World Science Day observed today

Every year on November 10, World Science Day for Peace and Development is observed across the globe. The day is celebrated to highlight the vital role of science in promoting peace, sustainable development, and the welfare of all. The initiative is jointly organized by UNESCO and the International Science Council. This year’s theme is “Trust, Transformation, and the Future: The Science We Need for 2050.”

The idea of observing this day originated at the World Conference on Science held in Budapest, Hungary, in 1999. At that time, UNESCO and the International Science Council jointly declared a set of principles regarding science and the use of scientific knowledge. The day was later declared to uphold that commitment. UNESCO officially proclaimed World Science Day in 2001. Since then, global initiatives, programs, and funding have been encouraged through this observance to strengthen science as the foundation of progress.

The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2024–2033 as the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development. In this context, the importance of the day has increased further. To mark the occasion this year, UNESCO organized the 43rd General Conference in Uzbekistan. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said that science is essential for establishing peace. It provides practical and sustainable solutions to global challenges. By addressing issues such as climate crises, pandemics, and resource shortages, science can help reduce the root causes of many conflicts. On this day, UNESCO and the International Science Council call on all members, partners, and collaborators to work together.

The main objective of the day is to raise public awareness about the role of science in building peaceful and sustainable societies, as well as to promote national and international solidarity through knowledge sharing and scientific cooperation. According to UNESCO, science reveals the potential for prosperity through human creativity and innovation. It helps unite societies and make them more equal and prosperous for all.

UNESCO’s Special Envoy Sumaya bint El Hassan said, “We all believe in the power of knowledge creation. Through innovation, we can move toward progress. We have realized how science can bring us together for a common purpose. Science can make our society more equal and prosperous. It helps us understand where we stand and where we can go in the future. Science is the hope for our bright and just future.”

Source: UNESCO and International Science Council

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