The United Nations(UN) International Day of Friendship is observed annually on July 30 to cherish the bond of friendship which will ultimately help to develop love and peace among human beings. The day is also called Friendship Day.
Idea behind the day– Friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.
Friendship Day in India
Many countries including India, celebrate the 1st Sunday of August as the day, this year(2020) it falls on August 2. The Day is observed in Oberlin, Ohio, United States on April 8. Nepal celebrates the day on July 3
Background
i.The 1st day was proposed for 30 July in 1958 by the World Friendship Crusade.
ii.The UN General Assembly in 2011 proclaimed July 30 as the official International Day of Friendship.
Key Info on the day
i.The original idea for a day of friendship came from Hallmark cards in the 1930’s and was originally celebrated on 2nd August.
ii.The day was celebrated by exchanging cards and gifts.
iii.Dr.Ramon Artemio Bracho in 1958 came up with the term ‘Friendship Day’ and started a foundation called The World Friendship Crusade.
Note:
On 5 August 1997, Mrs. Nane Annan, wife of then United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, designated ‘Winnie the Pooh’ as Ambassador of Friendship on the occasion of International Day of Friendship.
26th Youth Assembly
i.The 26th Youth Assembly(Virtual) is organised by Friendship Ambassadors Foundation
ii.It is a unique platform for young people and experts from across the world to learn from one another on how to regain the momentum of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 after the COVID-19 crisis.
Friendship Ambassadors Foundation– It is a nonprofit, tax exempt, 501(c)(3) Non Governmental Organisation(NGO), affiliated with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Department of Public Information among others
Recent Related News:
i.International Day of Action for Women’s Health observed on May 28, 2020
ii.International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression 2020 is observed on June 4.
