| Prepared by Publications Service and issued by Meetings Coverage Section, DPI | Reference Paper No. 37 February 1998 |
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The fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights is being observed throughout
the United Nations, culminating on 10 December in a commemoration by the General Assembly.
The Universal Declaration was adopted by the General Assembly, in Paris, on 10 December 1948 -- a
day that has since been observed as Human Rights Day. Stressing the centrality of human rights, the
General Assembly in 1997 proclaimed the International Day in Support of the Victims of Torture, 26
June, to boost efforts aimed at eradicating torture.
In 1998, the World Conference on International Cooperation of Cities and Citizens for Cultivating an Eco-Society will meet in Tokyo (26-29 May), and the United Nations Diplomatic Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Establishment of an International Criminal Court will be held in Rome (15 June-17 July). In 1999, the Third United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE III) will convene in Vienna (19-30 July). In 2000, two conferences will convene: the second World Conference on Natural Disaster Reduction, and the Tenth United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and Treatment of Offenders. The Third United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries will be held in 2001. Special sessions of the General Assembly will focus on illicit drugs (8-10 June 1998), on disarmament (1999, provisional), and on the follow-up to recent conferences: on the International Conference on Population and Development (1999); on the World Summit for Social Development (2000); on the Fourth World Conference on Women (2000); on the World Summit for Children (2001); and on the second United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (2001). The International Year of the Ocean is being observed in 1998. Preparations for the International Year of Older Persons (1999) are under way. The Assembly in 1997 proclaimed the International Year for the Culture of Peace (2000), the International Year of Thanksgiving (2000) and the International Year of Volunteers (2001). This page contains information on United Nations conferences and special observances scheduled for 1998 and ensuing years, as well as on various internationally recognized decades, years, weeks and days. |
International Year for the Culture of Peace (2000)
As recommended by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Assembly on 20 November 1997 proclaimed 2000 the International Year for the Culture of Peace (resolution 52/15).The Council (resolution 1997/47 of 22 July 1997) recommended that the programme of activities and the scope of the Year should focus on respect for cultural diversity and promotion of tolerance, solidarity, cooperation, dialogue and reconciliation. It designated the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the focal point for the Year.
International Day of Peace (Third Tuesday of September)
In 1981, the General Assembly declared that the third Tuesday of September, the opening day of the regular session of the General Assembly, "shall be officially dedicated and observed as the International Day of Peace and shall be devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples" (resolution 36/67). In a message commemorating the Day in 1997, the Secretary-General said that peace is understood "not just as the absence of conflict, but as a phenomenon encompassing economic development, social justice, environmental protection, democratization, disarmament and respect for human rights".
DISARMAMENT AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY
Third United Nations Conference on the Exploration
and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE III) (1999)
On 10 December 1997, the General Assembly convened the third United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE III), in Vienna from 19 to 30 July 1999, as a special session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (resolution 52/56). The Committee on Outer Space serves as the preparatory committee for the Conference, and its Scientific and Technical Subcommittee as the advisory committee. In preparation for the Conference, Chile has offered to host a United Nations regional meeting for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Malaysia for Asia and the Pacific, with Tunisia indicating its willingness to host a similar meeting for Africa.
The Assembly decided to hold the Conference, open to all Member States, on the recommendation of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (resolution 51/123 of 13 December 1996). States, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations with space activities, and space-related industries were encouraged to contribute to the Conference. The first and second UNISPACE conferences were held in Vienna in 1968 and 1982.
Special session of the General Assembly on Disarmament (1999)
The General Assembly, on 9 December 1997, decided to convene its fourth special session devoted to disarmament, subject to the emergence of a consensus on its objectives and agenda. It also decided to set an exact date for and to decide on organizational matters relating to the special session at its next regular session, subject to the outcome of deliberations at the 1998 substantive session of the Disarmament Committee (resolution 52/38 F).
In deciding to convene the special session (resolution 50/70 F of 12 December 1995), the Assembly had established a Preparatory Committee to produce a draft agenda and examine all related questions. Previous special sessions of the Assembly devoted to disarmament were held in 1978, 1982 and 1988.
Review Conference of the States Parties to the Treaty
on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) (2000)
The next Review Conference of the Parties to the 1968 Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (Non-Proliferation Treaty) will be held in 2000; the Conference's Preparatory Committee will hold its second session in Geneva from 27 April to 8 May 1998. On 10 December 1996, the General Assembly called on States Parties to the Treaty to make efforts for a smooth start of the strengthened review process (resolution 51/45 G). At the last review Conference in 1995, in a major step to advance non-proliferation, States Parties decided to extend the Treaty indefinitely -- a decision the Assembly welcomed later in the same year (resolution 50/70 C).
Third Disarmament Decade (1990s)
In December 1990, the General Assembly declared the 1990s as the Third Disarmament Decade (resolution 45/62 A). The decision followed the declaration of two earlier disarmament decades, in the 1970s and 1980s.
In adopting the Declaration of the 1990s as the Third Disarmament Decade, the Assembly identified common objectives for the international community in the 1990s, including reducing and eventually eliminating nuclear weapons; a comprehensive nuclear-test ban treaty; strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime; reducing conventional arms and armed forces; a convention prohibiting all chemical weapons; advancing the scope and techniques of verification; and greater transparency in military matters.
