|
Welcome
International Days and major international conferences reflect a growing sense that we are part of One Humanity and One Life. On these occasions there is a special opportunity to serve in the creation of a world that reflects this spirit of Oneness in all its diversity.
As meditators we can symbolically stand together with all those actively working to create right human relations, and invoke the aid of the Forces of Light in support of these events.
Sustainable Development Goals & Climate Change
These International Days and events reflect important themes in the mobilization of energies to:
- Build right relations in the world by addressing the causes of serious problems of poverty, inequality and environmental degradation through practical actions to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030
- engaging people of goodwill all over the world in a common movement.
2026 United Nations International Years
Silence at the United Nations
The Spiritual Caucus at the United Nations gathers subjectively and online(September - June) on the third Thursday every month for 30 minutes of silence followed by 30 minutes of dialogue, sharing insights and exploring ways to use an inner focus in service of the work of the UN.
On the first Thursday of the month, from October to June, Caucus members and others gather in the Meditation Room at the UN HQ in New York, from 12:30 – 1:00 pm. We spend 10-30 minutes in silence together, followed by optional conversation in the nearby cafe afterwards.
Please link in from wherever you are. More information at: http://www.spiritualcaucusun.org/
In November you are invited to gather in the UN Meditation Room for 10 - 30 minutes from 12.00 - 12.45 on November 5, and to join an online virtual gathering, including 30 minutes of silence, on Thursday, November 19, from 2.00- 3.15 pm EDT with a particular focus on supporting the UN. Write for details to spiritualcaucusun@gmail.com.
|
|
|
November Please Hold These Events in the Light
November 1 - 4
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting - St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.
Theme 2026: Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is a biennial summit bringing together Heads of Government, Ministers, and representatives from business, civil society, and youth organisations from across the 54 countries in the Commonwealth of Nations.
The independent nations of todays Commonwealth are home to 2.7 billion people, and include both advanced economies and developing countries. 33 of our members are small states, including many island nations.
chogm26.gov.ag
thecommonwealth.org
November 2 - 4
Commonwealth People's Forum - Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda.
The People’s Forum has been a central part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) for decades, providing a unique opportunity for Commonwealth citizens to engage directly with each other; to celebrate shared values and diverse cultures; to interact with leaders, and to participate in shaping both policy and practice. The People’s Forum 2026 is organised by the Commonwealth Foundation in close collaboration with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. It will focus on the challenges and opportunities in delivering people-centered governance across the Commonwealth, exploring some of the most urgent issues of our time—climate justice, economic inclusion and freedom of expression—and centering the plight of small and vulnerable states, women and young people.
commonwealthfoundation.com
November 4 - 5
19th International Forum on Ecological Civilization, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Forum will bring together scholars, practitioners, entrepreneurs, educators, and emerging leaders from around the world to explore ideas and practices for building a more ecological civilization. This year’s gathering will emphasize the interconnections among ecological civilization, ecological enterprise, and inner ecology, while fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration toward a more just, sustainable, and life-affirming future.
This annual event is jointly organised by a number of China-oriented groups including the Institute for Post-Modern Development of China (USA), the The China Ecological Civilization Research and Promotion Association (PRC), the Center for Process Studies (USA), the China Green Development Associaton (PRC) and the Cobb Institute (USA).
Ecological Civilization moves away from modern industrial civilization. The signs of the times have demonstrated that it will be the next stage of human development. [The Forum] seeks to further promote ecological civilization through research and practice and effectively address current ecological crises facing the global community.
claremontecoforum.org
November 1 - 19
19 Days of Activism for Prevention of Abuse and Violence against Children & Youth
This global campaign leading up to World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse, is sponsored by a coalition of international organizations and networks.
We had a Dream … and now we have a Plan … with the Sustainable Development Goals – Agenda 2030, especially with SDG Target 16.2 “End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence and torture against children by 2030.”
www.woman.ch - 2026 campaign
November 2
International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists
2026 Theme: Threats Evolve. Impunity Endures.
Between 2006 and 2025, over 1,600 journalists have been killed around the world, with close to 6 out of 7 cases of these killings remaining judicially unresolved, according to the UNESCO Observatory of Killed Journalists. Impunity leads to more killings and is often a symptom of worsening conflict and the breakdown of law and judicial systems. UNESCO is concerned that impunity damages whole societies by covering up serious human rights abuses, corruption, and crime. Governments, civil society, the media, and everyone concerned to uphold the rule of law are being asked to join in the global efforts to end impunity.
www.un.org/en/
en.unesco.org
November 5
World Tsunami Awareness Day
2026 theme: Be Tsunami Ready: Resilience starts with you.
