Date
Friday
May
16

May 16

International Day of the Boy Child

On International Day of the Boy Child, let's celebrate all boys and empower them to reach their full potential!

Yearly Date
May 16
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

Celebrate International Day of the Boy Child on May 16 with enthusiasm and joy! This day was established to recognize and celebrate the rights and achievements of boys around the world. It was first instituted by a coalition of non-governmental organizations in 2012 in an effort to address issues faced by boys including child labor, gender inequality, poverty, and lack of access to education. With this special holiday we can raise awareness of these issues, as well as create opportunities for boys to reach their full potential. Let's come together and recognize how important it is that all children are given equal opportunity!

International Day of the Boy Child Timeline

2000
UN Millennium Declaration
The United Nations adopts the Millennium Declaration, acknowledging the importance of gender equality and child rights, forming groundwork for advocacy including the rights of boys.
2006
UN Study on Violence
UN's independent expert releases a global study on violence against children, recognizing boys as particularly vulnerable to certain forms of violence and exploitation.
2011
NGO Coalition Formation
A group of NGOs form a coalition focused on the welfare of boys worldwide, addressing the gaps in gender-specific policies and programs.
2012
First International Day of the Boy Child
The coalition of NGOs, supported by various governments, institutes the first International Day of the Boy Child to bring attention to issues facing boys.
2015
Focus on Education
Highlighting the topic of education, this year’s observation worked to spotlight the lack of access to quality education for boys in underprivileged regions.
2020
COVID-19 and Boys
During the COVID-19 pandemic, heightened attention is drawn to the vulnerabilities of boys in unstable environments, further emphasizing the importance of this day.

How to Celebrate International Day of the Boy Child

1

Organize a sports tournament

Start a tournament with the boys in your community or school to celebrate International Day of the Boy Child. Use different sports like football, basketball, tennis, and badminton.

2

Go on an adventure

Take the boys in your family or community on an adventure such as camping, hiking, or biking. This is a great way to help the boys in your life learn about nature and get some fresh air.

3

Host a movie night

Gather the boys in your community or family to watch a movie together. Choose movies that are suitable for young boys and have snacks available for them.

4

Organize a dinner party

Host a dinner party for the boys in your community or family. Create a special menu for them and allow them to assist in preparing the food if possible.

5

Plan a game night

Organize a game night for the boys in your community or family. Choose appropriate games that they can all play together. This is a great way to help them bond and have some fun.

Why International Day of the Boy Child is Important

A

Recognition of boys' rights

International Day of the Boy Child is a special day dedicated to raising awareness about the unique needs, experiences and challenges boys face around the world. It's a day to recognize boys' basic human rights, including access to education, health care and protection from violence and exploitation.

B

Focus on boys’ health & well being

International Day of the Boy Child also focuses on what can be done to improve boys' physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing. This includes advocating for gender equality, providing essential nutrition and healthcare services, and ensuring that kids have access to safe play spaces and activities.

C

Promotion of positive male role models

This day also provides an opportunity to highlight positive male role models in society who are inspiring boys to strive for excellence. Boys need strong, caring figures in their lives – men who can show them how to make responsible decisions, respect women and girls, and contribute positively to their communities.

International Day of the Boy Child Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 15
Monday
2024
May 15
Wednesday
2025
May 15
Thursday
2026
May 15
Friday
2027
May 15
Saturday