The Decade has witnessed major achievements. On 10 September 1996, the Assembly adopted the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (resolution 50/245). In 1997, the 1992 Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction entered into force with 87 original States Parties -- a development the Assembly welcomed on 9 December 1997 (resolution 52/38 T).
With regard to landmines, the Assembly has welcomed the adoption of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-personnel Mines and on Their Destruction, open for signature in Ottawa in December 1997, and has urged all States to sign and ratify it (resolution 52/38 of 9 December 1997). The Assembly has also called on all States to become parties to the 1980 Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons Which May Be Deemed to Be Excessively Injurious or Have Indiscriminate Effects and its Protocol II of 1996, which adds provisions on mine-clearance, notably the requirement of detectability (resolution 52/42 of 9 December 1997).
Disarmament Week (24-30 October)
The annual observance of Disarmament Week, which begins on the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, was called for in the Final Document of the General Assembly 1978 special session on disarmament (resolution S-10/2). States were invited to highlight the danger of the arms race, propagate the need for its cessation and increase public understanding of the urgent tasks of disarmament.
In 1995, the Assembly invited Governments as well as international and national non-governmental organizations to continue taking an active part in Disarmament Week (resolution 50/72 B of 12 December). It invited the Secretary-General to continue using the United Nations information organs as widely as possible to promote a better understanding among the world public of disarmament problems and the aims of the Week.
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (29 November)
By a 1977 resolution, the General Assembly called for the annual observance of 29 November as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (resolution 32/40 B). On that day, in 1947, the Assembly had adopted the resolution on the partition of Palestine (resolution 181 (II)).
On 9 December 1997, the Assembly noted the action taken by Member States to observe the Day of Solidarity and requested them to continue to give it the widest possible publicity (resolution 52/49).
Reaffirming that the United Nations had a permanent responsibility with respect to the question of Palestine until it was resolved in a satisfactory manner "in accordance with international legitimacy", the Assembly on 9 December 1997 authorized the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People to continue to promote the exercise of these rights, to adjust its work programme in the light of developments, and to emphasize the need to mobilize support and assistance for the Palestinian people (resolution 52/49).
The Committee was requested to continue to cooperate with non-governmental organizations in their contribution towards heightening international awareness on the question of Palestine and promoting support and assistance to the Palestinian people.
International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism (1990-2000)
In 1988, the General Assembly declared 1990-2000 as the International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism (resolution 43/47). In 1991, it declared that the ultimate goal of the Decade was the free exercise of the right of self-determination by the peoples of each and every one of the remaining Non-Self-Governing Territories. In endorsing the Plan of Action for the Decade, the Assembly invited Member States, the United Nations system, governmental and non-governmental organizations to support and participate in implementing that Plan (resolution 46/181).
On 10 December 1997, the Assembly reaffirmed its resolution proclaiming the Decade, and called upon the administering powers to take steps to enable the peoples of the Territories to exercise fully their right to self-determination, including independence (resolution 52/78). It recalled the need to take measures to eliminate the last vestiges of colonialism by the year 2000, as called for in the resolution that proclaimed the Decade.
Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of All Colonial Territories
Fighting for Freedom, Independence and Human Rights
(beginning 25 May)
By resolution 2911(XXVII) of 2 November 1972, the General Assembly appealed to the Governments and the peoples of the world to hold annually a Week of Solidarity with the Colonial Peoples of Southern Africa and Guinea (Bissau) and Cape Verde Fighting For Freedom, Independence and Equal Rights, and proposed that the Week should begin on 25 May, Africa Liberation Day. Subsequently, the observance has been commemorated as the Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of all Colonial Territories Fighting for Freedom, Independence and Human Rights.
Special session of the General Assembly to review implementation
of the Programme of Action of the International Conference
on Population and Development (1999)
On 18 December 1997 (resolution 52/188), the General Assembly decided to convene a high-level special session, from 30 June to 2 July 1999, to review and appraise the implementation of the Programme of Action of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development. The Commission on Population and Development is to serve as the preparatory body for the special session.
At the Conference, held in Cairo in 1994, delegations from more than 180 countries agreed on a worldwide strategy to curb global population growth over the next two decades and achieve sustained economic growth and sustainable development.
Special session of the General Assembly on the implementation
of the outcome of the World Summit for Social Development (2000)
On 26 November 1997 (resolution 52/25) the General Assembly, recalling its 1995 decision to hold a special session in 2000 to review and appraise implementation of the recommendations of the World Summit for Social Development (resolution 50/161), established a Preparatory Committee for the special session. The Committee will hold an organizational session in New York from 19 to 22 May 1998, and begin its substantive activities in 1999.
At the Summit, held in 1995 in Copenhagen, heads of State or Government from 117 countries pledged to give highest priority to policies promoting social progress, justice and the betterment of the human condition.
International Year of Thanksgiving (2000)
As recommended by the Economic and Social Council, the General Assembly, by resolution 52/16 of 20 November 1997, proclaimed 2000 the International Year of Thanksgiving.
Proposing to begin the new century and millennium with such an international year (resolution 1997/46 of 22 July 1997), the Council felt that dedicating a year to the act of giving thanks provided the opportunity to remember the importance of cultural diversity in developing a rich and harmonious international life. It affirmed that the initiative would contribute to international cooperation by creating an awareness among peoples and Governments of the importance of gratitude in the personal and civic life of every human being, and in the relations between countries and cultures.
