Overview

The International Day of Hope celebrates and promotes hope as a guiding principle, fosters hope for individuals, communities, and nations, and recognizes hope as a catalyst for positive change.

Official Details

• Date: July 12 (annually)
• Designated by: UN General Assembly Resolution A/79/L.54 (March 4, 2025)
• Initiated by: Kiribati — first country where the sun rises on the International Date Line
• Passed with 161 member states in favor
• July 12 is Kiribati's National Day — symbolizing hope and light

Key Facts

• Hope activates reward and motivation centers in the brain
• Higher hope levels associated with lower depression and anxiety
• Voluntary Hope Index being developed for national progress tracking
• Hope fosters social trust and reduces polarization

Actions for General Users

• Practice hope as a skill — set goals and identify pathways
• Share stories of resilience and positive change
• Perform acts of kindness in your community
• Support others facing difficult circumstances
• Plant a sunflower as a symbol of hope

Actions for Businesses

• Foster a culture of hope and optimism in the workplace
• Set realistic, meaningful goals that inspire employees
• Support community-based initiatives building hope and resilience
• Integrate hope-centered approaches into employee wellness programmes
• Measure and track employee hope and well-being

Covered SDGs

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being)
• SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)