International Day of Peace 2023; September 21st.

 FORUM: “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the Global Goals.” International Day of Peace 2023. This year’s theme is a call to action to recognize our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace. Fostering peace contributes to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will create a culture of peace for all. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #Peaceday, #sustainingpeace, #InternationalDayofPeace, #21September.

EVENTS: Peace Bell Ceremony on the Occasion of the 42nd Anniversary of the International Day of Peace at United Nations Headquarters. The programme will begin with the traditional Peace Bell Ceremony in the Peace Garden at 9:00 a.m. EDT. At that event, the U.N. Secretary-General and the General Assembly President will ring the Peace Bell. 

The International Day of Peace Youth Event 2023 's theme, "Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the Global Goals," underscores the imperative for both individual and collective responsibility in urgently nurturing peace.

A youth choir from Brooklyn, New York, sings at the event.

STATEMENTS: Watch the statement of the U.N. Secretary-General Message for the International Day of Peace 2023; September 21th.

In his message for the International Day of Peace on September 21, 2023, the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the crises facing both people and the planet, including conflicts leading to significant displacements, severe natural disasters like fires and floods, rising temperatures, and persisting issues related to poverty, inequality, and injustice. Additionally, he noted the presence of mistrust, division, and prejudice in contemporary society. The Secretary-General emphasized the core theme of this year's International Day of Peace, stressing that peace is not a passive state but a consequence of deliberate actions. He called for proactive measures to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring inclusivity and equity. Moreover, he advocated for action to combat the ongoing environmental crisis, safeguard natural resources, and protect human rights and dignity, especially as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights celebrated its 75th anniversary. The Secretary-General highlighted the importance of diplomacy, dialogue, and collaboration in diffusing tensions and resolving conflicts, issuing a compelling call for global commitment to actively promote and maintain peace for the benefit of all humanity.

GET INVOLVED: Act for our common future.

Embrace the possible. That’s the call of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, a blueprint for a better world. We don’t have to wait for the future we want—we can create it right now. Everyone can join the global movement for change. ActNow is the United Nations campaign to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals.

International Equal Pay Day 2023; September 18th.

FORUM: “Equal pay for work of equal value.” International Equal Pay Day 2023. 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.


Opening statement of UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous to the second regular session of the Executive Board, held in UN Headquarters, 12 September 2023.

EVENTS: You are invited attend a High-Level Pledging Event to mark International Equal Pay Day 2023 on Monday, September 18th from 6 to 8:30pm EDT at the w. Westin New York Grand Central. The event entitled :“Standing up for equal pay – celebrating achievements and understanding challenges,”, aims to give countries an opportunity to make new equal pay pledges. It is 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).

WEBINARS: A OECD EMnet-EPIC Webinar entitled ‘‘How companies can move the needle through the equal pay international coalition.” was held on Monday, September 11th, from 15:00 – 16:00 CEST | 9:00 – 10:00 EDT; This online event will feature discussions on the collaborative efforts led by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), UN Women, and the OECD to champion the principle of achieving equal pay for women and men worldwide, along with the pivotal role of the private sector in committing to this target .Register to participate.

World Patient Safety Day 2023; September 17th.

FORUM: "Engaging patients for patient safety.'' World Patient Safety Day 2023. The theme this year focus on the recognition of the crucial role patients, families and caregivers in the safety of health care. Evidence shows that when patients are treated as partners in their care, significant gains are made in safety, patient satisfaction and health outcomes. By becoming active members of the health care team, patients can contribute to the safety of their care and that of the health care system as a whole. Patient and family engagement was embedded in the Resolution WHA72.6 – “Global action on patient safety” and the Global Patient Safety Action Plan 2021-2030 as main strategies for moving towards eliminating avoidable harm in health care. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #17September, #worldpatientSafetyDay, #PatientSafety, #HealthForAll, #Engagingpatients.

EVENTS: On and around September 17th, 2023, to mark World Patient Safety Day 2023, the WHO will organize a wide range of activities and will host a global virtual event. Celebrations will include lighting up of Geneva’s Jet d’Eau in orange colour. Member States and partners are invited to participate in the global campaign by pledging to implement the WHO Global Patient Safety Challenge: Medication Without Harm, organizing activities, holding events and lighting up iconic monuments in orange in support of medication safety. Through the slogan “Elevate the voice of patients!”, WHO calls on all stakeholders to take necessary action to ensure that patients are involved in policy formulation, are represented in governance structures, are engaged in co-designing safety strategies, and are active partners in their own care. This can only be achieved by providing platforms and opportunities for diverse patients, families, and communities to raise their voice, concerns, expectations and preferences to advance safety, patient centeredness, trustworthiness, and equity.

