International Day of Women and Girls in Science (11 February 2026)
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed every year on 11 February, recognizes the critical role that women and girls play in science, technology, innovation, and sustainable development. Declared by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/70/212, this day highlights the urgent need to ensure equal access and participation for women and girls in scientific fields worldwide.
As UN Secretary-General AntĂłnio Guterres emphasized, âWe need to encourage and support girls and women achieve their full potential as scientific researchers and innovators.â Science and gender equality are both essential for achieving internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Over the past 15 years, global efforts have increased to inspire and engage women and girls in science through education, policy reforms, and institutional support. However, significant gaps remain. Studies across multiple countries show that female students continue to be underrepresented in science-related higher education. Data indicates that only about 18% of women pursue a Bachelorâs degree in science-related fields, 8% complete a Masterâs degree, and just 2% reach the Doctoral level â compared with 37%, 18%, and 6% respectively among male students.
Bridging this gap requires systemic support including inclusive education systems, mentorship, funding opportunities, safe research environments, and strong representation in leadership roles. Encouraging girls in STEM from an early age and supporting women researchers and innovators is not only a matter of equality but also a strategic necessity for global progress, resilience, and sustainability.
On this day, institutions, policymakers, educators, and civil society renew their commitment to building a scientific ecosystem where talent is nurtured equally and innovation benefits from the full participation of women and girls.
Dr. Nehaal Mayur, Ph.D.
International Development Specialist | Social Scientist
we are reminded that every child, everywhere, deserves the gift of learning.
Education is not a privilege it is a fundamental human right.
From free and compulsory elementary education to accessible higher education, the world has committed to building a future where no child is left behind.
Under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, education stands at the heart of all progress.
SDG 4 calls on us to ensure inclusive, equitable and quality education, and lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Yet, millions of children are still denied classrooms, books, and dreams held back by poverty, conflict, displacement and climate crises.
I was deeply honored to witness this historic commitment at the United Nations General Assembly a moment that strengthened my resolve to serve the global family through education.
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2025
Theme: âEnding Social and Institutional Maltreatment: Ensuring Respect and Effective Support for Families Living in Povertyâ
As the world observes October 17, we are reminded that poverty is not just about the lack of income â itâs also about the denial of dignity, respect, and opportunity.
This yearâs theme calls on all of us to end the social and institutional maltreatment that millions of families face daily. It urges governments, institutions, and communities to ensure respect, equality, and effective support for every family living in poverty.
đ Did You Know?
The World Bank has updated the global extreme poverty line to US $3.00 per person per day (2025).
Around 817 million people still live in extreme poverty â thatâs nearly 1 in 10 people worldwide.
1 in 5 children continues to experience multidimensional poverty, facing not just hunger but also lack of access to education, healthcare, and basic services.
These are not just numbers â they are lives, dreams, and hopes waiting for justice. Poverty is not inevitable; it is the result of choices, policies, and systems that can be changed. Together, we can build societies that protect dignity and create pathways for every family to thrive.
Letâs remember â Dignity is not a privilege, itâs a right. đ«
The Security Council reform refers to the ongoing discussions and debates about restructuring and reconfiguring the United Nations Security Council to better represent the contemporary global geopolitical landscape. This reform primarily revolves around increasing the membership of the Security Council, which currently consists of five permanent members with veto power (the P5: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
Advocates for reform argue that the current structure doesnât adequately represent the diverse and evolving nature of the international community, as it reflects the geopolitical realities of the aftermath of World War II. There have been various proposals for reform, including expanding the permanent membership to include more countries from different regions of the world, revising the veto power system, and enhancing the representation of developing countries.
However, achieving a consensus on the specifics of the reform has proven challenging due to differing interests and priorities among UN member states. Any amendment to the Security Council's composition or functioning requires the approval of two-thirds of the General Assembly and the support of all five permanent members, which adds complexity to the process.
Efforts toward reform continue through discussions, negotiations, and proposals put forth by member states and groups seeking a more inclusive and representative Security Council that can better address contemporary global challenges.
"Empowering every voice at the United Nations fuels not just equality, but a symphony of diverse perspectives shaping our shared future."
Preserving Darjeeling: Nature-Based Recycling for Sustainable Waste Management.
Darjeeling, the picturesque hill station once renowned for its natural beauty, is now grappling with a significant civic crisis due to the e
Darjeeling, the picturesque hill station once renowned for its natural beauty, is now grappling with a significant civic crisis due to the escalating amounts of waste generated, particularly during the peak tourist seasons. The city, home to 1.35 lakh permanent residents and welcoming approximately seven lakh tourists annually, faces a critical issueâthe overwhelming garbage that pervades the streets, clogs drains, and contaminates the pristine natural streams.
