Each year on February 27, World NGO Day is observed across the globe to make the celebrations for the work and contribution done by various NGOs.
Each year, a fresh theme is chosen for World NGO Day. The theme of this year revolves around the role and influence of NGOs in advancing human rights and achieving sustainable development goals.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) throughout the world are celebrating World NGO Day today to recognize their humanitarian efforts. NGOs are non-profit organizations that support the causes of many humane concerns impacting people, animals, and communities. They offer help in the greatest times of need in areas including health, education, and jobs. More than 89 nations across six continents mark
World NGO Day 2023: Non-governmental organizations play a great role in addressing social issues and helping those in need. Read below why this day is celebrated and its importance in curbing societal problems across the globe.
This special day aims to inspire people to become more actively involved within NGOs and build a greater symbiosis between NGOs and private-public sectors. This day celebrates and honors every non-governmental organization that comes forward and makes efforts to curb societal problems.
History
The Baltic Sea NGO Forum initially proposed World NGO Day in 2010, and it was approved in 2012. At first, only nations that participated in the forum—such as Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, and others—recognized the day.
But in 2014, when representatives from the European Union and the United Nations visited the event, this heightened its “power” and started to be observed in other nations.
Significance of World NGO Day 2023 NGOs are highly important in our society nowadays. They assist in bridging the gap created by governmental organizations in issues relating to human rights, children’s rights, social and environmental issues, and animal welfare. Therefore, World NGO Day attempts to motivate individuals to get more actively involved in NGOs (charities, NPOs, and CSOs) and to nurture better synergy between NGOs and both the public and commercial sectors.
The purpose of the celebration is to acknowledge, honor, and celebrate the essential impact that these autonomous groups have made on the globe.
The first international World NGO Day event was held on February 27, 2014, in Helsinki, Finland.
Some Great Quotes About NGOs from Famous People
- “NGOs are the lifeblood of our society, working tirelessly to improve the lives of those most in need.” – Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations
- “NGOs are the conscience of the world.” – Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa
- “The work of NGOs is essential to building a just, equitable, and sustainable world.” – Kumi Naidoo, former Secretary-General of Amnesty International
- “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead, American cultural anthropologist
- “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi, Indian independence leader
- “NGOs are a vital force for social progress, mobilizing communities, and bringing about meaningful change.” – Graca Machel, Mozambican politician and humanitarian
- “NGOs play a critical role in promoting human rights, defending the marginalized, and creating a more just and equitable society.” – Kailash Satyarthi, Indian children’s rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.