On the initiative of Uzbekistan, the UN General Assembly established the International Day in Memory of the Victims of Earthquakes
On 29 April 2025, at the UN Headquarters in New York, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution initiated by Uzbekistan, proclaiming 29 April as the International Day in Memory of the Victims of Earthquakes.
The document was co-sponsored by more than 80 states representing all regions of the world.
The resolution is based on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to establish a day of remembrance and solidarity as a sign of respect for the victims of earthquakes and a reminder of the need for international cooperation in this area.
Addressing the extraordinary summit of the Organisation of Turkic States on 16 March 2023, the head of state paid special attention to the need to strengthen practical cooperation with international structures specializing in emergency situations.
The International Day will be observed for the first time on 29 April 2026, marking 60 years since the devastating earthquake that struck the city of Tashkent in 1966.
Earthquakes are among the most devastating natural disasters. Although they constitute a relatively small proportion of all natural disasters, they often result in the most tragic consequences.
The resolution calls on UN Member States, UN agencies, and other international organizations to promote the International Day, including through informational and educational activities aimed at raising awareness, enhancing resilience, and improving emergency preparedness.
The adoption of the document was highly appreciated by the international community. Its particular relevance is noted in the context of the increasing frequency of destructive earthquakes in various parts of the world.
The approval of this initiative is yet another confirmation of Uzbekistan’s growing authority on the international stage and its contribution to promoting global solutions that serve the interests of all humanity.