An estimated one in every 10 patients experience harm in health care facilities, and each year, there are more than three million deaths globally due to unsafe health care. Most of the patient harm is preventable, with patient and family engagement being one of the most important strategies for reducing harm.

Objectives of World Patient Safety Day 2023

1. Raise global awareness of the need for active engagement of patients and their families and caregivers in all settings and at all levels of health care to improve patient safety.
2. Engage policy-makers, health care leaders, health and care workers, patients’ organizations, civil society and other stakeholders in efforts to engage patients and families in the policies and practices for safe health care.
3. Empower patients and families to be actively involved in their own health care and in the improvement of safety of health care.
4. Advocate urgent action on patient and family engagement, aligned with the Global Patient Safety Action Plan 2021–2030, to be taken by all partners.

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2023; September 16th.

FORUM: "Montreal Protocol: fixing the ozone layer and reducing climate change". International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2023.

This year World Ozone Day is held under the theme Montreal Protocol: fixing the ozone layer and reducing climate change. Today, we celebrate the achievements of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. This year’s theme highlights and reiterates the positive impact of the Montreal Protocol on ozone layer recovery and reducing climate change. Especially emphasizing the Kigali Amendment, which through the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and improved efficiency in the cooling sector, will provide additional climate mitigation benefits. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #16September, #WorldOzoneDay, #MontrealProtocol, #KigaliAmendment, #Ozonelayer, #climatechange.

Statement from the United Nations Secretary-General on International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2023; September 16th.

The international treaties to protect the ozone layer have made a dramatic and measurable difference to protecting people and planet. They show the power of multilateralism. And they should inspire hope that, together, we can avert the worst of climate change and build a sustainable and resilient world.

Limiting the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius is still possible if we immediately and drastically accelerate climate action. I have proposed a Climate Solidarity Pact and an Acceleration Agenda to help achieve this. I urge all leaders to work together to put them into effect – and to support these efforts by getting behind the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and limiting planet-heating hydrofluorocarbons.

Fully ratifying and implementing the Kigali Amendment could avoid up to 0.5°C of warming by 2100. Combining the transition away from planet-heating gases with energy efficiency measures in cooling equipment could double this figure.

I call on all countries to ratify the Amendment. And I urge governments, along with business leaders, civil society, academia, youth groups, local communities, and others, to intensify efforts to bring about real change, and to ensure developing countries have the support they need to do so.

Let’s harness the spirit of the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol to build a world where humans, nature and the planet thrive together.

United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement by the United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director for World Ozone Day 2023.

EVENTS: Joins a group of speakers on September 16th to mark the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2023 and to talk about the 'Implementation of HFC phase down as per Kigali Amendment'. Register to participate to the webinar!

Activities by Parties/Countries

• Lebanon: Video
• Poland: World Ozone Day Pullout 1 | World Ozone Day Pullout 2 | World Ozone Day Pullout 3 | World Ozone Day Pullout 4
• Spain: Poster | Video | The UN Secretary-General´s message (Spanish)

CAMPAIGN MATERIALS

The UNEP Ozone Secretariat has prepared a social media package in six languages, including cards, videos, and suggested messages, available on this Trello board.

International Day of Democracy 2023; September 15th.

FORUM: "Empowering the next generation." International Day of Democracy 2023.

This year’s theme will focus on young people’s essential role in advancing democracy and ensuring that their voices are included in the decisions that have a profound impact on their world.

Young people are the current and future custodians of democracy

An engaged, well-educated electorate is at the heart of strong democratic societies. Creating an environment in which young people feel their voice counts is crucial. Young people must navigate a world in which democracies are under threat from factors ranging from the proliferation of online mis- and disinformation, to rising populism, and the destabilizing effects of the climate crisis. It is important everyone is able to meaningfully participate in the decisions that affect their lives now, and in years to come.

