role of youth as active participants and leaders in international decision-making processes. 2. Explore how digital innovation enables youth to transcend geographical boundaries and foster effective diplomatic relations. 3. Encourage collaboration between youth, governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to address global challenges. 4. Create a space where diverse perspectives are shared, promoting equity, mutual understanding, and cooperative action. 5. Motivate participants to develop initiatives and partnerships that continue beyond the event, contributing to long-term global cooperation.

Expected Outcomes 1. Enhanced understanding of how youth-led technological initiatives and partnerships can influence multilateral diplomacy. 2. New connections formed among youth, institutions, and stakeholders, fostering future joint efforts. 3. Encouragement of young participants to take active roles in diplomatic and global governance spaces. 4. Compilation of key discussion points and recommendations to be shared with relevant organizations and participants for continued engagement.

SPEAKERS ● 3:30 - 3:35 pm - Welcome: Yumna Khan, Director of the Youth Assembly and Strategic Youth Initiatives, AFS ● 3:35 - 3:40 pm - Introduction: Daniel Obst, President and CEO, AFS ● 3:40 - 3:50 - Remarks: H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (pending) ● 3:50 - 3:55 pm - Remarks: Mr. Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary General for Youth Affairs, UN Youth Office (video) ● 3:55 - 4:05 pm - Remarks: Permanent Mission of Malta to the UN ● 4:05 - 4:15 pm - Remarks: Mr. Samim Hamidy, UNITAR ● 4:15 - 4:25 pm - Mr. Eliot Minchenberg, Director, New York Office & Representative to the United Nations, UNESCO (invited) ● 4:25 - 4:30 pm - Youth Remarks: Ms. Daphne Frias, Youth Advocate, Box The Ballot, Forbes 30 under 30 ● 4:30 - 4:35 pm - Remarks: Ms. Azza Karam, Founding President and CEO of Lead Integrity ● 4:35 - 4:45 pm - Remarks: Ms. Jennie Magiera, Global Head of Education Impact at Google YOUTH PANEL SPEAKERS 4:45 - 5:55 pm ● Moderator: Ali Mustafa, AFS Intercultural Programs ● Daphne Frias, Youth Advocate, Box The Ballot, Forbes 30 under 30 ● Shah Chowdhury, Co-Founder and President, Footsteps Bangladesh ● Ilan Enverga, Youth Representative on the UNESCO SDG4 High-Level Steering Committee and Founder & CEO of Global Changemaker Schools ● Dana Al Anzy, Qatar Youth Ambassador, AFS International Board of Trustees Member ● Yugratna Shirawastwa, Co-Chair Major Group of Children and Youth. Read the Concept note and Watch the celebration of the International Youth Day 2025!



STATEMENTS:

Statement by the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

On International Youth Day, we celebrate the determination, creativity and leadership of young people everywhere.
This year's theme – Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond – reminds us that global progress begins in communities. And in every corner of the world young people are leading the way.

They are driving sustainable development, building more inclusive communities, forging peace, and demanding a fairer, greener and more just future.

Young people are bold innovators, resilient organizers, and essential partners in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

This year also marks a renewed commitment to the World Programme of Action for Youth – a recognition that when young people lead, societies thrive.

To every young person: your voice, ideas and leadership matter.

Let us work together to support youth-led solutions and build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world, from the ground up.

António Guterres,United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement from UN DESA Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

Dear friends, today on International Youth Day, we celebrate young people who are driving change in their communities and advancing sustainable development goals.

This year's the same local youth actions for the SDGs and beyond reminds us that meaningful change starts in our local communities. Over the 65% of the SDG targets are linked to the policies and services delivered by the local and regional governments. Empowering youth where they live is not just beneficial, it is essential. Young people process an intimate understanding of their community's needs and are uniquely equipped to design the solutions that resonate. By empowering young people, we unlocked a powerful and effective force for sustainable development, shifting towards a more inclusive and participatory processes, amplifying diverse voices, building trust and delivering lasting solutions.


