In 1975 the UN began to celebrate 8 March as International Women’s Day. In 1977 the General Assembly adopted a resolution which proclaimed a United Nations “Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace,” as International Women’s Day is officially called. The UN observes this day every year on 8 March and usually the Secretary-General delivers a special message. 

"They shall look on Him whom they have pierced" (Jn 19:37). This is the biblical theme that this year guides our Lenten reflection. Lent is a favourable time to learn to stay with Mary and John, the beloved disciple, close to Him who on the Cross, consummated for all mankind the sacrifice of His life (cf. Jn 19:25).

To commemorate the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (October 17) and the First Decade for the Eradication of Poverty (1997-2006), the United Nations invites children from around the world to participate in an art competition to design a Unites Nations stamp on the theme “We can end poverty”. Children between 5-15 years are eligible. The deadline to send in designs is 30 June 2007. For more information about the competition and its rules, see UN Children's Art Competition. 

In November 2005, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution A/RES/60/7 (clicking will download a PDF) designating January 27 of each year as the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust. This year’s celebration at the UN will take place on Monday, January 29.

January 1st is the day dedicated to peace, first by Pope Paul VI and subsequently accompanied by an annual message from the Holy Father. For 2007, Pope Benedict XVI has chosen as the theme... In Truth, Peace.