Tsunamis may strike without warning, but their impact can be devastating. As coastal populations grow and sea levels rise, millions remain exposed to a threat that can claim lives and destroy livelihoods within minutes. Yet knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can make the difference between life and death.
www.un.org/
tsunamiday.undrr.org
November 6
International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict
In earlier times it was not uncommon for the environment to be damaged in warfare - crops were destroyed, water supplies poisoned and forests set alight. Modern technologies mean that environmental damage from wars can be far more serious and the consequences more long-term. The damage often extends beyond the limits of national territories and the present generation.
This Day reminds us that it is not only people who suffer in times of war. As universal ethics condition the conscience of humanity, there is a growing sense of responsibility for the well-being of all life on Earth: minerals, plants & animals.
www.un.org/
November 6 - 9
Falling Walls Science Summit 2026, Berlin, Germany
Since 2009, the Falling Walls Science Summit has united the world’s greatest minds to break down barriers in science and innovation. We bring together global science leaders, business pioneers, and public sector visionaries to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and shape the future of the international innovation system—creating meaningful impact for humanity.
falling-walls.com/
November 9 - 20
UN Climate Change Conference, COP31, Antalya, Turkey.
The climate change Conferences of the Parties (COP) to the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement have become the largest annual conferences currently held under the auspices of the United Nations-and are now among the largest international meetings in the world. Every year the annual conferences are hosted by a different country, rotating between the five United Nations regional groups. This year the Presidency of the conference is shared between Turkey and Australia, with Australia as the 'President of negotiations'. In preparation for COP 31 meetings were held in Fiji and Tuvalu.
In addition to the 'Parties' to the UN Convention (governments) the Turkey conference will also be a hub for a vast network of events in-person and virtually focusing on the human will to transform relations with the natural world. Notable events include World Goodwill's Cycle of Conferences visualisation throughout the event(begining in the first week of November).
unfccc.int
www.un.org/
COP31.tr
November 10
World Science Day for Peace & Development
2026 Theme: Common ground through science diplomacy
This Annual UNESCO Day seeks to renew the national as well as the international commitment to science for peace and development and to stress the responsible use of science for the benefit of society. The Day is part of an International Week of Science and Peace.
www.un.org/
www.unesco.org
November 10 - 11
Paris Peace Forum, Paris, France
2026 Theme: From sovereignty to cooperation.
ln a world where collective action is more urgent than ever but where competition and the complexity of global challenges seem overwhelming, the Paris Peace Forum is a platform open to all seeking to develop coordination, rules, capacities and political momentum.
The Forum was created in 2018 by French President Emmanuel Macron to convene heads of state, leaders of international organizations and companies, and civil society organizations from all corners of the world to improve global governance.
parispeaceforum.org
November 13
World Kindness Day
In 1997 a network of NGOs from around the world, inspired by the Small Kindness Movement of Japan, signed a 'Declaration of Kindness' and launched the World Kindness Movement. The Movement now co-ordinates the annual World Kindness Day.
The Australian Movement notes: the purpose of World Kindness Day is to look beyond ourselves, beyond the boundaries of our country, beyond our culture, our race, our religion; and realise we are citizens of the world. As world citizens we have a commonality, and must realise that if progress is to be made in human relations and endeavours, if we are to achieve the goal of peaceful coexistence, we must focus on what we have in common.
www.randomactsofkindness.org
inspirekindness.com
www.theworldkindnessmovement.org
en.wikipedia.org
November 14
World Diabetes Day
2026 Theme: Early Action on Diabetes
The global prevalence of diabetes has nearly doubled since 1980, rising from 4.7% to 8.5% in the adult population. This reflects an increase in associated risk factors such as being overweight or obese. Over the past decade, diabetes prevalence has risen faster in low and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.
