The International Men’s Day (IMD) is annually observed across the globe on November 19 to honour and celebrate the vital role of men in society, family, and communities.
- 19th November 2024 marks the 26th IMD.
Theme:
The theme for IMD 2024 is “Positive Male Role Models”.
- The theme highlights how positive male role models encourage meaningful lives, uphold values like kindness and integrity, and help build healthier, balanced societies.
Background:
i.The IMD project was launched by Thomas Oaster on 7th February 1992 in the Republic of Malta, after being conceived on 8 February 1991.
ii.The project was revived in 1999 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, a history lecturer at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago.
- The citizens of Trinidad and Tobago were the first to celebrate IMD on 19th November.
iii.The first ever IMD was observed on 19th November 1999.
Why November 17?
i.Prof. Teelucksingh chose November 19 as the date for IMD to honour his father’s birthday.
ii.It was also on that day in 1989 that Trinidad and Tobago’s football team had united the country with their endeavours to qualify for the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup.
Significance:
i.The day provides a chance to address key issues related to men’s health, well-being, and the challenges they face.
ii.IMD highlights the gender inequalities men face and promotes equal treatment and opportunities for them in all areas of life.
iii.The day aims to inspire hope for the depressed, faith for the lonely, comfort for the heartbroken, break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and promote a kinder, more compassionate world.
6 Pillars of IMD:
i.To promote positive male role models
ii.To celebrate men’s positive contributions to society
iii.To focus on men’s health and wellbeing
iv.To highlight discrimination against men
v.To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
vi.To create a safer, better world
Observance:
i.IMD is celebrated in over 80 countries across the globe.
ii.In India, the inaugural celebration of IMD was organised by Save Indian Family (Indian Men’s rights organisation) on November 19, 2007.
iii.Indian men’s rights advocate Uma Challa has also made significant contributions to popularising the day.
- She is the founder of several organizations and pioneered the celebration of IMD in India in 2007.