International Year of Volunteers (2001)
On the recommendation of the Economic and Social Council (resolution 1997/44 of 22 July 1997), the General Assembly on 20 November 1997 proclaimed 2001 the International Year of Volunteers (resolution 52/17). The Council felt that a year designed to enhance the recognition, facilitation, networking and promotion of volunteer service would help increase awareness of its achievements and potential, to encourage service from an expanded number of individuals and to channel resources to such service. The United Nations Volunteer programme was designated as the focal point for the Year.
International Volunteer Day for Economic
and Social Development (5 December)
The General Assembly has invited Governments to observe annually, on
5 December, an International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, also urging them to heighten awareness of the contribution of volunteer service, thereby stimulating more people in all walks of life to offer their services as volunteers, both at home and abroad (resolution 40/212 of 17 December 1985).
World Conference on International Cooperation of Cities and
Citizens for Cultivating an Eco-Society (1998)
An international conference on urban development and preservation of the environment -- the World Conference on International Cooperation of Cities and Citizens for Cultivating an Eco-Society -- will take place in Tokyo, from 26 to 29 May 1998, under the joint auspices of the United Nations and the Tokyo Metropolitan government.
Known as "Eco-Partnership Tokyo", the conference will stress the need for effective partnerships, both within countries and among cities worldwide. It will aim at forming networks for cooperation among cities, as well as establishing mechanisms to assist cities and municipal governments in strengthening partnerships for the creation of an "eco-society".
International Year of the Ocean (1998)
As recommended by the Economic and Social Council in July 1994 (resolution 1994/48), the General Assembly, on 19 December 1994, proclaimed 1998 International Year of the Ocean (resolution 49/131). Proclamation of the Year had been called for by the twenty-seventh session of the General Conference of UNESCO in 1994 (resolution 2.5), to call international attention to the decisive role the ocean plays in shaping the life of the planet. The General Conference had felt the need for a special worldwide public information effort to prepare for decision-making related to the protection and management of the oceans, the seas and the coastal marine environment, and had called for the support and collaboration of Member States, international governmental and non-governmental organizations, and regional bodies and programmes.
World Day for Water
(22 March)
The General Assembly has declared 22 March as World Day for Water (resolution 47/193 of 22 December 1992). The observance of that Day aims at promoting awareness of the extent to which water resource development contributes to economic productivity and social well-being.
World Environment Day (5 June)
By resolution 2994 (XXVII)) of 15 December 1972, the General Assembly designated 5 June as World Environment Day, to deepen public awareness of the need to preserve and enhance the environment. That date was chosen because it was the opening day of the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (Stockholm, 1972), which led to the establishment of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Twenty years later, the Assembly convened the "Earth Summit" in Rio de Janeiro, where nations came together to take up the challenges of a viable and equitable balance between environment and development.
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (17 June)
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, 17 June, was proclaimed by the General Assembly in 1994 (resolution 49/115). On that date, the same year, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification was adopted. States were invited to devote the World Day to promoting awareness of the need for international cooperation to combat desertification and the effects of drought, and on the implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer (16 September)
In 1994, the General Assembly proclaimed 16 September the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the date of the signing, in 1987, of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (resolution 49/114 of 19 December). States were invited to devote the Day to promote activities in accordance with the objectives of the Montreal Protocol and its amendments. The ozone layer, a fragile shield of gas, protects the Earth from the harmful portion of the rays of the sun, thus helping preserve life on the planet.
International Day for Biological Diversity (29 December)
On 19 December 1994, the General Assembly proclaimed 29 December, the date of entry into force of the Convention on Biological Diversity, International Day for Biological Diversity (resolution 49/119). The designation of the Day had been recommended by the Conference of the Parties to the Convention, held in Nassau in 1994.
Third United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (2001)
The General Assembly, on 18 December 1997, decided to convene the Third United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries in 2001, the date, duration and venue to be decided by the intergovernmental preparatory committee for the Conference (resolution 52/187).
The high-level conference will assess the results of the Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries for the 1990s (resolution 45/206 of 21 December 1990), review implementation of international support measures, and formulate and adopt policies and measures for the sustainable development of the least developed countries and their progressive integration into the world economy. The focal point for the Conference is the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Fourth United Nations Development Decade (1991-2000)
The General Assembly, in 1990, proclaimed the Fourth United Nations Development Decade, starting on 1 January 1991, and adopted the International Development Strategy for the Decade (resolution 45/199). The Strategy aimed at ensuring that the 1990s would be a decade of accelerated development in the developing countries and of strengthened international cooperation; a period that would witness a significant improvement in the human condition in those countries and a reduction in the gap between rich and poor nations.
To achieve such an aim, interrelated goals were stated, among them: a development process that was responsive to social needs, sought to reduce extreme poverty, promoted the development of human resources, and was environmentally sound and sustainable; improvement of the international finance and trade systems; a stronger and more stable world economy; and special efforts to deal with the problems of the least developed countries.
The Assembly has recognized the need to strengthen implementation of the Strategy in the remaining years of the 1990s so as to ensure that the Decade will, indeed, be one of accelerated development, in particular in the developing countries, and of strengthened international economic cooperation (resolution 51/173 of 16 December 1996).
