International Day of the Markhor 2025; May 24th.

FORUM: “Enhancing international and regional cooperation in support of efforts to conserve the markhor.“ International Day of the Markhor 2025. The markhor (Capra falconeri) is an iconic and ecologically significant species found across the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, including Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Preserving the markhor and its natural habitat is an ecological imperative and a significant opportunity to bolster the regional economy, Let’s find the ways to foster conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism and economic growth which will benefit the ecosystem. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #24May, #Markhor, #habitat, #ecological, #InternationalDayOfTheMarkhor, #ProtectMarkhors.

EVENTS: On May 24th, from 14:00 to 17th:30 PM (EST), the United Nations Biodiversity, the CITES Secretariat, the United Nations Environment Programme, the Convention on migratory species, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the IUCN, the UNODC, the World Wildlife Fund and TRAFFIC, Trade in Wild Species will held a webinar to mark the International Day of the Markhor 2025. The markhor plays an important role in ecological balance and boosts local economies through sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives. However, the markhor is under threat from habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and climate change. Listed as 'near threatened' and safeguarded under CITES since 1992, strengthening conservation efforts is essential for its survival and the well-being of its environment. By enhancing international and regional collaboration, we can support efforts to preserve the markhor and encourage sustainable practices that benefit whole ecosystems. We invite all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, namely the UN Environment, other international and regional organizations, civil society, non-governmental organizations, individuals and other relevant stakeholders to join the celebration. Register to Participate!

International Day of the markhor 2024; May 24th.

FORUM: “Preserving the markhor and its natural habitat.“ International Day of the markhor 2024. The markhor (Capra falconeri) is an iconic and ecologically significant species found across the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, including Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Preserving the markhor and its natural habitat is an ecological imperative and a significant opportunity to bolster the regional economy, Let’s discuss about the ways to foster conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism and economic growth which will benefit the ecosystem. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #24May, #Markhor, #habitat, #ecological, #InternationalDayOfTheMarkhor, #ProtectMarkhors.

EVENTS: On March 23rd, from 14:00 to 17th:30 PM (EST), the United Nations Biodiversity, the CITES Secretariat, the United Nations Environment Programme, the Convention on migratory species, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the IUCN, the UNODC, the World Wildlife Fund and TRAFFIC, Trade in Wild Species will held a webinar to mark the first-ever International Day of the Markhor. The markhor plays an important role in ecological balance and boosts local economies through sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives. However, the markhor is under threat from habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and climate change. Listed as 'near threatened' and safeguarded under CITES since 1992, strengthening conservation efforts is essential for its survival and the well-being of its environment. By enhancing international and regional collaboration, we can support efforts to preserve the markhor and encourage sustainable practices that benefit whole ecosystems. Register to Participate!

From October 12th to 15th, 2024; Taking place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the 9th World Conference on Mountain Ungulates aims to share scientific research focused on improving management and fostering conservation efforts for mountain hooved mammals and their ecosystems. Learn more about the conference!

Vesak 2013

United Nations Secretary-General's Message for the Day of Vesak 2013

Vesak Day is a celebration for Buddhists worldwide and an opportunity for all members of the international community to benefit from their rich traditions.
This year’s observance, falling at a time of widespread strife and misery, is an occasion to examine how Buddhist teachings can inform our response to prevailing challenges.
Confronting the troubling problems facing our world is consonant with Buddhism. The Buddha himself, as a young prince, left the safety of his palace to discover the four sufferings of birth, sickness, old age and death.
While such painful realities cannot be avoided, Buddhism offers insights into how to cope with them. Its history is replete with inspiring examples of the transformative power of Buddhist philosophy.
The legendary King Ashoka, a conqueror who presided over a brutal reign in India some three centuries after the Buddha’s passing, ultimately converted to Buddhism, renounced violence and embraced peace.
The values that King Ashoka espoused, including human rights, democratic governance and respect for the dignity of life, are common to all great religions. The fact that he was able to embrace them after years of brutal war offers proof that the goodwill of individuals can end widespread suffering.
Now more than ever, we need the spirit of non-violence to help inspire peace and quell conflict.
I offer my best wishes to believers celebrating Vesak Day, and my sincerest hopes that we may all draw on spiritual ideals to strengthen our resolve to improve our world.