Current Affairs - Important Days

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed annually on May 29. It serves as a tribute to the bravery and dedication of UN peacekeepers who work in conflict zones worldwide, often risking and sacrificing their lives for global peace and stability. The day also honours those who have fallen in the line of duty, such as Brigadier General Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh from India, who were posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal in 2024. With the 2025 theme, “The Future of Peacekeeping,” the observance reflects the evolving nature of peacekeeping operations and the global commitment to adapting to new security challenges.

World Hunger Day is observed every year on May 28 to raise global awareness about hunger and food insecurity, affecting over 800 million people worldwide. Established by The Hunger Project in 2011, this day focuses on sustainable, community-empowering solutions rather than temporary relief. It emphasizes building resilient food systems, supporting smallholder farmers, and promoting climate-resilient agriculture to achieve long-term food security and end hunger. The observance serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to advocate for systemic change and sustainable development aligned with the UN’s Zero Hunger goal.

Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on May 28 to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. The date was chosen symbolically, with May being the 5th month, representing the average five-day duration of menstruation, and 28 representing the average menstrual cycle length in days. Since its inception in 2014 by the NGO WASH United, this day highlights the importance of breaking stigma, promoting education, and improving access to menstrual products and hygiene infrastructure. It aims to create a #PeriodFriendlyWorld where menstruation is normalized and does not hinder anyone’s potential.

World Thyroid Day is observed each year on May 25 to raise awareness about thyroid-related diseases and the importance of thyroid health. The day was officially established during the annual general meeting of the Thyroid Federation International in September 2007 and was first celebrated in 2008. It serves as a platform for healthcare professionals and the public to discuss advances in diagnosis and treatment. The 2025 theme, “Thyroid Disease and Artificial Intelligence,” highlights how emerging technologies are transforming the detection and management of thyroid disorders, bringing global attention to innovative healthcare approaches.

The United Nations General Assembly, through Resolution A/RES/78/281 in 2024, officially declared May 25 as World Football Day to be observed annually. This date holds historical significance as it marks the opening of the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, which was the first Olympic football tournament organized by FIFA. The observance is meant to celebrate the unifying power of football across cultures and nations. FIFA also aligns this day with World Football Week, running from May 21 to 25, and adopts themes like "Together, We Are Stronger" to emphasize the sport's role in promoting inclusion and global unity.