The international community proclaimed the first United Nations Development Decade in 1961 (resolution 1710 (XVI)), recognizing its responsibility to seek a better life for all peoples. Broad policies and goals were outlined to help increase economic growth in developing countries; such policies and goals have been reaffirmed, expanded and revised in succeeding development decades and accompanying international development strategies. The Second Decade was proclaimed by resolution 2626 (XXV) of 1970, and the Third Decade by resolution 35/56 of 1980.
United Nations Decade for the Eradication of Poverty (1997-2006)
Following the International Year for the Eradication of Poverty (1996), the General Assembly proclaimed the first United Nations Decade for the Eradication of Poverty, 1997-2006 (resolution 50/107 II of 20 December 1995). The Assembly called on donor countries to give greater priority to the eradication of poverty in their assistance programmes, and encouraged developing countries to mobilize resources for poverty eradication activities and programmes.
On 18 December 1997, the Assembly reiterated that the main goals of the Decade were the eradication of absolute poverty and the substantial reduction of overall poverty, through national action and international cooperation. The theme for the Decade is "Eradicating poverty is an ethical, social, political and economic imperative of humankind"; the theme for 1998 is "Poverty, human rights and development" (resolution 51/178 of 16 December 1996).
Second Transport and Communications Decade in Africa (1991-2000)
The General Assembly, by resolution 43/179 of 1988, declared the Second Transport and Communications Decade in Africa, 1991-2000, as recommended by the Economic and Social Council. A two-year preparatory period followed the end of the First Decade (1978-1988), and preceded the launching of the Second. By its decision 46/456, the Assembly endorsed Council resolution 1991/83, in which the Council had adopted the programme for the Second Decade.
The First Decade was proclaimed in 1977 by Assembly resolution 32/160. Its aim was to prepare and implement a global strategy for the development of transport and communications in Africa, and mobilize technical and financial resources. In evaluating the First Decade, the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) concluded that it had given a major boost to the development of transport and communications by equipping Africa with a policy and strategy, as well as institutions and mechanisms for their implementation.
Second Industrial Development Decade for Africa (1993-2002)
The General Assembly proclaimed the Second Industrial Development Decade for Africa (1991-2000) in 1989, on the recommendation of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) (resolution 44/237). In 1992, the Assembly adopted the programme for the Second Decade and adjusted the period to 1993-2002 (resolution 47/177). The First Decade (1981-1990) was proclaimed in 1980, on the recommendation of UNIDO (resolution 35/66 B).
In 1991, the Assembly adopted the United Nations New Agenda for the Development of Africa in the 1990s, by which the international community committed itself to assisting Africa in achieving accelerated growth and human-centred development (resolution 46/151). The implementation of the New Agenda was expected to contribute to realizing the goals of both the Industrial Development Decade and the Transport and Communications Decade.
On 24 November 1997 (resolution 52/20), the Assembly emphasized the need to implement the New Agenda, in particular: implementation of economic reforms; promotion of the private sector and foreign direct investment; intensification of the democratic process and the strengthening of civil society; the environment and development; resource flows; the solution of Africa's debt problems; trade facilitation and market access; diversification of African economies; improvement of physical and institutional infrastructure and social and human resource development; and women in development.
International Day of Cooperatives (first Saturday of July)
In 1992, the General Assembly proclaimed the first Saturday of July 1995 to be International Day of Cooperatives (resolution 47/90 of 16 December). The date marked the centenary of the International Cooperative Alliance, an umbrella group of organizations comprising 760 million members of cooperatives in 100 countries.
In 1994, recognizing that cooperatives were becoming an indispensable factor of economic and social development, the Assembly invited Governments, international organizations, specialized agencies and national and international cooperative organizations to observe the International Day every year starting from 1995 (resolution 49/155 of 23 December).
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (17 October)
In 1992, the General Assembly, welcoming the fact that certain non-governmental organizations, on the initiative of one of them (the French-based International Movement ATD Fourth World), had, in many States, observed 17 October as World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty, declared that date the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (resolution 47/196 of 22 December). The observance of the Day aims to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries, particularly in developing countries -- a need which has become a development priority in the 1990s.
World Development Information Day (24 October)
World Development Information Day was instituted by the General Assembly in 1972, to draw the attention of world public opinion to development problems and the need to strengthen international cooperation to solve them (resolution 3038(XXVII) of 19 December). The Assembly decided that the date for the Day should coincide in principle with United Nations Day, 24 October, which was also the date of the adoption, in 1970, of the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade. The Assembly felt that improving the dissemination of information and the mobilization of public opinion, particularly among young people, would lead to greater awareness of the problems of development, thus promoting efforts in the sphere of international cooperation for development.
Africa Industrialization Day (20 November)
Within the framework of the Second Industrial Development Decade for Africa, the General Assembly proclaimed 20 November as Africa Industrialization Day (resolution 44/237 of 22 December 1989). The observance of the Day is intended to mobilize the commitment of the international community to the industrialization of Africa.
Special session of the General Assembly on the implementation of the outcome
of the second United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat II) (2001)
On 18 December 1997 (resolution 52/190), the General Assembly decided to hold a special session in the year 2001 to review and appraise the implementation of the outcome of the second United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat II).
At the Conference, held in Istanbul in 1996, world leaders agreed on commitments for adequate shelter for all, better standards of living for their people, sustainable human development and the mobilization of financial resources.
