International Men's Day 2025: Date, history, significance and theme

International Men's Day is observed on November 19 every year to celebrate the significant contributions of men to society, families, and communities. The day also raises awareness about men's health and well-being while promoting conversations around gender equality and men's issues.

The day is an opportunity to appreciate and celebrate the men and the contributions they make to society, and to highlight their achievements as well as the discrimination faced by men and boys. Unlike International Women’s Day, it is not officially recognised by the United Nations but is celebrated in many countries every year.

International Men's Day 2025: Date

This year, International Men's Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 19, across the world.

History

While calls for International Men’s Day existed as early as the 1960s, it was first conceptualised and observed in 1999. This day was first initiated by history professor Dr Jerome Teelucksingh from the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago. Teelucksingh chose this date to commemorate his father’s birth anniversary. The event has now become a global movement celebrated in over 80 countries.

Uma Challa, a men's rights activist, has played a key role in popularising International Men's Day celebrations in India. According to reports, she started the celebrations in the country to highlight the issues males suffer in an anti-male legal system, and she has been leading the celebrations since 2007.

International Men's Day 2025: Theme

According to the official website of International Men's Day, the global theme for 2025 is ‘Celebrating Men and Boys’.

Significance

"International Men's Day is an opportunity for people everywhere of goodwill to appreciate and celebrate the men in their lives and the contribution they make to society for the greater good of all," according to its website.

International Men's Day is an opportunity to appreciate men's contributions to society while also addressing issues like men's health, well-being, and gender equality.

The day promotes positive male role models, highlights men's achievements, and encourages conversations about challenges such as mental health, suicide, and discrimination. It is not just about celebration but also about creating a safer and more inclusive world for everyone by improving gender relations.