Young people are already leading the way, tackling local challenges and demonstrating sustainable development in practice. Young people are also actively engaged in the key UN platforms to advance sustainable development.

At the annual ECOSOC youth forum, the UN's largest intergovernmental gathering with young people, leaders from around the world shared invaluable ground level experiences and shaped global policies.
At the internet governance forum, youth voices have been instrumental in promoting an open and inclusive digital space highlighting the role of a digital technology in achieving sustainable development. Young people also played a critical role at the recent conferences supported by UN DESA including the third UN ocean conference and the fourth international conference on financing for development showing their impact across a wide range of sustainable development issues.

At the UN, we are very much looking forward to having impactful contributions in the process leading up to the second world summit for social development to be held in Doha later this year.
As we mark the 30th anniversary of the world programme of the action for youth, we have a pivotal opportunity to deepen our commitment to ensuring young people are fully included as equal partners, particularly at the local level.
By championing young change makers, let us build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for all.
Happy International Youth Day.

Mr. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General, UN DESA.

OTHER STATEMENTS:

• Statement by the President of the United Nations General Assembly on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement from the ILO Director General, Gilbert F. Houngbo on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement by the UNFPA Executive-Director; Dr. Natalia Kanem’ on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement by the UN-Habitat on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement by the ITU on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

PUBLICATION: The Youth2030 Phase 2 (2025–2030) presents a comprehensive Strategic Priorities and Results Framework, charting a bold path forward to intensify impact and drive transformative change with and for young people worldwide. Launched in 2018 by the UN Secretary-General, Youth2030 — the UN Youth Strategy — is the umbrella framework guiding the UN system’s work with and for youth. Now, over six years into its implementation, acceleration is needed at all levels to meet the strategy’s goals. The report focuses on accelerating the implementation of Youth2030 at the global, regional, and national levels. Read the full Youth2030 Phase 2 (2025–2030) report!

LIVESTREAM: High-level Event organized bty the UNITAR to mark the International Youth Day 2025; The theme for International Youth Day 2025, "Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships," highlights the vital role young people play in redefining multilateral diplomacy.This year's observance, organized in collaboration with UNITAR and AFS Intercultural Programs, provides a dynamic platform for young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, innovators, and civil society actors to engage in meaningful conversations on how technology and partnerships can strengthen global cooperation. Open to all through public registration, the event will encourage diverse participation, ensuring that voices from various backgrounds contribute to shaping a more connected and collaborative world. Get the Concept note!

World Day Against Child Labour 2025; June 12th.

FORUM: "Progress is clear, but there's more to do: let’s speed up efforts!" World Day Against Child Labour 2025. This year’s theme reflects both the progress achieved and the urgency to intensify action to meet global targets. The observance will focus on a key milestone: the release of the 2025 global estimates and trends of child labour. This ILO and UNICEF joint report will provide a comprehensive overview of where we stand in our global commitments to eliminate child labour. Although the detailed data are not yet available, the estimates and trends identified will guide policy debates and calls for renewed commitment and investment. On this World Day, we will call for full ratification of ILO Convention No. 138 on the Minimum Age and the implementation of ILO Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour. Their effective ratification and implementation remain essential to achieving the goals set by the Durban Call to Action, which urges us to aim for strengthened prevention, protection, and partnerships to eliminate child labour. Now is the time to make the elimination of child labour a reality. The ILO works closely with governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, civil society, and international partners to support policies and programmes that address the root causes of child labour—strengthening social protection, education systems, and decent work opportunities for adults and youth. The World Day against Child Labour is widely supported by these actors, along with UN agencies and individuals committed to building a world free of child labour. The ILO, together with its constituents and partners have called for:

Reinvigorated international action to achieve social justice, particularly under the envisaged Global Coalition for Social Justice, with child labour elimination as one of its important elements;


Universal ratification of ILO Convention No. 138 on Minimum Age, which, together with the universal ratification of ILO Convention No. 182 on Worst Forms of Child Labour achieved in 2020, would provide all children with legal protection against all forms of child labour; and the


Effective implementation of the “Durban Call to Action” to ensure universal access to social protection and to help construct a path towards a world free of child labour, as called under SDG Target 8.7, and in SDG Target 1.3.

