World NGO Day is observed every year on February 27 to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) worldwide. The day highlights the vital role of NGOs in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, while promoting humanitarian efforts across various sectors.
About World NGO Day
History & Founding Idea
- First Recognized: 2010
- First Celebrated: 27 February 2014, with support from the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), and other global bodies.
- Founded by: Marcis Liors Skadmanis, a Latvian-British social entrepreneur and philanthropist.
- Purpose: To honor, promote, and highlight the crucial role of NGOs in driving social change and improving communities worldwide.
Observance & Activities
- Governments, businesses, and civil society organizations organize discussions, awareness campaigns, and events.
- Focuses on challenges faced by NGOs, including funding limitations, policy restrictions, and operational difficulties.
- Encourages collaboration between NGOs, governments, and businesses to drive sustainable development.
World NGO Day 2025 Theme: “Empowering Grassroots Movements for a Sustainable Future”
- Focus: Recognizing the importance of local NGOs in fostering sustainable development and creating lasting societal impact.
- Theme Selection: Aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing pressing global issues.
Significance of World NGO Day 2025
- Recognizing NGO Contributions in key areas:
- Humanitarian aid
- Education & Healthcare
- Human Rights Advocacy
- Environmental Conservation
- Awareness & Challenges:
- Raises awareness about funding challenges, policy restrictions, and operational hurdles faced by NGOs.
- Promotes collaborative efforts to enhance NGO effectiveness and impact.
- Encouraging Public Participation:
- Volunteering
- Donations & Fundraising
- Advocacy & Policy Support
By promoting collaboration between NGOs, governments, businesses, and communities, World NGO Day fosters collective efforts to create a better, more sustainable world.