Climate justice and democracy

The effects of the climate crisis on the physical environment are today impossible to ignore, and it is becoming increasingly apparent that it is a challenge to democracy: growing food insecurity, migration, water scarcity, and extreme weather events are driving conflict and weighing on the minds of voters. Young people around the world have shown that they are extremely concerned about the climate crisis; in recent years hundreds of thousands of school age children, frustrated by the pace of negotiations to cut fossil fuel emissions, have taken part in large-scale marches, strikes, and protests. Calls for climate justice have also been a feature of these demonstrations: young people realize that they are likely to suffer the consequences of an increasingly unstable climate, caused by the activities of earlier generations. The United Nations recognizes the importance of empowering young people to take leadership roles on issues of international importance; the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth convenes the Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals, a group of 17 changemakers whose leadership is catalyzing the achievement of the SDGs, and the Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change ensures that the Secretary-General hears directly from young climate activists, who can share strategies for advancing climate action. The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) finances projects that empower civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes, including youth.

Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #InternationalDayofDemocracy, #15September, #DemocracyDay. 

Statement from the United Nations Secretary General on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy 2023; September 15th.

Democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights are bedrocks of resilient, inclusive, and peaceful societies.

They underwrite freedom, advance sustainable development, and protect the dignity and rights of every person.

On the International Day of Democracy, we celebrate its promise to societies – and recognize the many threats it faces at this time of tension and turmoil.

The walls are closing in on civic spaces.

Mis- and disinformation is poisoning public discourse, polarizing communities, and eroding trust in institutions.

This year’s theme – “Empowering the Next Generation” – focuses on the essential role of children and young people in safeguarding democracy today and in the future.

It is not enough to listen to children and young people.

We must support them with massive investments in education, skills-building, and lifelong learning.

We must protect human rights and advance gender equality.

And we must expand the meaningful participation of young people in decision-making processes at every level.

On this important day, let us join hands across generations and work as one to build a more just world for all.

António Guterres.

 EVENTS
Empowering the next generation: Democracy for climate justice.

15 September 14:00-15:00 EST
SDG Pavilion, North Lawn UNHQ, New York

Watch the event live or on demand

The event, organized by the UN Democracy Fund within the UN Office for Partnerships, brings together civil society representatives, UN officials, and climate activists, to highlights the role of youth in advancing civic space and recognizes their leadership in moving climate action forward.

IDEA: Inclusive Democracy for Sustainable Development.

15 September 10:00-13:00 EST
Conference room 3, UNHQ, New YorkREGISTER

This event, organized by the intergovernmental organization International IDEA in partnership with the Global Democracy Coalition and the Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations, will seek to deepen the understanding between inclusive democracy, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the forthcoming SDG Summit.

A special event marking the International Day of Democracy.

SDG Pavilion - Empowering the next generation: Democracy for climate justice.

SDG Pavilion full programme - SDGs at Halftime.

United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation 2023; September 12th.

FORUM: "Solidarity, Equity and Partnership: Unlocking South-South Cooperation to Achieve the SDGs." United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation 2023.

This year’s United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation will fall one week prior to the SDG Summit, and will be an opportunity to raise awareness and accelerate practical actions as we arrive at this halfway point to 2030. The commemoration – organized by the UNOSSC, together with the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations – will be an opportunity to highlight needs emerging from various regions as well as to present transformational initiatives toward achieving the most acute priorities of the 2023 Agenda by Member States, the United Nations System, private sector, and civil society. During the 21st session of the High-level Committee on South-South Cooperation, the United Nations Member States recognized the development impacts of robust catalytic collaborations among the countries of the Global South in the areas of trade, investment, regional integration, and digitalization among others. Several reports issued prior to this High-level Committee session illustrated how Southern countries are strengthening institutional capacities while intensifying experience sharing and exchange of good practices toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, recent global discussions – including the 2023 Development Cooperation Forum and HighLevel Political Forum – have recognized the urgent need to leverage South-South cooperation as a means to address the challenges the world is facing in an sustainable and equitable manner. By harnessing the power of shared experiences, knowledge, and resources, countries can enhance their capacity to address climate change, ensure equitable development, and secure a sustainable future for all. Through leveraging South-South and triangular cooperation – as envisioned in the outcome of the Second High-level United Nations Conference on South-South Cooperation (BAPA+40) – there is an opportunity to address both immediate and long-term needs together, supporting countries to get back on track towards achieving the SDGs. This year’s ‘ 2023 Report of the Secretary-General on Progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals’reminds us that it will take exceptional efforts and commitments to deliver a “rescue plan for people and planet.” The task ahead is daunting, but still possible. Unlocking the potential of South-South cooperation offers hope for concerted action and results. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #12September, #SouthSouthCooperation, #SDGs.