The magnitude of this problem is evident in the staggering statistics: Darjeeling generates an average of 35 tonnes of waste daily, with figures surpassing 50 tonnes during the bustling tourist peaks. The bulk of this waste comprises organic and inorganic materials from households, hotels, and restaurants, contributing to the environmental degradation of this once-idyllic location.
Nature-Based Recycling for Sustainable Waste Management
To counteract this pressing issue and preserve the splendor of Darjeeling, a concerted effort towards nature-based recycling and sustainable waste management practices is imperative.
Implementing Segregation at Source: Encouraging residents, businesses, and tourists to segregate waste at the sourceâdifferentiating between organic and inorganic materialsâis pivotal. This step lays the foundation for effective recycling and composting.
Composting Organic Waste: Establishing community composting facilities aids in converting organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. This initiative not only reduces the burden on landfills but also provides a sustainable solution for nourishing gardens and agricultural lands in the region.
Promoting Recycling Centers: Setting up recycling centers for inorganic wasteâplastics, paper, glass, and metalsâencourages proper disposal and facilitates the recycling process. Education campaigns about the importance of recycling and its impact on the environment can bolster community participation.
Integrating Eco-Friendly Practices in Hospitality: Engaging hotels and restaurants in sustainable waste management practices, such as reducing single-use plastics, implementing composting, and recycling programs, significantly reduces the volume of waste generated within the hospitality sector.
Community Involvement and Awareness: Collaborative efforts involving local communities, NGOs, government bodies, and educational institutions are crucial. Awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational programs about waste reduction, segregation, and recycling foster a culture of responsibility and environmental consciousness.
Addressing the Challenges Ahead
The challenges confronting Darjeeling's waste management are multifaceted. Mitigating these issues demands a holistic approach encompassing both systemic changes and behavioral shifts:
Infrastructure Development: Investing in robust waste management infrastructure, including waste collection systems, recycling facilities, and composting units, is essential.
Policy Implementation: Enforcing stringent waste management policies, along with penalties for non-compliance, is pivotal in ensuring adherence to sustainable waste practices.
Tourist Education: Educating tourists about responsible waste disposal and the significance of preserving the natural beauty of Darjeeling is crucial in curbing the environmental impact of tourism.
Technological Innovations: Exploring innovative technologies for waste processing and management can aid in handling the growing waste volumes efficiently.
Preserving the Queen of Hills, Darjeeling, demands a collective effort. By embracing nature-based recycling and adopting sustainable waste management practices, the community can strive towards reclaiming and safeguarding the inherent beauty of this cherished hill station.
"Recycling is not just a choice; it's our chance to secure a thriving future for our planet."
International Migrants Day, observed on December 18, 2023, stands as a moment of reflection and celebration, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants across the globe.
The dynamism of individuals in motion serves as a catalyst for development, playing diverse roles as workers, students, entrepreneurs, artists, and more, impacting both their countries of origin and their new communities. Their ability to maintain ties with their roots while embracing new environments enriches societies with knowledge, experience, and skills.
When managed effectively, mobility becomes a cornerstone for sustainable development, fostering prosperity and advancement. Harnessing the full potential of migration aligns with the aspirations articulated in the 2030 Agenda during the Sustainable Development Goal summit in New York in September 2023, promising benefits for all.
Urgency defines the need for people-centric, evidence-based solutions that enable individuals to remain in their communities or, for those who choose or are compelled to move, support their transition.
The recently concluded COP28 summit in Dubai underscored the imperative for acknowledging the impact of climate change on migrants, advocating for inclusive partnerships involving migrants, women, persons with disabilities, and communities. Emphasizing the role of youth is paramount in this pursuit.
This International Migrants Day, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) seeks to position migration as a viable solution to global challenges. From adapting to climate change impacts to fostering enhanced economic prospects for communities, migration stands among the pathways to address these issues.
"Every person can make a difference. Every person can be an agent of change. Together, our collective actions today will prepare us for a better tomorrow."
Communities affected by HIV, including key population networks and youth leaders, have been and continue to be pivotal in driving progress within the HIV response.
Their roles encompass crucial facets such as offering vital prevention, testing, and treatment support services, fostering trust, devising innovative solutions, promoting overall health, overseeing policy implementation, and holding service providers accountable.
Empowering communities to take the lead offers a pathway to potentially eradicating AIDS globally. This yearâs World AIDS Day theme, âLet communities leadâ, and much more than a celebration of community achievements; itâs a call to action.
It urges the facilitation and support of communities in their leadership roles within the HIV response.
Over 30 million people are living with HIV/AIDS, with over 2 million people infected each year. It remains the leading cause of death worldwide.
World AIDS Day is a key opportunity to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, commemorate those who have lost their lives, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services.
