October 24th, 2027

Global Media and Information Literacy Week is an annual UNESCO-led observance held in the last week of October, from October 24 to 31. It promotes the skills people need to find, evaluate, and responsibly share information in the digital age, including recognizing misinformation, understanding how media works, and protecting privacy and rights online. Schools, libraries, media organizations, and community groups mark the week with workshops, discussions, and educational campaigns. The week highlights that media and information literacy is a key part of active citizenship, free expression, and trust in the information that shapes our decisions.

United Nations Day, observed on October 24, marks the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945, the date the United Nations officially came into existence. The General Assembly later declared the day an annual observance dedicated to making the aims and achievements of the organization known to people around the world. Communities mark it with flag displays, concerts, school programs, and discussions about peace, human rights, and sustainable development. It is a day to reflect on international cooperation and on how countries can work together to address challenges such as conflict, poverty, and climate change.

Disarmament Week is observed each year from October 24 to 30, beginning on the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. It was called for in 1978 by the first UN General Assembly special session devoted to disarmament, in order to promote the aims of arms control and disarmament and to build public understanding of the dangers of the arms race. Governments, schools, and civil society organizations mark the week with lectures, exhibitions, and educational events. It is a reminder that reducing weapons, from nuclear arsenals to small arms, is closely tied to lasting peace and security.

World Development Information Day is observed on October 24 to draw the attention of the world to development problems and the need for stronger international cooperation to solve them. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972. The day encourages governments, media, and the public to share data and stories about issues such as poverty, education, health, and sustainable growth. Reliable information helps people and policymakers make informed decisions and supports progress toward global development goals.

World Polio Day is observed on October 24 to raise awareness of polio and to support the global effort to eradicate it. Established by Rotary International in honor of Jonas Salk, who led the team that developed the first polio vaccine, the day highlights the progress of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, a partnership launched in 1988 by the World Health Organization, Rotary, UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Since then, wild poliovirus cases have fallen by more than 99 percent, and the disease has been eliminated from most of the world. Polio is a highly contagious viral illness that mainly affects young children and can cause paralysis, but it can be prevented with vaccination. Rotary clubs, health workers, and volunteers mark the day with fundraising events, vaccination drives, and educational programs. As long as the virus exists anywhere, it remains a threat everywhere, which is why keeping children vaccinated and funding eradication work still matters.