1. International Widows Day - 23 June
Tags: Important Days
International Widows Day is observed annually on 23 June.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to raise awareness about the challenging circumstances faced by widows, especially poverty.
The theme for International Widows Day 2023 is "Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality".
The United Nations introduces a new theme each year to highlight the challenges faced by widows.
The theme chosen for 2023 emphasizes the role of innovative solutions and technological advances in promoting gender equality.
History of International Widows Day:
It was established in 2005 by The Loomba Foundation.
In 2010, the United Nations officially adopted International Widows Day, increasing its importance globally.
The recognition from the United Nations ensures that there is international support for the issues faced by widows and the need to address their challenges.
About United Nations
Member countries -193
Official Languages - Russian, English, French, Arabic, Chinese and Spanish.
Motto - Peace, Dignity and Equality on a Healthy Planet
Secretary-General - Antonio Guterres
Headquarters - New York, United States
2. United Nations Public Service Day - 23 June
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United Nations Public Service Day is celebrated every year on 23 June.
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The day is dedicated to appreciating the importance of public services and the people who work in them.
The United Nations established the United Nations Public Service Awards to recognize and reward exceptional public service projects.
The award program was updated in 2016 to align with the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
United Nations Public Service Day reminds us of the value of public service and encourages young people to consider careers in this field.
History of United Nations Public Service Day
On 20 December 2002, the General Assembly designated 23 June as United Nations Public Service Day.
It aims to recognize the important role of public service in development.
The United Nations Public Service Awards (UNPSA) were created to honor exemplary public service institutions.
UNPSA aims to improve government effectiveness and enhance public welfare.
Public service refers to the services provided by the government in a specific area.
Civil servants work to make a positive difference in people's lives and prioritize the well-being of the community.
United Nations Public Service Day and UNPSA promote the importance of public service around the world.
June 2023 Days and Themes
Days | Themes |
21 June - International Yoga Day | "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" |
21 June - World Music Day | "Music at the Intersections" (2022) |
20 June - World Refugee Day | "Hope away from home" |
19 June - International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict | "Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence." |
3. World Music Day - 21 June
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World Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique, is celebrated annually on 21 June.
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The program emphasizes the impact of music and its ability to connect people universally.
Musicians from different genres come together to showcase their talents in public areas.
World Music Day promotes a vibrant and inclusive environment for people around the world to appreciate music.
The theme for World Music Day 2022 was "Music at the Intersections".
The theme aims to explore and appreciate music at an intersectional level, highlighting the diverse influences and connections within music.
History of World Music Day:
The concept dates back to 1982, when French Minister of Culture Jacques Lang proposed the idea of a day dedicated to music.
An alternative theory suggests that the festival can be traced back to 1976 when Joel Cohen proposed an all-night concert to celebrate the summer solstice.
The first World Music Day event took place in Paris in 1982, with over 1,000 musicians performing in different parts of the city.
Musicians of all genres and backgrounds took to the streets, parks and concert venues to share their passion for music at the opening ceremony.
4. International Yoga Day - 21 June
Tags: Important Days
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International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on 21 June.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to promote the many benefits of practicing yoga.
The date chosen coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
International Yoga Day encourages physical, mental and spiritual harmony.
The theme chosen for International Day of Yoga 2023 is "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam".
The theme represents the shared desire of "One Earth, One Family, One Future".
Yoga promotes meditation, stress reduction, and overall health and vitality.
In 2023, the International Day of Yoga took place on June 21 at the United Nations Headquarters under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This is the first time that a yoga session was organized by the Prime Minister at this place.
History of International Yoga Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of a dedicated Yoga Day in 2014 during his speech at the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
On 11 December 2014, all 193 member states of the United Nations unanimously agreed to observe 21 June as the International Day of Yoga.
The inaugural ceremony of International Day of Yoga took place on June 21, 2015.
International Yoga Day has received global recognition and is celebrated in more than 190 countries.
June 2023 Days and Themes
Days | Themes |
14 June - World Blood Donor Day | "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often." |
13 June - International Albinism Awareness Day | "United in making our voices heard" |
12 June - World Day Against Child Labour | "Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!" |
8 June - World Oceans Day | "Planet Ocean: The Tides Are Changing". |
5. World Refugee Day - 20 June
Tags: Important Days
World Refugee Day is observed annually on 20 June.
An Overview of the News
World Refugee Day is an internationally recognized day established by the United Nations.
Its purpose is to pay tribute to refugees around the world.
The day serves as a platform to acknowledge the bravery and determination of individuals who have been forced to flee their homeland due to conflict or persecution.
The theme for World Refugee Day 2023 is "Hope away from home".
The theme emphasizes the importance of mental well-being for refugees in rebuilding their lives and striving for a brighter future.
History of World Refugee Day
It originated with the resolution 55/76 of the United Nations General Assembly passed on 4 December 2000.
The purpose of the resolution is to raise awareness of the growing global refugee population and to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
The Refugee Convention of 1951 was established after World War II to establish a legal framework to protect and ensure the rights of refugees.