World Habitat Day (First Monday of October)
Acting on a recommendation of the Commission on Human Settlements, the General Assembly, in 1985, designated the first Monday of October as World Habitat Day (resolution 40/202 A). The first observance of the Day, in 1986, marked the tenth anniversary of the first international conference on the issue -- Habitat: United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Vancouver,
Canada, 1976). In his message for World Habitat Day 1997, the Secretary-General observed that nearly half of the world's population lives in cities, and that "cities may be home to major problems, but they are also the places where solutions to some of the world's most complex and pressing questions are being worked out."
Second World Conference on Natural Disaster Reduction (2000)
In 1994, by resolution 49/22 A of 2 December, the General Assembly decided to convene, not later than the year 2000, a second world conference on natural disaster reduction to review the accomplishments of the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (1990-1999) and map a strategy for disaster-reduction activities into the twenty-first century. The first World Conference on Natural Disaster Reduction was held in Yokohama, Japan, in 1994.
International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (1990-1999)
In 1987, by resolution 42/169, the General Assembly designated the 1990s as a decade in which the international community, under United Nations auspices, would pay special attention to fostering international cooperation in the field of natural disaster reduction. It proclaimed in 1989 the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction, beginning on 1 January 1990, and adopted an International Framework of Action for the Decade (resolution 44/236 of 22 December).
The Decade's aim is to reduce, through concerted international action, especially in developing countries, loss of life, damage, and social and economic disruption caused by natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods. Among its goals are: to improve the capacity of countries to mitigate the effects of natural disasters, including by establishing early-warning systems; to foster scientific and engineering knowledge in order to reduce loss of life and property; and to develop measures for assessing, predicting, preventing and mitigating natural disasters through technical assistance, technology transfer, demonstration projects, education and training. The Geneva-based secretariat for the Decade is under the authority of the Office of the Emergency Relief Coordinator.
The Assembly has decided to mark the ending of the Decade with the convening of an event which would facilitate the integration of disaster reduction into the efforts for sustainable development and environmental protection (resolution 50/117 A of 20 December 1995).
International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction
(Second Wednesday of October)
Within the framework of the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction, the General Assembly designated the second Wednesday of October as International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction, to be observed annually during the Decade (resolution 44/236).
World Conference on Racism and Racial Discrimination,
Xenophobia and Related Intolerance (2001)
The Assembly decided on 12 December 1997 to convene a world conference on racism and racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance no later than the year 2001, its size, duration and other cost factors to be determined with due regard for economy. The objectives of the Conference include: to review progress made in the fight against racism and racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and reappraise obstacles to further progress; to consider ways and means to better ensure the application of existing standards and the implementation of existing instruments to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; to increase the level of awareness; and to formulate recommendations for action-oriented measures to combat all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance (resolution 52/111.) The Commission on Human Rights will act as the preparatory committee. Governments, international and regional organizations, non-governmental organizations and other human rights mechanisms were requested to assist the preparatory committee and to participate in the conference.
World Conferences to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination were held in Geneva in 1978 and 1983.
Third Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination (1993-2003)
On 20 December 1993, the General Assembly proclaimed the Third Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination, beginning in 1993, and adopted the Programme of Action for it (resolution 48/91). The Assembly urged Governments to take measures to combat new forms of racism -- such as xenophobia and related intolerance; discrimination based on culture, nationality, religion or language; and racism resulting from official doctrines of racial superiority or exclusivity, such as ethnic cleansing.
The first Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination was proclaimed in 1973, and the Second Decade to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination in 1983.
Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling
against Racism and Racial Discrimination
(Beginning on 21 March)
As part of its programme for the first Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination, the General Assembly in 1979 called for the observance by all States of a Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination, beginning on 21 March (resolution 34/24).
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
(21 March)
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid "pass laws". Proclaiming the International Day in 1966, the General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination (resolution 2142 (XXI)).
United Nations Decade for Human Rights Education (1995-2004)
On 12 December 1997, the General Assembly urged Governments to contribute further to implementing the Plan of Action for the United Nations Decade for Human Rights Education, in particular by establishing broadly representative national committees and training centres for human rights education (resolution 52/127).
The General Assembly proclaimed the Decade on 23 December 1994, to begin on 1 January 1995, and welcomed the Plan of Action for the Decade submitted by the Secretary-General (resolution 49/184). The Assembly stated that human rights education should be a lifelong process, by which people learn respect for the dignity of others. Governments were called upon to direct education towards the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Governmental and non-governmental educational agencies were urged to establish programmes of human rights education. The coordinator for the implementation of the Plan of Action is the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Fiftieth Anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights (1998)
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the General Assembly on 10 December 1948. To celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration, the Assembly has urged Governments to implement national programmes and to ensure participation by all strata of civil society, including public administrations, national institutions, non-governmental organizations and academic circles, thereby bringing the letter and spirit of the Declaration to the awareness of all. Governments and other actors have been encouraged to develop education and information programmes, in particular grass-roots initiatives promoting, through education and the media, a culture of human rights (resolution 52/117 of 12 December 1997). On 10 December 1998, the Assembly will convene a one-day ceremonial meeting to celebrate the anniversary (resolution 51/88 of 12 December 1996).
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture (26 June)
On 12 December 1997, the Assembly, in preparing for the fiftieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and on the recommendation of the Economic and Social Council (decision 1997/251 of 22 July 1997) proclaimed 26 June United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The Day aims at the eradication of torture and the effective functioning of the 1984 Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (resolution 52/149).