Why and where do children work?, How did child labor change over time?; Everyone has a role to play; Let’s speed up efforts to end child labour everywhere!

Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #WDACL, #SocialJustice, #WorldChildLabourDay; #12June, #EndChildLabour.

EVENTS: On Wednesday, June 11th from 13:30 until 14:45 (Europe/Zurich) a high-level side event will be organized by the ILO during the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference. Organized on the margins of the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference, this high-level event will mark the World Day Against Child Labour 2025 with the launch of the ILO-UNICEF joint report on the latest global estimates of child labour. The event brings together ILO constituents and partners to discuss the implications of the new global estimates and trends in child labour, and the steps needed to accelerate progress. This high-level event provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the urgent need for stronger action to meet global goals. On this World Day against Child Labour, the ILO calls for the full ratification of ILO Convention No. 138 on the Minimum Age and the implementation of ILO Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour. Their effective ratification and implementation remain essential to achieving the goals set by the Durban Call to Action, which urges strengthened prevention, protection, and partnerships to eliminate child labour.Watch the high-level event!

On Thursday, June 12th from 13:30 until 14:45 (Europe/Zurich) to observe the World Day Against Child Labour 2025, The participants will discuss the fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and celebrate the 26 years since the adoption of ILO Convention No. 182. The conference will also provides an opportunity for tripartite constituents to discuss advances and challenges in relation to the elimination of child labour with the aim to improve implementation worldwide, as well as to promote universal ratification of ILO Convention No. 138.

ACTIVITIES: Now is the time to make the elimination of child labour a reality. Check out the activities to mark the World Day taking place in your country!; Interested in training;Take a look at upcoming events, which include courses for data users and data producers.

PUBLICATIONS: Child Labour and Education: New Perspectives and Approaches.

Suggested documents to read on EMPLOYMENT -World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2024 and the World Employment and Social Outlook: May 2024 Update; On LABOUR UNDERUTILIZATION -The jobs gap: Measuring labour underutilisation beyond unemployment; On INFORMAL ECONOMY - Statistical Methodology Series 11 – Identification of informality through labour force surveys.

STATEMENTS: Message from the ILO Director-General on On World Day Against Child Labour 2025, June 12th.

LIVESTREAM: Watch the High-level event will mark the World Day Against Child Labour 2025 with the launch of the ILO-UNICEF joint report on the latest global estimates of child labour.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2025; April 28th.

FORUM: "Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The role of AI and Digitalization at work." World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2025. The theme will focus on the impacts of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) on workers' safety and health. This theme will examine various new technologies through an occupational safety and health lens, including: Advanced robots; Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning; Exoskeletons; Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); Internet of Things (IoT); Virtual and Augmented Reality.The campaign will also shed light on new work practices, such as automation of tasks, big data analysis, smart digital systems and workers management through AI. New technologies have also given rise to new types of work, such as digital platform work and remote work/hybrid work/telework, which will be further examined. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #safeday25, #WorldDayofSafetyandHealthatwork, #28April, #SafeWorkingEnvironment, #HealthyWorkingEnvironment. #Rightatwork.

EVENTS: On April 28th from 13:30 to 15:30 PM GMT, The ILO commemorative event will bring together experts and constituents to discuss the implications it has for the world of work, as well as how to practically implement this right in the world of work. Looking at how the digital transformation of work may support safe and healthy working environments and what governments, employers and workers and other stakeholders are already doing to respond to these emerging challenges. Get ready to watch the Livestream!

