The United Nations (UN’s) International Day of Friendship or World Friendship Day is annually observed across the globe on 30 July to honour the role of friendship in fostering peace, solidarity, and reconciliation across cultures and communities globally.
- 2025 marks the 14th anniversary of International Friendship Day.
Background:
Proclamation:Â In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), at its 65th session, adopted resolution A/65/L.72, declaring 30th July as the International Day of Friendship to be observed annually.
First Observance: The first-ever International Day of Friendship was observed in 2011.
UNESCO’s Role: The idea of International Friendship Day was supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which defined the Culture of Peace as values, attitudes, and behaviours that reject violence and aim to prevent conflicts by addressing root causes.
- The Culture of Peace resolution was adopted by the UNGA in 1997.
Journey of Friendship Day:
Commercial Origin: The concept of Friendship Day was originally started by Joyce Hall, the founder of Hallmark Cards, in 1930 in Paraguay, as a day to celebrate friendships.
World Friendship Crusade: In 1958, Dr. Ramon Artemio Bracho coined the term ‘Friendship Day’ and founded the World Friendship Crusade, an international civil organisation that promotes a culture of peace through friendship.
UN Ambassador of Friendship: In 1988, the UN named Winnie the Pooh as the World’s Ambassador of Friendship, symbolising the values of kindness and unity.
Significance:
Promotion of Peace and Unity: The day promotes peace by reducing social and cultural divisions through friendship.
Youth and Diversity: It encourages young people to take part in activities that support respect and understanding among all.
Friendship Day in India:
Observance: India celebrates Friendship Day every year on the first Sunday of August.
Celebration in 2025: In India, Friendship Day 2025 will be celebrated on 3rd August 2025 (Sunday).
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO):
Director General (DG) – Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters – Paris, France
Established – 1945