International Day for Tolerance (16 November)
On 12 December 1996, the General Assembly invited Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November, with activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public (resolution 51/95). This action came on the wake of the United Nations Year for Tolerance, 1995, proclaimed by the Assembly on 20 December 1993 (resolution 48/126). The Year had been proclaimed on the initiative of the General Conference of UNESCO; on 16 November 1995, the UNESCO member States had adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action for the Year.
Human Rights Day (10 December)
All States and interested organizations were invited by the General Assembly in 1950 to observe 10 December as Human Rights Day (resolution 423 (V)). The Day marks the anniversary of the Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery (2 December)
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, 2 December, recalls the date of the adoption, by the General Assembly, of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of Others (resolution 317(IV) of 2 December 1949). Observing the Day in 1997, the Secretary-General remarked that "women and children are particularly vulnerable to all forms of slavery, including such reprehensible practices as forced labour and prostitution, as well as the sale and exploitation of children."
Plenary Review of the General Assembly on the implementation of the Nairobi
Forward-looking Strategies for the Advancement of Women
and the Beijing Platform for Action (2000)
On 12 December 1997, the Assembly decided to convene in 2000 a high-level plenary review to appraise and assess the progress achieved in the implementation of the Nairobi Forward-looking Strategies for the Advancement of Women and the Beijing Platform for Action (resolution 52/100). The Secretary-General was requested to report on the possibility of convening the review: at the start of the session of the General Assembly in 2000; within the framework of the proposed millennium Assembly; following the annual session of the Commission on the Status of Women; or as a special session of the General Assembly. The Commission on the Status of Women, which will serve as the preparatory committee for the review, was invited to give attention to arrangements for the involvement and participation of non-governmental organizations.
The Forward-Looking Strategies, a blueprint for action to advance the status of women everywhere, were adopted at the 1985 World Conference on women, held in Nairobi. The Platform for Action was adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women, held in Beijing in 1995.
United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace (8 March)
On 16 December 1977, the General Assembly invited States to proclaim, in accordance with their historical and national traditions and customs, any day of the year as United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace. States were called upon to contribute to creating favourable conditions for the elimination of discrimination against women and for their full and equal participation in social development (resolution 32/142). That action came on the wake of the International Women's Year (1975) and the United Nations Decade for Women (1976-1985), both proclaimed by the Assembly.
The United Nations began observing International Women's Day, 8 March, in 1975 -- the International Women's Year. Observing the Day in 1997, the Secretary-General drew attention to the role of women in questions of international peace and security, pledged to "call upon women in increasing numbers for their unique skills in promoting environments conducive to stability and peace," and encouraged Member States "to nominate women candidates to serve as Special Representatives or Special Envoys and in other assignments in preventive diplomacy and peacemaking."
Special session of the General Assembly to review the achievement
of the goals of the World Summit for Children (2001)
The General Assembly has decided to convene a special session in 2001 to review the achievement of the goals of the World Summit for Children (resolution 51/186 of 16 December 1996). The Summit, held in New York in 1990, adopted a World Declaration and a Plan of Action setting goals for the development, protection and survival of children, in areas such as health, nutrition and education. The Summit stressed the need for improved protection of children in especially difficult circumstances, including refugee children.
International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression (4 June)
On 19 August 1982, at its emergency special session on the question of Palestine, the General Assembly, "appalled at the great number of innocent Palestinian and Lebanese children victims of Israel's acts of aggression", decided to commemorate 4 June of each year as the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression (resolution ES-7/8).
Universal Children's Day (20 November, varies)
The General Assembly recommended in 1954 (resolution 836 (IX)) that all countries institute a Universal Children's Day, to be observed as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children and of activity devoted to promoting the welfare of the world's children. It suggested to Government that the Day be observed on the date which each considers appropriate. The date of 20 November marks the day in which the Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989.
International Decade of the World's Indigenous People (1994-2004)
In 1990, the General Assembly proclaimed 1993 the International Year of the World's Indigenous People (resolution 45/164). The Year, having its theme "Indigenous people: a new partnership", helped focus world attention on the problems faced by indigenous communities.
Subsequently, on the recommendation of the World Conference on Human Rights (Vienna, 1993), the General Assembly proclaimed in 1993 the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People, starting on 10 December 1994 (resolution 48/163). It adopted the Programme of Activities for the Decade in 1995 (resolution 50/157).
On 12 December 1997, the Assembly reaffirmed as a major objective of the Decade the adoption of a declaration on the rights of indigenous people. It reaffirmed that among the objectives of the Decade is the possible establishment of a permanent United Nations forum for indigenous people. It also appointed as Coordinator of the Decade the High Commissioner for Human Rights (resolution 52/108). The theme of the Decade is "Indigenous people: Partnership in action".
International Day of the World's Indigenous People (9 August)
On 23 December 1994, the General Assembly decided that the International Day of the World's Indigenous People shall be observed on 9 August every year during the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People (resolution 49/214). The date marks the day of the first meeting, in 1992, of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Subcommission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities.