Statement by th eUnited Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation 2023, September 12th.

In our world of deeply connected challenges, South-South cooperation plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future. The United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation is a powerful reminder that when nations unite, they can overcome obstacles and accelerate sustainable development.

From climate action to poverty eradication, from health care to education, from trade to digitalization, solidarity and strong partnerships between developing countries can pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable world.

Only together can we build a world of shared prosperity, where cooperation knows no borders. Through South-South cooperation, countries of the global South can share knowledge, skills, expertise and resources, coordinate their efforts and benefit from economies of scale. Together, they can multiply their sustainable development efforts to mitigate climate disruption, find solutions to a global health crisis, manage supply chain disruptions and deliver humanitarian assistance.

South-South and triangular cooperation are important, high-value complements to cooperation with developed countries. But they do not replace or reduce the responsibilities and commitments of the global North. Developed economies have a duty to work constructively with economies in the global South, to reduce inequality and build bridges to a sustainable future for all.

As we mark the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation, let us recognize this form of collaboration as an essential catalyst for change, embodying solidarity, innovation and mutual support.

António Guterres.

EVENTS: Celebration of the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation 2023.

A High-level Panel Discussion will be hold on September 12th 2023, from 3 pm to 4:30 pm in the ECOSOC Chamber at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

World Suicide Prevention Day 2023; September 10th.

FORUM: "Creating hope through action." World Suicide Prevention Day 2023.

The theme of WSPD 2023, “Creating hope through action,” reflects the need for collective, action to address this urgent public health issue. All of us- family members, friends, co-workers, community members, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals, political officials, and governments- can take action to prevent suicide in the Region. The overall goal of this day is to raise awareness about suicide prevention worldwide. Objectives include promoting stakeholder collaboration and self-empowerment to address self-harm and suicide through preventative action. These can be achieved through capacity building of healthcare providers and other relevant actors, positive and informative messaging aimed at the general population and at-risk groups such as young people, and facilitating an open discussion on mental health at home, at school, in the workplace, etc. Those contemplating or affected by suicide are also encouraged to share their stories and seek professional help.

EVENTS: World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) 2023 is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The event represents a global commitment to focus attention on suicide prevention. Join us on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (EDT) for our live regional event, United to make suicide prevention a priority. The live conversation aims to give a platform to two different experiences from Barbados and Chile with live audiences in each country and we want you to be part of it by joining online. The event will focus on the role of media in appropriate suicide reporting as an evidence-based strategy to reduce suicide in the Region without losing the focus on the theme “Creating Hope through Action”.

STATEMENTS: Remarks by WHO/PAHO Director General on World Suicide Prevention Day 2023

Under the theme of #CreatingHopeThroughAction, we continue to strive to encourage understanding and compassion by reaching out a helping hand and listening. IASP President, Professor Rory O'Connor address for World Suicide Prevention Day 2023.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED!

By encouraging understanding, reaching in and sharing experiences, we want to give people the confidence to take action. To prevent suicide requires us to become a beacon of light to those in pain. You can be the light.

CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: Get the communication materials!
WSPD Film & the World Suicide Prevention Day Campaign Pack

International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2023, September 9th.

FORUM: "Ensure that schools are havens of safety and learning for every child, no matter where they live." International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2023. 

Attacks on education can have serious, long-term physical and psychological repercussions for students and teachers. Attacks can suspend teaching and learning, lead to a significant increase in dropout rates and prevent students from accessing their right to quality education.We must build on the international consensus on child protection and rally behind the instruments that have already been agreed upon widely as well as the respect of international law. Over 14,500 reports of attacks on education or military use of educational facilities were recorded worldwide between 2017 and 2022, according to the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA). More than 28,000 students, teachers, and academics were injured, killed, or harmed in such attacks carried out in situations of armed conflict or insecurity. The International Day to Protect Education from Attack on 9 September is an occasion to raise awareness about the pressing issue of attacks on schools, students, education personnel and teachers worldwide. It serves as a reminder that children and youth continue to face conflict, violence and disruption to their education, undermining their right to learn and thrive in a peaceful and nurturing environment. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #9september, #AttacksonEducation, #ProtectEducationfromattack.

