International Science and Peace Week, from 9 to 15 November, was first held in 1986 as part of the International Year of Peace.
Building on the success of the 1986 commemoration, organizers continued their efforts. Recognizing the value of the annual event, the General Assembly adopted resolution 43/61 in December 1988, declaring that an “International Science and Peace Week” would be held during the week of 11 November each year.
The General Assembly called on Member States, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations to encourage relevant institutions, organizations and individuals to sponsor events and activities related to research and dissemination of information on the link between scientific and technological advances and the maintenance of peace and security. It called on Member States to promote international cooperation among scientists and asked the Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly, at its 45th session, on the activities and efforts of Member States and interested parties related to this week.
The annual International Science and Peace Week makes an important contribution to promoting peace.
The week aims to promote academic exchange on themes of universal importance, as well as to raise awareness of the relationship between science and peace among the general public.
World Science Day for Peace and Development
World Science Day for Peace and Development, celebrated every year on 10 November, emphasizes the important role of science in society and the need to involve the public at large in discussions about emerging scientific issues. It also emphasizes the importance and relevance of science in our daily lives.
The first World Science Day for Peace and Development was celebrated around the world on 10 November 2002 under the auspices of UNESCO. The celebration was attended by many partners, including governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, UNESCO National Commissions, scientific research institutions, professional associations, the media, science teachers and schools.
World Science Day for Peace and Development aims to ensure that the public is informed about scientific developments by linking science more closely with society. It also highlights the role scientists play in expanding our understanding of the remarkable and fragile planet we call home and making our societies more sustainable.
This day provides an opportunity to mobilize all stakeholders involved in the theme of science for peace and development, from government officials to the media and school students. UNESCO strongly encourages everyone to take part in celebrating World Science Day for Peace and Development by organizing their own events and activities on the day.
Trust, change, and tomorrow: The science you need in 2050
In August 2023, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2024-2033 the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development, highlighting the critical role of science in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.
This initiative recognizes that achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda and beyond will require advances in knowledge and innovation, as well as stronger partnerships between science, policy and society.
Against this backdrop, World Science Day 2025 provides an important platform for UNESCO to spearhead this effort and reflect on what kind of science, and what kind of relationship between science and society, will be essential to meet the challenges of the future.