International Day of Disabled Persons (3 December)
In 1992, at the conclusion of the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983-1992), the General Assembly proclaimed 3 December as the International Day of Disabled Persons (resolution 47/3). The Decade had been a period of raising awareness and enacting measures to improve the situation of persons with disabilities and to provide them with equal opportunities. Subsequently, the Assembly appealed to Member States to highlight the observance of the International Day in order to further integrate people with disabilities into society (resolution 47/88).
Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons (1993-2002)
The Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons (1993-2002) is intended to give fresh impetus to the implementation of the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons in the region of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). It is also meant to strengthen regional cooperation in achieving the goals of the World Programme.
The Decade was proclaimed on 23 April 1992 by ESCAP resolution 48/3, and endorsed by the General Assembly on 16 December 1992 (resolution 47/88).
International Year of Older Persons (1999)
On 12 December 1997, the General Assembly called on the Secretary-General to launch the International Year of Older Persons on 1 October 1998 -- the International Day of Older Persons (resolution 52/80). It encouraged States, the United Nations system and other actors to take advantage of the Year so as to increase awareness of the challenge of the demographic ageing of societies, the individual and social needs of older persons, their contribution to society, and the need for a change in attitude towards older persons.
The Assembly had proclaimed the Year in 1992, "in recognition of humanity's demographic coming of age and the promise it holds for maturing attitudes and capabilities in social, economic, cultural and spiritual undertakings, not least for global peace and development in the next century" (resolution 47/5). The Year's theme is "A society for all ages".
International Day of Older Persons (1 October)
In designating 1 October as the International Day for the Elderly (resolution 45/106 of 14 December 1990), the General Assembly appealed for contributions to the Trust Fund for Ageing, which supports projects in developing countries that benefit the aged. The Fund was established as part of the implementation of the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, adopted at the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing. In further implementing the International Plan of Action, the Assembly, in 1992, adopted a set of global targets on ageing for the year 2001 as a practical strategy for countries to follow in providing for the needs of the elderly (resolution 47/86).
By resolution 50/141 of 21 December 1995, the Assembly redesignated the Day as the International Day of Older Persons, in conformity with the 1991 United Nations Principles for Older Persons (resolution 46/91, annex).
Special session of the General Assembly on Narcotic Drugs (1998)
On 12 December 1997, the General Assembly decided to hold from 8 to 10 June 1998 a special session devoted to the fight against the illicit production, sale, demand, traffic and distribution of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (resolution 52/92 IV).
The special session will propose new strategies and specific measures to strengthen international cooperation in addressing the problem. It will be funded through the United Nations regular budget, bearing in mind the need to keep financial costs to a minimum. The Assembly recognized the need for involving non-governmental organizations in preparing for and contributing to the session.
The Commission on Narcotic Drugs is the preparatory body for the special session. The Commission will meet as the special session's preparatory body in Vienna from 16 to 20 March 1988.
United Nations Decade against Drug Abuse (1991-2000)
The United Nations Decade against Drug Abuse (1991-2000) was proclaimed by the General Assembly in February 1990 (resolution S-17/2). Also adopted was a Global Programme of Action to fight
illegal drugs on all levels, which focused on international cooperation against illicit production, supply, demand and trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
On 12 December 1997, the Assembly reaffirmed the importance of achieving the objectives of the Decade, under the theme "A global response to a global challenge", by Member States, the United Nations International Drug Control Programme and the United Nations system (resolution 52/92 II).
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (26 June)
The General Assembly in 1987 decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse. It took that action on 7 December 1987 (resolution 42/112), following a recommendation of the 1987 International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which, on 26 June, had adopted the Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Outline of Future Activities in Drug Abuse Control.
On 23 February 1990, at a special session on drug abuse, the Assembly adopted a Global Programme of Action to combat illegal drugs, and stated that the International Day was to be observed as part of the effort to raise public awareness about fighting drug abuse and to promote preventive measures (resolution S-17/2, annex).
Tenth United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime
and Treatment of Offenders (2000)
The General Assembly decided on 12 December 1997 to hold the Tenth United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and Treatment of Offenders in 2000. The provisional agenda includes the issues of promoting the rule of law and strengthening the criminal justice system; international cooperation in combating transnational crime: new challenges in the twenty-first century; effective crime prevention: keeping pace with new development; and offenders and victims: accountability and fairness in the justice process (resolution 52/91). Within the framework of the Congress, workshops will be held on combating corruption, computer-related crimes, community involvement in crime prevention, and women in the criminal justice system.
The Assembly invited national correspondents in the field of crime prevention, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations in consultative status with ECOSOC to become involved in the preparations for the Congress. The preparatory body for the Congress is the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, while its secretariat is the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Division.
United Nations Diplomatic Conference of Plenipotentiaries
on the Establishment of an International Criminal Court (1998)
The diplomatic Conference of Plenipotentiaries on finalizing and adopting a convention on the establishment of an International Criminal Court will be held in Rome from 15 June to 17 July 1998, at the invitation of Italy. This was decided by the General Assembly by resolution 52/160 of 15 December 1997. Non-governmental organizations accredited by the Preparatory Committee were invited to participate in the Conference. The Preparatory Committee will hold its sixth session in New York from 16 March to 3 April 1998.
United Nations Decade of International Law (1990-1999)
On 15 December 1997 (resolution 52/153), the General Assembly expressed its appreciation to States and international organizations and institutions that had undertaken activities to implement the programme of activities for the Decade's final term (1997-1999). The Programme aims at promoting respect for international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes, including resort to the International Court of Justice. It encourages the progressive development and codification of international law, as well as its teaching, study, dissemination and appreciation.