The convention defined criteria for identifying individuals as refugees, outlined their rights, and defined the responsibilities of states in providing protection and assistance to them.
6. World Sickle Cell Awareness Day - 19 June
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World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed on 19 June each year to raise awareness of the impact of sickle cell disease (SCD) on individuals, families and communities around the world.
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It aims to raise awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD).
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder and is characterised by abnormal red blood cells that take on a crescent or sickle shape.
Irregularly shaped cells can cause blockage in the blood vessels and this leads to various health complications.
This disease affects individuals, families and communities around the world.
This can result in organ damage, anaemia and increased susceptibility to infection.
History of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day:
It originated from a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly on 22 December 2008.
The resolution recognized sickle cell disease as a global health concern.
The disease mainly affects people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian origin.
7. International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict - 19 June
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The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed on 19 June every year.
An Overview of the News
Its main goal is to raise awareness and end sexual violence in conflict situations.
The theme for 2023 is "Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence."
The day focuses on the prevalence and consequences of sexual violence in conflict zones.
About the United Nations (UN)
It was established in 1945 and is headquartered in New York, United States.
The primary goal of the United Nations is to adapt to an ever-changing world and to promote international cooperation among nations.
It serves as a central hub to facilitate dialogue, negotiation and coordination among its 193 member states.
The United Nations encompasses almost all globally recognized sovereign nations, making it a truly universal organization.
Its main focus lies in addressing global challenges such as peace and security, human rights, sustainable development and climate change.
8. International Day for Countering Hate Speech - 18 June
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The International Day for Countering Hate Speech is observed annually on 18 June.
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The day serves as a reminder to address the global problem of hate speech.
Hate speech, amplified by communication technologies, contributes to violence, intolerance and fragmentation.
The International Day for Countering Hate Speech stresses the need for concerted efforts.
Its goal is to counter the spread of divisive language and promote mutual understanding, respect and inclusivity.
History of International Day for Countering Hate Speech
The International Day for Countering Hate Speech is a global initiative.
In July 2021, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution stressing the need to combat hate speech.
The resolution recognizes that hate speech is a threat to human rights and social cohesion.
The day is based on the United Nations Strategy and Action Plan on Hate Speech launched on June 18, 2019.
June 2023 Days and Themes
World Blood Donor Day - 14 June - Theme - "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often."
International Albinism Awareness Day - 13 June - Theme - "United in making our voices heard".
World Day Against Child Labour - 12 June - Theme - "Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!"
World Accreditation Day - 9 June - Theme - "Accreditation: Supporting the Future of Global Business."
World Oceans Day - 8 June - Theme - "Planet Ocean: The Tides Are Changing".
World Environment Day - 5 June - Theme - 'Solutions to plastic pollution'.
9. World Father’s Day-18 June
Tags: Important Days
Father's Day is a special occasion celebrated in many countries around the world to honor and appreciate fathers. It is celebrated on the third Sunday of June. This year Father's Day 2023 is being celebrated on 18th June.
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It is a day to express love, gratitude, and respect towards fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and other father figures who have played important roles in people's lives.
People celebrate Father's Day by giving cards, gifts, or spending quality time with their fathers.
The significance of Father's Day goes beyond material gifts, as it serves as a reminder to acknowledge the love, support, and guidance provided by fathers.
It is an opportunity to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children and to recognize the invaluable role fathers play in their families and society.
This year's Father's Day theme is ‘Celebrating the Greatest Heroes of Our Lives’.
Background of the day
The origins of Father's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States.
Sonora Smart Dodd is often credited with the idea of establishing a day to honor fathers, inspired by Mother's Day.
The first official Father's Day was celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, Washington.
Over the years, Father's Day has gained widespread recognition and is celebrated in various countries around the world.
It was officially recognised by the U.S. Congress in 1972.
10. Global Wind Day
Tags: Important Days
Every year on June 15th, people worldwide unite to celebrate World Wind Day.
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This is a significant event that highlights the immense potential and importance of wind energy in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
In India, these celebrations were initiated by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.
As a part of the celebrations, a day-long program was organized in New Delhi.
The event discussed the success, progress and potential of wind energy in India.
Theme of celebration in India was ‘Pawan – Urja: Powering the Future of India’.
MNRE has set a target of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Background of the day
World Wind Day was first established in 2007 by the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA), which later became WindEurope.
The event aimed to promote wind power and increase public awareness about its potential as a renewable energy source.
Over the years, World Wind Day has gained international recognition, with numerous countries and organizations actively participating in the celebrations.
Important facts about Wind Energy
Wind power is a renewable energy source generated by harnessing thekinetic energy of the wind through wind turbines.
Wind turbines are often found in wind farms, which consist of multiple turbines strategically placed to maximize energy production.
Wind power is clean and produces no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants during operation, contributing to improved air quality and reduced environmental impact.
Wind energy is a rapidly growing industry globally, with increasing investments and technological advancements leading to greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Wind energy has the potential to provide a significant portion of the world's electricity needs and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