EVENTS: The United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the UNHCR, the OHCHR, the Special Rapporteur on the right to education, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (SRSG), the United Nations Peackeeping will held a webinar on September 9th to mark the International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2023.

A week-long commemoration

This year's main High-Level Observance of the fourth International Day is co-organized by UNESCO, the State of Qatar, Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, UNICEF, and the United Nations Department of Global Communications, will take place on 13 September 2023, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This event is part of a week-long commemoration dedicated to galvanizing action to safeguard education, focusing on the theme of "Justice for Victims".

The event will gather global leaders, stakeholders, teachers and victims of attacks on education. Together, they will call for the protection of education and "Justice for Victims", centering discussions around accountability for attacks on education. 

Throughout the week, UNESCO will join partners in the commemoration of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack with different events all contributing to the theme of "Justice for Victims" and amplifying youth voices.

On 11 September 2023, in parallel with the 54th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Geneva will host a high-level commemoration at the Palais des Nations. The event will delve into actionable steps to prevent and mitigate the devastating impact of attacks on education. A key focus will be the endorsement and implementation of the Safe Schools Declaration, an international political commitment aimed at protecting education in conflict situations.

In Doha, on 13 September 2023, a panel discussion co-organized by Qatar, EAA, UNESCO and UNICEF will explore strategies to amplify the voices of youth in the Protecting Education from Attack agenda. Discourse in Doha will also focus on justice mechanisms for survivors of attacks on education and the reintegration of children formerly associated with armed forces or armed groups.

Following the High-Level Observance in New York, on 14 September 2023, United Nations Peacebuilding Commission will organize a special event focusing on education’s role in building peace within the framework of the ongoing revision of UNESCO’s 1974 recommendation concerning education for international understanding, co-operation and peace and education relating to human rights and fundamental freedoms



Statement from the United NationsSecretary General for International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2023, September 9th.

Education is not only a fundamental human right, but a pathway to a better future for every person, and a more peaceful, understanding world.

On the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, we shine a light on a startling truth: 224 million children and young people are in urgent need of educational support — including 72 million who are out-of-school altogether — because of crises like armed conflict.

Attacks on students, teachers, educational personnel and schools are becoming all-too-common, cruelly disrupting young learners’ education and inflicting untold psychological and physical damage that can last a lifetime.

I call on all countries to ensure the protection of schools, children and teachers at all times.

I also urge all countries to endorse the Safe Schools Declaration, support the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack, and join the Global Initiative: Partnership for Transformative Actions in Crisis Situations that brings together partners to ensure children and young people can keep learning in times of crisis.

Together, we can ensure that schools are havens of safety and learning for every child, no matter where they live.

António Guterres.

PUBLICATIONS:

What can be done to better protect women and girls from attack on education and millitary use of educational institution?

Policy on Child Protectionin United Nations Peace Operations.

UNESCO’s commitment to protecting education from attack


UNESCO plays a crucial role in advocating for the protection of education from attack and works to address the challenges associated with attacks on education worldwide.

At the global level, UNESCO joins partners to gather and disseminate data and information about attacks on education, notably through the Track Attacks on Education (TRACE) Data Portal. UNESCO also advocates the protection of education at the policy level, working closely with governments and other stakeholders to develop and implement policies and frameworks that safeguard schools, students, and educators.

UNESCO is also working on the ground in response to emergencies and protracted crisis. In Ukraine, since 24 February 2022, approximately 10% of all education institutions - a total of 3,758 - have been damaged or destroyed. Working closely with the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, UNESCO is contributing to the creation of a safe and inclusive learning environment by enhancing educational infrastructures and strengthening capacity to deliver Mental Health and Psychosocial Support. In South Sudan, afflicted by civil conflict and communal violence, UNESCO is leveraging youth actions to reduce violence, enhance social cohesion and foster peace. Young people are provided with the chance to acquire emotional self-regulation skills, together with literacy, livelihoods, and vocational training to participate in social and economic activities as well as the decision-making process in their communities.

International Literacy Day 2023; September 8th.

FORUM: ''Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies.'' International Literacy Day 2023.