The 2026-2027 theme focuses on early diagnosis and risk reduction. Early action on diabetes will save lives, improve health and reduce long-term costs to health systems.
www.un.org
www.who.int
worlddiabetesday.org
November 15
International Day for the Prevention of and Fight against All Forms of Transnational Organized Crime
2026 Theme: Follow the money. Stop organized fraud.
In March 2024, the UN General Assembly declared this International Day to raise awareness of the threats posed by all forms of transnational organized crime and to enhance international cooperation in this regard.
www.un.org
www.unodc.org
November 15
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
A Global Status Report on Road Saftey issued by the WHO in 2018 reveals that:Road traffic injuries are now the leading killer of people aged 5-29 years. The burden is disproportionately borne by pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, in particular those living in developing countries.
www.un.org
www.who.int/
worlddayofremembrance.org
November 16
International Day of Tolerance
Tolerance and the celebration of diversity are two of the essential characteristics of the emerging mind and heart. Yet while the sense of wholeness and universal responsibility grows, the absence of tolerance and the emotional power of intolerance continues to fuel violent and separative movements in all parts of the world.
This is an important United Nations Day when we can give energy, love and support to the countless initiatives around the world designed to nourish and nurture the growing spirit of tolerance and universal responsibility. It is observed as a day to promote Tolerance Education and to reflect on how tolerance can best be fostered in our communities, particularly in divided communities.
See the UNESCO Declaration on the Principles of Tolerance
www.unesco.org
November 16 - 20
The Global Framework on Chemicals – First International Conference, Geneva, Switzerland.
UNEP invites you to join us for an international conference featuring a high-level segment, bringing together governments, industry and non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, for a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste.
The Global Framework on Chemicals provides the foundation for a future in which humanity benefits from chemicals in a safe and sustainable way. Its five strategic objectives and 28 targets guide countries and stakeholders to address the full lifecycle of chemicals, including products and waste, while preventing harmful impacts on human health and the environment.
www.unep.org
November 18
World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse
and Violence
Globally, countless young individuals are victims of sexual misconduct and exploitation. Such violations are pervasive, cutting across all nations and societal strata.... The sexual abuse and exploitation of children is a violation of human rights and a public health problem with significant consequences for global health and development.
un.org
November 18 - 19
Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, Manila, Philippines.
In 2024 the Government of Colombia hosted the first-ever Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children. It represented an historic moment; to re-imagine a world where all children are safe in their homes, schools, communities and online and make commitments commensurate with the global child protection challenge. Momentum in support of this work has continued to build and the second ministerial conference will be hosted in Manila.
endviolenceagainstchildrenconference.org
November 18 - 24
World Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week
2026 theme: One Health, one action: Prevent AMR now.
The World Health Organisation coordinates this annual global campaign. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become increasingly difficult or impossible to treat.
The 2026 Week theme highlights the recognition that Our world is more connected than ever. The medicines that save lives, the food we produce, the economies we depend on, and the health of our environment are all connected. When drug-resistant pathogens emerge and spread, they impact our health, animal health, food security, economies and sustainable development. Their emergence and spread are also influenced by the health of our environment.
who.int
November 19
World Toilet Day
2026 Theme: Safe toilets. Equal futures.
World Toilet Day, celebrated on 19th November every year, is about inspiring action to tackle the global sanitation crisis and help achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which promises sanitation for all by 2030.... This essential space, at the centre of our lives, should be safe and secure. But for billions of people, sanitation is under threat from conflict, climate change, disasters and neglect.
The campaign – ‘Safe toilets. Equal futures.’ – shows how safe sanitation protects women and girls’ health, safety, dignity and opportunity – enabling them to go to school, work and fully take part in society.
un.org/en/
November 19
World Philosophy Day
This UNESCO Day celebrated on the third Thursday of November underlines the enduring value of philosophy for the development of human thought, for each culture and for each individual.
Philosophy is an inspiring discipline as well as an everyday practice that can transform societies. By enabling to discover the diversity of the intellectual currents in the world, philosophy stimulates intercultural dialogue. By awakening minds to the exercise of thinking and the reasoned confrontation of opinions, philosophy helps to build a more tolerant, more respectful society. It thus helps to understand and respond to major contemporary challenges by creating the intellectual conditions for change.