STATEMENTS: Statement from ILO Director-General on World Day for Safety and Health at work 2025; April 28th.

Today is the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

Every worker, every way has the right to a safe and healthy working environment.

This is a fundamental right.

And yet millions of workers around the world continue to die or injured themselves or fall sick because of work.

Too many lose their lives trying to earn a living.

We must change this.

The use of technology for good can help us to make important strides.

Artificial intelligence and digital technologies can help transform the workplace into a safer and healthier space.

Robotics, automation and AI can operate in hazardous environments and take on the most dangerous tasks like operating in extreme temperatures, handling toxic materials, or navigating disaster zones.

They can also ease physical strain, supporting caregivers in hospital, assisting with heavy lifting in construction, and reducing repetitive work in factories.

Smart sensors and digital monitoring can detect risks before accidents happen by checking air quality tracking, fatigue or alerting to unsafe movement and behaviours.

But innovation can also carry significant risks.

The rise of worker surveillance and algorithm management can threaten workers rights, dignity, and well-being.

New technologies can also introduce new risks that are not yet fully understood.

We have a responsibility, irresponsibility to and that understand safety and health risks that come with technological innovation.

We have a responsibility to ensure that technology is used for good.

That is why the digital transition must be human-centred. It must make workplace safer and healthier and more sustainable and inclusive.

On this World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

I call on governments, employers, workers and innovators to build a future of work that is not only smarter, but also safer and healthier.

ILO Diretor-General.

PUBLICATIONS: Explore the findings of research on the implementation status of various provisions of the fundamental Convention No. 155 and the Convention No. 187.

World Day of Social Justice 2025; February 20th.

FORUM: "Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future." World Day of Social Justice 2025. The observance of the day help remind us of the need to build a fairer and more equitable world and to urge all efforts to combat unemployment, social exclusion, and poverty. Strengthening a just transition for a sustainable future means making sure our move toward low-carbon economies benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable. It requires a holistic approach that weaves environmental sustainability with social justice, ensuring that workers, indigenous peoples, and marginalized communities receive the support they need—through retraining, job creation, and strong social protection measures. In other words, decarbonization and economic transformation should go hand in hand with policies that fight poverty, reduce inequality, and open up opportunities for all. At the heart of this vision is the idea of integrating “just transition” principles into both global and national policies. When these principles are built into sustainable development agendas—such as those discussed at the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2)—policymakers can create a fairer environment where the costs of change are shared equitably. For example, targeted green skills training, comprehensive social protection, and community-led economic diversification can help ensure that the decline of fossil fuel industries doesn’t lead to long-term unemployment or increased social inequality. Instead, these measures redirect investments into emerging green sectors, building a resilient workforce and a more equitable society. Ultimately, strengthening a just transition is about re-imagining our economic and environmental systems to prioritize people as much as the planet. It’s a call to shift the focus from simply decarbonizing to also redistributing opportunities and resources so that sustainable growth benefits everyone. Through collective action and inclusive policies, we can create a future where environmental integrity and social equity go hand in hand, forming the foundation of a truly sustainable global economy. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #20February, #SocialJusticeDay.

EVENTS: At UNHQ New York; On February 20th, from 01:15 PM. -02:30 PM. (EST); Conference Room 6; The 2025 World Day of Social Justice, convened by the Permanent Mission of the Kyrgyz Republic to the United Nations and the International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Division for Inclusive Social Development at the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), will focus on “Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future.” This year's event takes on special significance as the world prepares for the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2). As the global community faces unprecedented challenges from climate change, economic transitions, and social inequalities, the event will explore how inclusive policies can ensure that climate action leads to more and better jobs, reduces inequalities, and fosters sustainable development. Key topics for panel discussions include:

• The role of macroeconomic policies and trade frameworks in ensuring inclusive economic growth, climate resilience, and social justice.
• Strategies for an equitable transition to a low-carbon, job-rich economy, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, critical minerals, and green infrastructure.
• Innovative financing mechanisms to support low-income and climate-vulnerable countries in transitioning to sustainable economies.
• The importance of social protection systems, education, and skills development in preparing workers for the emerging green economy.