EVENTS: UNESCO will celebrate International Literacy Day (ILD) on 8 September 2023 under the theme ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’.

Main expected outcomes of ILD2023 • Raise awareness of the literacy promotion as the ‘two-way process’, through which the ‘literacy and numeracy learning’ and ‘advancement in different areas of development and peace’ are mutually reinforced as integral part of lifelong learning. • Relevant knowledge, experiences, and solutions identified and shared for unleashing the transformative power of literacy at the system, programme, content and practice levels, towards more sustainable and peaceful societies. • Cooperation and partnerships fostered for promoting literacy. Format The global conference will take place in a hybrid format. The in-person participation is by invitation only. The global conference, however, can be attended via a virtual platform (Link to be provided later). Working languages The working languages of the global conference are English, French, and Spanish.

This year marks the mid-point towards the 2030 Global Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to which the international community committed eight years ago. By resolving to achieve this agenda, countries and partners envisioned a future world that is peaceful, just, inclusive, and free from poverty, hunger, and inequalities. As highlighted in the recent report by the UN Secretary-General, however, ‘the SDGs are in deep trouble’. Despite the progress in many areas, ‘a preliminary assessment of the roughly 140 targets with data show only about 12 per cent are on track; close to half, though showing progress, are moderately or severely off track and some 30 per cent have either seen no movement or regressed below the 2015 baseline’. The repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic along with other challenges such as climate change, digitalization, widening inequalities, polarization of societies and conflicts, are increasingly felt in different spheres of human life and the planet.

The SDG4 on education and lifelong learning is not an exception. It confronts persistent and interrelated challenges related to equity, inclusion, and equality, as well as the quality and relevance . In 2020, at least one out of seven youth and adults aged 15 years and over worldwide (763 million) lacked basic literacy and numeracy skills . In addition, a significant number of children, including those who are enrolled in school, are not acquiring basic literacy and numeracy skills, while 244 million children and young people between the ages of 6 and 18 are not enrolled in school. The COVID-19 crisis, along with other global challenges, has exacerbated the educational and literacy challenges faced by millions of children, young people and adults, predominantly those who were already marginalized before the pandemic. In low- and middle-income countries, the estimated proportion of ten-year old children who cannot read a simple text has risen from about 57 per cent in 2019 to 70 per cent in 2022. Global learning losses from the COVID-19 crisis could cost this generation of students close to US$21 trillion in lifetime earnings. 

Fulfilling the commitment to the SDG4, including the SDG target 4.6 on youth and adult literacy and numeracy, and shaping a greener, better, and safer future requires not only intensified efforts but also radical changes in our thinking, approaches, and action. In its 2021 report entitled ‘Reimagining ourfutures: A new social contract for education‘, the UNESCO’s International Commission on the Futures of Education addressed the necessity to transform education to shape a peaceful, just, and sustainable futures. While the Seventh International Conference on Adult Education (Marrakech, 15-17 June 2022) shed light on the importance of a lifelong learning perspective, the Transforming Education Summit(TES) convened by the United Nations Secretary-General (New York, 16-19 September 2022) generated a global movement with more than 130 countries and partners committing to transforming education towards the Summit of the Future (New York, 22-23 September 2024) and beyond.

Thematic focus of International Literacy Day 2023 

Literacy is central to equipping individuals with the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies, transforming education, and shaping more sustainable and peaceful societies. At this critical juncture of the SDG journey, therefore, International Literacy Day 2023 (ILD2023) will focus on ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’. Locating literacy in the entire SDG spectrum centered around the five pillars of sustainable development, namely ‘People (social development)’, ‘Planet (environmental protection)’, ‘Prosperity (economic prosperity)’, as well as ‘Peace’, and ‘Partnership’, it will provide an opportunity for reinforcing and adjusting our paths, embracing the reciprocal relations between development in ‘literacy and numeracy’ and ‘different areas of sustainable development and peace’. Literacy, on the one hand, empowers people and improves their self-esteem, creativity, and critical thinking. It enables them to acquire knowledge, skills, attitude, and values required to thrive in our rapidly changing society and economy. As such, literacy contributes not only to generating personal benefits, such as better well-being and economic conditions, but also social, economic, political, cultural, and environmental ones. 

