International Men’s Day: 19 November

On November 19, International Men’s Day celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities. We highlight positive role models and raise awareness of men’s well-being. Our theme for 2024 is “Positive Male Role Models”.

Being in November brings special significance because it is also the month of "Movember", an annual event where men grow their moustaches during the entire month to raise awareness of health issues concerning men such as testicular cancer, prostate cancer, etc. It is also the month which celebrates Children's Day, on 20 November which then forms 48 hours of celebrations for men and children, and the special relationship they share.

What is the purpose of International men's Day?

International Men's Day, celebrated on November 19 every year, is dedicated to men and their contributions to society. The day seeks to celebrate the success and progress made by men in economic, social, cultural, and political spheres and their contributions to family, institutions and society at large.

The objectives of International Men’s Day are listed below: 

* One of the IMD's goals is to promote positive male role models. It includes supporting not only sportsmen and film stars but also regular working-class men who lead morally upright lives.

* To prioritise the social, spiritual, physical, and emotional health and wellbeing of men.
* To promote gender equality and improve gender relations.
* To honour the positive contributions men have made to the environment, marriage, community, family, and society.
* To bring attention to the discrimination against men in the legal system, social attitudes, and social expectations. To build a better and safer world where everyone can live in security while growing to their full potential.

Mahatma Gandhi said, “We must become the change we seek.” It is only when we all, both men and women, lead by example that we will create a fair and safe society that allows everyone the opportunity to prosper.