Events are held to help eradicate the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, raise awareness of the connection between HIV and AIDS, and to raise funds for prophylaxis that can prevent mother-to-child transmission.
http://www.un.org/en/events/aidsday/
âWe have so much power to bring awareness, prevention and change.â
Tsunamis pose a significant threat to all of us, but they are particularly dangerous for certain groups of people, such as women, children, people with disabilities, and older persons. The main objective of this year's World Tsunami Awareness Day is to raise consciousness about reducing the risks created by these giant waves and improving community preparedness.
Although tsunamis are infrequent, they can have devastating consequences. In the last century, only 58 tsunamis have occurred, but they have claimed over 260,000 lives. On average, each disaster has caused the death of 4,600 people, more than any other natural hazard (United Nations, 2022).
This year's World Tsunami Awareness Day theme is "Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future," which mirrors the subject highlighted during the International Day for Disaster Reduction. The observance encourages all sectors of society to engage and collaborate on disaster risk reduction.
The activities during this observance aim to explore the relationship between tsunamis and inequality. Specifically, they focus on how inequality can make tsunamis more dangerous for certain populations and how the aftermath of a tsunami can drive vulnerable people further into poverty, thus worsening inequality.
"Persistence and resilience only come from having been given the chance to work through difficult problems."
Tsunamis pose a significant threat to all of us, but they are particularly dangerous for certain groups of people, such as women, children, people with disabilities, and older persons. The main objective of this year's World Tsunami Awareness Day is to raise consciousness about reducing the risks created by these giant waves and improving community preparedness.
Although tsunamis are infrequent, they can have devastating consequences. In the last century, only 58 tsunamis have occurred, but they have claimed over 260,000 lives. On average, each disaster has caused the death of 4,600 people, more than any other natural hazard (United Nations, 2022).
This year's World Tsunami Awareness Day theme is "Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future," which mirrors the subject highlighted during the International Day for Disaster Reduction. The observance encourages all sectors of society to engage and collaborate on disaster risk reduction.
The activities during this observance aim to explore the relationship between tsunamis and inequality. Specifically, they focus on how inequality can make tsunamis more dangerous for certain populations and how the aftermath of a tsunami can drive vulnerable people further into poverty, thus worsening inequality.
"Persistence and resilience only come from having been given the chance to work through difficult problems."
Today World humanitarian day marks the twentieth anniversary of the attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, and to show our unwavering commitment to deliver for the communities we serve, no matter who, no matter where and #NoMatterWhat.
Humanitarians have no other purpose than to save and protect lives and to deliver the basic necessities of life. They stand shoulder to shoulder with the communities they serve and bring hope.
On 19 August 2003, we lost 22 colleagues in an attack on the United Nations in Baghdad, Iraq. The tragedy profoundly changed the way in which humanitarians operate â from being respected to being targeted â and this led to the creation of World Humanitarian Day (WHD)
Today, 20 years on, our work has grown in scale and complexity. We aim to help almost 250 million people â 10 times more people than in 2003.
Humanitarian efforts have grown. From rising geopolitical tensions and the blatant disregard of international humanitarian law to deliberate attacks and disinformation campaigns, our work is more difficult and dangerous than ever.
Amid these trials, we have grown stronger, and we are closer to the women, men, and children we serve. We venture deep into disaster-stricken regions and closer to the front lines of conflict with no other purpose than saving and protecting lives and delivering the basics of life: food, water, shelter, education, health, nutrition and protection.
The total number of humanitarian aid workers around the world has been calculated by ALNAP, a network of agencies working in the humanitarian system, as 210,800 in 2008. This is made up of roughly 50% from NGOs, 25% from the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, and 25% from the UN system.
Bal Gangadhar Tilak died on 1 August 1920 and since then we have been remembering him on his death anniversary.
Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a social reformer, Indian nationalist, and freedom fighter. He was a follower of Swaraj and died on 1 August 1920. His speeches in Marathi and Hindi were popular. He helped in laying the foundation for India's independence against Britishers and converted it into a national movement.
He is credited as the first leader of the Indian Independence Movement. He was lovingly called âLokmanyaâ which means âaccepted by peopleâ. Bal Gangadhar Tilak was the foremost and most active leader of the Indian freedom struggle and is known for paving the way for subsequent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhai Patel.
The British called him the âFather of Indian Unrestâ.
âSwaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it!â
Bal Gangadhar Tilak
This slogan was used by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. This instilled the importance of âSwarajâ in people and also made them aware of their rights along with Provoking their love for the country.
For 67 years Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanityâas a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker and the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa.
Nelson Mandela International Day recognizes the former South African Presidentâs contribution to the culture of peace and freedom.
The UN joins a call by the Nelson Mandela Foundation to devote 67 minutes to helping others as a way to mark this Day.
