U.N. International Awareness and Commemorative Dates

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2018/12/20 - Updated: 2025/05/01
Publication Type: Awareness, Appreciation
Topic: Disability Awareness - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates

Synopsis: This information provides a comprehensive overview of international awareness and commemorative dates established by the United Nations and affiliated organizations such as WHO and UNESCO. It outlines various observances, including days, weeks, years, and decades, dedicated to promoting global awareness on critical issues like health, human rights, and environmental sustainability. The compilation serves as a valuable resource for individuals, educators, and organizations aiming to align their initiatives with globally recognized observances, fostering inclusivity and informed advocacy. By highlighting these dates, the information aids in planning events and campaigns that resonate with international efforts to address diverse challenges, making it particularly beneficial for communities including those with disabilities and seniors - Disabled World (DW).

Introduction

What Are International Days of Observance?

International days of observance, and/or awareness, are notable observed periods such as days, weeks, months, years and even decades, declared by various world governments, major groups and organizations to raise awareness of a particular issue, to commemorate a group or event, or created to celebrate an occasion.

Focus

By creating special dates or observances, the United Nations (U.N.) promotes international awareness and action on a number of important world issues. Many of these dates have been established by:

Listed below is a list of international days of observance observed or declared by the United Nations.

International Awareness and Commemorative Dates as Observed by the United Nations

Jump To:

U.N. International Days

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

U.N. International Weeks

February

March

April

May

August

October

November

U.N. International Years

U.N. International Decades

Insights, Analysis, and Developments

Editorial Note: In an increasingly interconnected world, recognizing and participating in international observances can bridge cultural and societal gaps. This compilation not only informs but also encourages proactive engagement in global dialogues, reinforcing the importance of collective action in addressing universal concerns. By cataloging these observances, the article underscores the UN's commitment to fostering solidarity across borders. For marginalized groups, such dates offer a platform to amplify voices, while the systematic organization aids educators and advocates in planning targeted initiatives-turning awareness into tangible progress - Disabled World (DW).

Author Credentials: Ian is an Australian-born writer, editor, and advocate who currently resides in Montreal, Canada. He is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.

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Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: Disabled World. (2018, December 20 - Last revised: 2025, May 1). U.N. International Awareness and Commemorative Dates. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved May 24, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/awareness/un-dates.php

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