Evidence shows, for instance, that literacy programmes help enhance democratic values, peaceful coexistence, and community solidarity. By empowering people, especially through a critical and emancipatory approach, literacy can help them ‘to engage and assume active role both locally and globally to face and resolve global challenges’ and to become an agent for transformation for more sustainable and peaceful societies. On the other hand, progress in other areas of development, such as health, agriculture, water, energy, transport, and peace, can improve the conditions and environments in which people live, work, and learn. More reading materials, libraries, and learning opportunities in multiple forms that become available due to socio-economic development can help literacy learning. At the same time, new environments generated by such development, including increased employment opportunities, could generate people’s demands for acquiring, applying, and advancing literacy and numeracy skills’. In looking at these reciprocal relations, ILD2023 will also note that not all new developments create necessarily the favorable conditions for fulfilling everyone’s right to education, of which literacy is a part. For instance, the advancement of digital technology can be a double-edged sword. While its potential for expanding teaching and learning has been demonstrated most recently during the COVID19 crisis, multiple issues have been pointed out, including the digital divide that has disproportionately affected marginalized people in terms of access to the quality learning and their misrepresentation within AI-driven learning. New services devised for convenience, such as voice recognition, automatic dictation and interpretation services may disincentivize people to make efforts to be literate.

Exploring human-centered solutions at system, programme, content and practice levels. Promoting the mutually-benefitting ‘two-way process’ of development in ‘literacy and numeracy’ and ‘different areas of development and peace’, calls for lifelong learning and intersectoral approaches, underpinned by the notion of literacy as a continuum of proficiency that alters throughout life. Also required is attention to evolving contexts. In addition to basic literacy and numeracy skills, higher-level skills as well as skills for communication, using digital text, are increasing. ILD2023 will explore how the ‘lifelong literacy and numeracy’ approaches can be translated into concrete solutions and actions at the system, programme, and practice levels. In doing so, it will pay attention to the learning content that connects literacy with acquisition of other knowledge, skills, attitudes, values and competencies. It will also reflect on the appropriate governance and partnerships based on whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches through democratic conversations and interactions, across and within education authorities at different levels, different ministries, development partners, disciplines, and people from diverse background and age groups. More broadly, there is a need for fostering a culture of lifelong learning, which facilitates intensified interactions between individuals, communities and social institutions. 

In doing so, ILD2023 will remind the centrality of people - their needs, aspirations, and capabilities, as well as the conditions and environments in which they live - to making all action meaningful. It is demand-driven, human-centered policies, programmes, and practices that can harness the transformative power of literacy. 

Celebrations of International Literacy Day 2023.

Objectives and formats International Literacy Day 2023 will be celebrated on September 8 worldwide to acknowledge advancements in literacy and foster a more literate society. The day will bring together policymakers, practitioners, development partners, youth, and individuals. At the global level, a Conference on ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’ will be held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France on 8 September, immediately after the Digital Learning Week (Paris, 4-7 September 2023) and prior to International Day to Protect Education from Attack (9 September 2023). The Global Conference will also feature the Award Ceremony of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes. Additionally, the ILD2023 webpage will showcase a number of events planned at the country level, while virtual celebrations will take place in other formats, including social media. 

To Participate Register to attend the event.

Celebrations around the world.

CAMPAIGN: On International Literacy Day 2023, join the #ImALifelongLearner campaign and share your literacy learning story. Literacy is an integral part of the right to education and the foundation of lifelong learning as well as a driver for sustainable development. The campaign serves as a reminder that the right to education is a right to lifelong learning that knows no age limits. Join the #ImALifelongLearner campaign!

International Day of Clean Air for blue skies 2023; September 7th.

FORUM: "Together for Clean Air." International Day of Clean Air for blue skies 2023.

The theme "Together for Clean Air" will highlight the urgent need for stronger partnerships, increased investment, and share responsibility for overcoming air pollution. Air pollution, indoors and outdoors, directly impacts human and ecosystem health. We all share and breathe the same air; thus, we all have a responsibility to protect our atmosphere and ensure healthy air for everyone. According to WHO, almost everyone (99 % of the global population) breathes polluted air. The transboundary nature of air pollution calls for local, national, regional, and global partnerships to tackle the problem. This year’s theme highlights that it is time to invest, work together, and contribute to clean air. Collaboration with UN member states, development organizations, international and regional organizations, the private sector, and civil society is crucial to reducing pollution and improving air quality. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #7september; #WorldCleanAirDay, #TogetherForCleanAir.