The UN General Assembly proclaimed this observance in its 2009 resolution A/RES/64/13.
http://www.un.org/en/events/mandeladay/
Be passionate. âEveryone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.â
The Right to Development and the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development
The effective implementation of all human rights requires international solidarity and cooperation, global partnership for development, policy coherence, coordination and integrated approaches at all levels. It requires the international community to act together with unity and renewed multilateralism to create an enabling global environment free of structural obstacles, wherein all individuals, peoples and nations have opportunities for inclusive, equitable and sustainable development.
The United Nations Declaration on the Right to Development offers hope to the millions of people around the world who face the daily realities of poverty and inequalities. The aspiration to make the right to development a reality for all in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs 2000-2015), also informs the contemporary global development policy framework â the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 2015-2030).
Reinforcing solidarity in the 2030 Agenda
Together with People, Planet, Prosperity and Peace, Partnership is key to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Agenda reaffirms that âWe are determined to mobilize the means required to implement this Agenda through a revitalised Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, based on a spirit of strengthened global solidarity, focused in particular on the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable and with the participation of all countries, all stakeholders and all peopleâ.
To this end, Goal 17 aims to âStrengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable developmentâ. SDG 17 includes targets on Finance, Technology, Capacity-Building, Trade and Systemic Issues.
Sustainable development is a fundamental break that's going to reshuffle the entire deck.
According to the data provided by the International Council for Small Business (ICSB), formal and informal Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) make up over 90% of all firms and account on average for 60-70% of total employment and 50% of GDP.
The General Assembly, recognizing the importance of these enterprises, decided to declare 27 June the Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day to raise public awareness of their contribution to sustainable development.
Micro-, small and medium enterprises, the first responders to societal needs.
These types of enterprises are responsible for significant employment and income generation opportunities across the world and have been identified as a major driver of poverty alleviation and development.
MSMEs tend to employ a larger share of the vulnerable sectors of the workforce, such as women, youth, and people from poorer households.
MSMEs can even sometimes be the only source of employment in rural areas.
As such, MSMEs as a group are the main income provider for the income distribution at the âbase of the pyramidâ.
MSMEs should be the first responders to societal needs and provide the safety net for inclusiveness.
The world drug problem is a complex issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Many people who use drugs face stigma and discrimination, which can further harm their physical and mental health and prevent them from accessing the help they need. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recognizes the importance of taking a people-centered approach to drug policies, with a focus on human rights, compassion, and evidence-based practices.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is marked on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. The aim of this yearâs campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of treating people who use drugs with respect and empathy; providing evidence-based, voluntary services for all; offering alternatives to punishment; prioritizing prevention; and leading with compassion. The campaign also aims to combat stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs by promoting language and attitudes that are respectful and non-judgmental.
Every year, UNODC issues the World Drug Report, full of key statistics and factual data obtained through official sources, a science-based approach and research. UNODC continues to provide facts and practical solutions to address the current world drug problem and remains committed to attaining health for all. Health and justice sectors are under pressure and access to services and support is obstructed when we can least afford it
For two decades, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has been helping make the world safer from drugs, organized crime, corruption and terrorism. We are committed to achieving health, security and justice for all by tackling these threats and promoting peace and sustainable well-being as deterrents to them.
International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also mark other UN observances.
Social workers join the world in celebrating Public Service Day 2023.
The theme, that is at the heart of social work, calls for adaptations and innovations to address the emerging societal needs for sustainable development that social workers co-facilitate and co-create with communities. Social workers work with individuals, families, and communities to navigate challenges, access resources, and improve their overall well-being contributing to sustainable development.
On this day, we celebrate and acknowledge the accomplishments achieved under tough challenges ranging from minimal funding from governments, covid 19, wars, and other modern challenges. We share common experiences in different ways globally and continue promoting social justice to all in our societies.
Social workers have a great role in service provision, and this goes undisputed. We, therefore, share the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and the importance of supporting social welfare initiatives.
We are dedicated and committed to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Together we can make the world a better place to live in.
The Peopleâs Charter for an Eco-Social World outcome from the Peoplesâ Summit 2022, co-facilitated by social workers under the IFSW highlighted the need for a collaborative approach in working together to resolve global challenges. Just as the summit involved multiple global organisations, faiths, professions, trade unions, social movements, UN agencies, and community representatives, collectively representing 100s of millions of people. The Charter encourages governments and citizens to innovatively work together to co-create sustainable solutions at the local and international levels.
The United NationsbPublic Service Day.
Intends to celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the community; highlight the contribution of public service in the development process; recognize the work of public servants, and encourage young people to pursue careers in the public sector. Since the first Awards Ceremony in 2003, the United Nations has received an increasing number of submissions from all around the world.
It's an honor with responsibility to serve our world as one big family.