UNESCO's observance of Philosophy Day 2026 will feature philosopher Souleymane Bachir Diagne speaking on the theme Living the Earth Together, followed by a roundtable on the question: "Thinking and acting together: philosophy to inhabit a world with plural challenges."
unesco.org/
2026 UNESCO Event
November 20
World Children's Day
2026 theme: My day. My rights. My future.
One of the outstanding keynotes of our present time is the focus that is being put on children: the rights of children; the needs of children; the importance of considering children in every area of life. At a global level this is reflected in The Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international human rights treaty that is transforming the lives of children and their families around the world. Under the Convention, ratified by all but one of the world's countries (USA) governments have agreed to meet universal standards, guaranteeing children the rights to survival, health, education, a caring family environment, play and culture ….
World Children's Day celebrates children and empowers the vision of an interdependent world of families, communities and nations in which the rights and needs of children are accorded the highest priority. 20 November marks the day in which the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989.
un.org/en/
unicef.org/
November 21
Africa Industrialization Day
Every year, since 1990 the UN has held events around the world on November 20th to raise awareness about the importance of Africa’s industrialization and the challenges faced by the continent.
un.org/en/
November 21
World Television Day
World Television Day is not so much a celebration of the tool, but rather the philosophy which it represents. Television represents a symbol for communication and globalization in the contemporary world.
un.org/en/
November 24
Full Moon — Sagittarius
Since ancient times human beings have honored the full moon as a time when the sacred is most accesible. It is a time of light - the moon reflects the light of the sun onto the face of the earth. In astrology this is a time when the qualities and potentials of the zodiacal sign of the sun are especially available to humanity for use in service.
During the full moon religious and esoteric groups around the world use the opportunities of this time to vizualize light and love and spiritual power flowing into humanity and strengthening all that is being done to help prepare the way for a world of unity, justice and peace; a world in which the Sustainable Development Goals will be achieved.
www.lucistrust.org
November 25
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Theme 2026 Ensure justice, protect survivors, end impunity
Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world. Globally, an estimated 736 million women — almost one in three — have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both, at least once in their life.
Women's activists have marked 25 November as a day against violence since 1981. The date commemorates the brutal assassination of the three Mirabal sisters, political activists in the Dominican Republic, in 1960 on orders of Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo .
Each year, for 16 days, bookended by the International Day to End Violence Against Women (25 November) and Human Rights Day (10 December), groups from around the world join together to speak out against gender violence which all too often, is covered up or tacitly condoned.
unwomen.org
un.org/en/
November 26
World Sustainable Transport Day
November 27
International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early, and Forced Marriage
In September 2026, the General Assembly unanimously adopted resolution A/80/L.99, which establishes 27 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early, and Forced Marriage. The resolution was brought forward by Sierra Leone and co-sponsored by at least 66 other countries, including Cabo Verde, Morocco, Costa Rica, Namibia, India, Rwanda, Sudan, and Afghanistan.
According to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), since 2024, one in five women were married or put in an informal union before turning 18, and an estimated 640 million women alive today were married in childhood. Early marriage affects women and girls disproportionately, for they are more likely to be married off younger than men and boys. According to the World Bank, between 2015 and 2024, 19 percent of the global population of women had been married before age 18, compared to 3 percent of men who were married before age 18.
globalissues.org
November 28
Goi Peace Foundation Forum, Tokyo, Japan
2026 Theme: Connecting Hope, Creating Peace
This annual event observed by the Goi Peace Foundation features the presentation of the Goi Peace Award honoring individuals and organizations in various fields that have made outstanding contributions toward the realization of a peaceful and harmonious world for all life on earth. In 2026 the award will be presented to artist and social innovator, Lily Yeh Awa
www.goipeace.or.jp
November 29
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
The International Day of Solidarity traditionally provides an opportunity for the international community to focus its attention on the fact that the question of Palestine remains unresolved and that the Palestinian people have yet to attain their inalienable rights as defined by the General Assembly, namely, the right to self-determination without external interference, the right to national independence and sovereignty, and the right to return to their homes and property, from which they have been displaced.
un.org/en/
un.org/unispal/
November 29
Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare
Agreement to disarm all chemical weapons was reached in 1993 with adoption of the Chemical Weapons Convention. This memorial Day remembers victims of chemical weapons and maintains the focus on illegal use of chemical weapons.
www.un.org/en/
www.opcw.org
|
|