STATEMENTS

Statement by the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ on the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 2023; September 7th.

Air pollution is a global emergency. Ninety-nine per cent of humanity breathes air laced with soot, sulphur and other toxic chemicals, with low- and middle-income countries suffering the highest exposures. Every year, 7 million people die prematurely as a result, and air pollution is intimately linked to global heating.

Air pollution knows no borders, travelling thousands of kilometres, spreading contaminates with the wind. And the climate crisis is having devastating and growing impacts on every continent on Earth.

Global problems require global solutions. We must act together for clean air — the theme of this year’s International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.

Together, we must accelerate a just and equitable transition away from fossil fuels, particularly coal, towards clean renewable energy, while ensuring that no one is left behind.

To help achieve this, I have proposed a Climate Solidarity Pact in which all big emitters make extra efforts to cut emissions, and wealthier countries mobilize financial and technical resources to support emerging economies to do so. And I have proposed an Acceleration Agenda to super-charge these efforts. I urge all countries to put both into effect.

We must also support the transition to clean cooking and electric vehicles. We must encourage walking and cycling in cities and put in place systems to make responsible waste management second nature. And we must act on the pledge to reduce methane emissions.

Our air is a common good and a common responsibility. Let’s work together to clean it up, protect our health and leave a healthy planet for generations to come.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.

Statement from the UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen on International Day of Clean Air for blue skies 2023; September 7th.

EVENTS: International Day of Clean Air for blue skies 2023

Join the WHO Air Quality, Energy and Health Unit for a groundbreaking webinar “New opportunities for air pollution and health education: launching an OpenWHO online course for health workers” to be held on 5 September 2023 at 1-2:15pm (CEST).

In a landmark collaboration with over 30 international experts, WHO has developed the first WHO Air Pollution and Health Training toolkit specifically tailored for health workers (APHT) to be unveiled at the end of 2023. The toolkit includes downloadable and interactive training resources to inform and empower health care professionals. In anticipation of the toolkit’s launch, a readily accessible OpenWHO online training will be released at the margins of the 2023 UN International Day of Clean Air for blue skies.

The webinar aims to:

• Launch the OpenWHO course on air pollution and health: an introduction for health workers.
• Showcase key initiatives aimed at raising awareness and equipping health professionals to tackle air pollution and protect public health.
• Preview the upcoming Air Pollution and Health Training toolkit targeting health workers (APHT).

Click here to access the background document
This webinar session will be recorded. Register here for the webinar

Agenda

Opening and welcoming remarks
- Dr Maria Neira, Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO (video message)
- Ms Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, The Ella Roberta Foundation
Launch of the OpenWHO course “Air pollution and health: an introduction for health workers”
- Dr Samantha Pegoraro, Technical Officer, Air Quality and Health Unit, WHO

Panel discussion: What challenges and opportunities for air pollution education of the health workforce?
Key examples from:

• The Community Household Air Pollution Prevention Programme (CHAP-PP): strengthening Community Health Workers’ education in Kenya
• Air pollution data in children’s clinical records: a GOSH experience in London
• Using air pollution low-cost sensors to educate Community Health Workers in Brazil
• Clean air advocacy actions and education among medical students and secondary school children in Cameroon

Facilitator: Dr Mohamed Eissa, Liaison Officer for Public Health, International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA)

Discussants:

- Mr Daniel Pope, Co-Director CLEAN-Air(Africa) & Professor, University of Liverpool
- Dr Mark Hayden, Greet Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), London, the United Kingdom
- Dr Enrique Falceto de Barros, World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA), Brazil
- Mr Elvis Ndikum Achiri, Co-Founder and President at Global Youth Strategy (GYS) on Air Pollution and Climate Health, Cameroon

What’s next: the WHO Air Pollution and Health Training toolkit for health workers (APTH)

- Dr Sophie Gumy, Technical Officer, Air Quality and Health Unit, WHO

- Dr Carl Osei, Ghana Health Service, Ministry of Health, Ghana

Closing remarks
Dr Heather Adair-Rohani, Unit Head a.i., Air Quality and Health Unit, WHO

CAMPAIGN: Everyone has a part to play in cleaning our air and protecting our health, and everyone can benefit from it: a safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, including clean air, is integral to the full enjoyment of a wide range of human rights.