World Wildlife Day

Celebrated on 03/03/2026

Quick Fact

World Wildlife Day is celebrated on March 3, the day the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed in 1973. Each year, the UN selects a theme to focus global attention on critical wildlife issues, such as the 2024 theme 'Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.'

Origins and Establishment of World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly on December 20, 2013, through Resolution 68/205. The date, March 3, was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. The proposal was put forward by Thailand, a signatory to CITES, to raise awareness about the world's wild animals and plants and the urgent need to combat wildlife crime.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its first observance in 2014, World Wildlife Day has grown into a global event celebrated by governments, NGOs, and individuals. Each year, the CITES Secretariat selects a theme, such as 'Big Cats: Predators under Threat' (2018) or 'Sustaining All Life on Earth' (2020). Celebrations include educational workshops, art contests, film screenings, and social media campaigns. The day also serves as a platform to highlight successes in conservation and to call for stronger action against poaching and habitat loss.

Facts & General Observations

• Over 1 million species are currently threatened with extinction, many within decades, according to the IPBES Global Assessment Report (2019).
• Illegal wildlife trade is valued at up to $23 billion per year, making it one of the most lucrative illicit activities globally.
• World Wildlife Day is one of the most widely recognized UN international days, with events in over 100 countries annually.

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