In declaring, in 1989, the United Nations Decade of International Law (1990-1999), the Assembly outlined its main purposes as promoting acceptance of and respect for principles of international law; promoting means and methods for the peaceful settlement of disputes between States, including resort to and full respect for the International Court of Justice; encouraging the progressive development of international law and its codification; and encouraging the teaching, study, dissemination and wider appreciation of international law (resolution 44/23). The Assembly will examine the closing of the Decade at its 1999 regular session.
Centennial of the First International Peace Conference (1999)
The first International Peace Conference was held in 1899, on the initiative of Russia, in The Hague, the Netherlands. The Assembly decided to mark the centennial in 1999 (resolution 51/159 of 16 December 1996), and on 15 December 1997 welcomed the Programme of Action for the centennial, presented by the Netherlands and the Russian Federation on the basis of consultations with Member States, the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the International Committee of the Red Cross and non-governmental organizations. States were encouraged to participate in the activities set out in the Programme of Action (resolution 52/154).
World Press Freedom Day (3 May)
The General Assembly on 20 December 1993 declared 3 May as World Press Freedom Day (decision 48/432). This action stemmed from the General Conference of UNESCO, which by a 1991 resolution on "Promotion of press freedom in the world", had recognized that a free, pluralistic and independent press was an essential component of any democratic society. The General Conference had transmitted to the General Assembly the wish of UNESCO member States to have 3 May declared "International Press Freedom Day".
That date was chosen to commemorate the Windhoek Declaration on Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press, adopted on 3 May 1991 by the Seminar on Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press, organized by UNESCO and the United Nations in Windhoek, Namibia.
International Day of Families (15 May)
In 1993, the General Assembly decided that, beginning in 1994, 15 May of every year shall be observed as the International Day of Families (resolution 47/237 of 20 September). In 1989, by resolution 44/82, the Assembly had proclaimed 1994 the International Year of the Family, to increase awareness of family issues and improve the institutional capability of nations to tackle serious family-related problems with comprehensive policies.
World Population Day (11 July)
In 1989, the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recommended that 11 July be observed by the international community as World Population Day. An outgrowth of the Day of Five Billion, celebrated on 11 July 1987, the Day seeks to focus attention on the urgency and importance of population issues, particularly in the context of overall development plans and programmes, and the need to find solutions for these issues. In mid-1997, world population was 5.8 billion, and was growing by about 80 million persons per year. The United Nations estimates there will be between 7.7 billion and 11.1 billion people in 2050, with 9.4 billion the most likely projection.
World Food Day (16 October)
The aim of World Food Day, proclaimed in 1979 by the Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. The Day marks the date of the founding of FAO in 1945. In 1980, the General Assembly endorsed observance of the Day in consideration of the fact that "food is a requisite for human survival and well-being and a fundamental human necessity" (resolution 35/70 of 5 December).
United Nations Day (24 October)
The anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter -- 24 October 1945 -- has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948. It has traditionally been marked throughout the world by meetings, discussions and exhibits on the achievements and goals of the Organization. In 1971, the General Assembly recommended that it should be observed as a public holiday by Member States (resolution 2782 (XXVI)).
Marking the celebration of the Day in 1997, the Secretary-General stated that the United Nations "will seek out and develop new partnerships, with individual men and women, with non-governmental organizations, with the private sector and with peoples at large... There is a new-found realization that global threats and opportunities alike require concerted action across borders and beyond traditional categories. They require the response of one world."
World Television Day (21 November)
On 17 December 1996, the General Assembly proclaimed 21 November as World Television Day, commemorating the date on which, in 1996, the first World Television Forum was held at the United Nations. Member States were invited to observe the Day by encouraging global exchanges of television programmes focusing on issues such as peace, security, economic and social development, and the enhancement of cultural exchanges (resolution 51/205).
World AIDS Day (1 December)
The General Assembly in 1988 stated its deep concern about the pandemic proportions of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Noting that the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared 1 December 1988 World AIDS Day, the Assembly stressed the importance of the observance of that occasion (resolution 43/15). Today, some 30 million people are living with HIV/AIDS, including 1 million children under 15. In his message for World AIDS Day 1997, the Secretary-General stressed the role of the Joint United Nations Programme on AIDS, "a joint venture pooling the resources of six United Nations organizations with expertise ranging from health care to economic development. Grass-roots organizations are involved. So is the private sector. Such partnerships are vital for an effective, expanded response."
International Civil Aviation Day (7 December)
On 6 December 1996, the General Assembly proclaimed 7 December as International Civil Aviation Day, and urged Governments as well as national, regional, international and intergovernmental organizations to take appropriate steps to observe it (resolution 51/33). The Day had been declared in 1992 by the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, to highlight and advance the benefits of international civil aviation. Observation of the Day started on 7 December 1994 -- the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, which established ICAO.
Other International Days
Other international days observed throughout the United Nations system include:
World Meteorological Day (23 March); World Health Day (7 April); World Book and Copyright Day (23 April); World Telecommunication Day (17 May); World No-Tobacco Day (31 May); International Literacy Day (8 September); World Maritime Day (during the last week in September); and World Post Day (9 October).
Conferences
Special Sessions of the General Assembly
International Decades and Years
Annual Days and Weeks