This day was first proposed in 2010 by the Baltic Sea NGO Forum.
The first World NGO Day was observed in 2014.
It aims to recognize and celebrate the vital role that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play in making a positive impact on society.
NGOs are typically independent, non-profit organisations that operate at a local, national, or international level to address a range of social, environmental, and humanitarian issues.
The theme for 2024 is “Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.