The event will also emphasize multi-stakeholder collaboration, leveraging the Global Coalition for Social Justice to align the efforts of governments, businesses, trade unions, and civil society. Join the conversation on 20 February 2025 to explore actionable solutions that advance social justice and build a sustainable future for all. Read the Concept Note | Flyer and Register here

On February 20th, On the occasion; The ILO will mark World Day of Social Justice 2025 with a series of five events held in major cities around the globe. The events will bring together high-level speakers from across the world of work to discuss how to put social justice at the centre of international, national and regional policy agendas. The International Labour Organization (ILO) brings together leading figures from academia, politics and the world of work with the ILO Director-General to discuss how to advance social justice in the world. The conference will be held by the International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA).

From From 05:00 - 06:00 (GMT-5), a panel discussion entitled “Achieving universal social health protection for social justice in Asia and the Pacific.” will be held. Join ILO Regional Office for Asia Pacific, Director, representatives of academics, members of the Mahidol University, Bangkok, and experts in the field of Social Protection as they discuss how to reinforce commitment to universal social health protection through inclusive policies and to strengthen knowledge-sharing for advancing social health protection. Watch the live event!

From: 07:00 to 08:00 (GMT-5), a panel discussion entitled “Social justice in the digital era: AI's impact on the labour market.’’ will be held. The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the ILO Regional office for Europe, is hosting a high-level discussion featuring ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, EESC President Oliver Röpke, Ministers of Labour from various EU member countries and partners of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, and senior representatives from EU institutions, European social partners, academia, and civil society. The event will explore how Artificial Intelligence is set to transform the world of work, focusing on opportunities to harness AI to promote decent work, foster inclusive labour markets, and advance gender equality. Watch the live event!

From 09:00 - 10:00 (GMT-5), a panel discussion entitled “Decent work in Africa: A key component of Social Justice.’’. To mark the day, the Regional Office for Africa is hosting a high-level panel discussion on how to advance social justice through decent work in Africa. The event will highlight the impact of ILO projects on improving lives and fostering greater social justice. The panel will feature representatives from the government, the ILO Regional Director for Africa, a young entrepreneur, a cultural sector representative, and a partner from the Global Coalition. Watch the live event!

From 11:00 - 12:00 (GMT-5), a panel discussion entitled “Social justice in the field of work: A new social contract for Latin America.’’. Join the ILO Regional of for Latin America and the Caribbean, the co-authors of the book Justicia Social y Trabajo: desde la perspectiva de América Latina y el Caribe, and a representative from the European Union in Peru for an insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities of advancing social justice in the region through the framework of a new social contract. Watch the live event!

From 13:30 - 14:30 (GMT-5), a panel discussion entitled “Strengthening a just transition for a sustainable future.’’ Join key representatives from the United Nations in New York, Member States, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), along with the Special Advisor on Climate Action and Just Transition (TBC) and the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology (TBC), for an engaging discussion on driving sustainable climate action through a Just Transition. The session will also highlight opportunities to build a socially inclusive and empowered low-carbon economy. Watch the live event!

Get the agenda Programme and Watch the Commemorative Event.

INITIATIVES: "Bridging Gaps and Building Alliances". A ground-breaking initiative will be launched to help intensifying collective efforts to urgently address social justice deficits and accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sustainable Development Goals and the Decent Work Agenda. In support of the Global Coalition for Social Justice.

Conferences and summits: This includes the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, the Summit of the Future, as well as preparations for the World Social Summit.

STATEMENTS: Read the Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on World Day of Social Justice 2025; February 20th and the Statement of the ILO Director General on World Day of Social 

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