October 10th, 2026

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day is observed on the second Saturday of October to raise awareness of the need for palliative care and to build support for it around the world. Organized by the Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance (WHPCA), it focuses on care that eases pain and other symptoms and supports the emotional, social, and spiritual needs of people with serious or life-limiting illness, along with their families. Palliative care can begin at any stage of an illness and works alongside treatment, while hospice care focuses on comfort near the end of life. Millions of people who could benefit still have no access to this kind of care, so hospices, hospitals, volunteers, and community groups mark the day with events, remembrance activities, and campaigns that call on governments to make palliative care part of every health system.

World Mental Health Day is observed to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. This day provides an opportunity for stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide. Events on this day often include educational seminars, public awareness campaigns, and community events focused on promoting mental health and well-being, reducing stigma, and providing support for those struggling with mental health issues. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health in overall health, the need for accessible mental health services, and the importance of self-care and support networks. It's a day to reaffirm commitment to improving mental health care and understanding for people all over the world.

World Day Against the Death Penalty is observed on October 10 by organizations and individuals who oppose capital punishment and call for its abolition worldwide. It was launched by the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, an alliance of human rights groups, bar associations, trade unions, and local authorities, and is marked every year with a theme chosen by the coalition. Supporters argue that the death penalty violates the right to life, cannot be undone if a mistake is made, and has not been shown to be more effective than other punishments at deterring crime. Most countries have now abolished it in law or in practice, but it is still used in some places, including in the United States, where practice differs from state to state. Events include vigils, public talks, exhibitions, film screenings, and letter-writing campaigns.