Non-Governmental Organizations, commonly referred to as NGOs, are entities established for various causes around the globe. But what exactly is an NGO? Is there a history behind it? Why do NGOs exist, and what do they do? These are common questions for those seeking to understand the concept further.

World NGO Day was initiated by Marcis Skadmanis, a philanthropist from Latvia now residing in the UK. It was officially proposed and adopted by 12 countries during the Baltic Sea NGO Forum in Vilnius, Lithuania, on April 17, 2010. The announcement came in 2012, leading to World NGO Day’s first global opening ceremony, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland in Helsinki on February 27, 2014. Subsequently, the United Nations, European Union, Nordic Council, and various international organizations have recognized February 27 as World NGO Day annually.

Celebrated in over 89 countries across six continents, World NGO Day aims to highlight NGOs’ critical role in promoting positive change, driving development, and advocating for the welfare of marginalized communities. The day also honours NGO founders, employees, volunteers, members, and supporters.

NGOs focus on areas requiring sustainable development, such as human rights, environmental protection, social justice, health, education, and poverty alleviation. On World NGO Day, conferences, discussions, workshops, and more are held globally, fostering connections between countries and their residents.

The theme for World NGO Day 2024 is “Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

Through organizing events like workshops and conferences, World NGO Day helps people understand the impact of NGOs in communities, raising awareness and offering opportunities for global engagement.