It underlines the importance of science in our daily lives, seeking to spark interest in science and make it more accessible to citizens.

This year for the first time, the Day will be held under the aegis of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development in the 2024–2033 period, as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly. A strong emphasis will be put on young people.

Slovenia will mark the day on 12 November in Ljubljana with a ceremony organised by the Slovenian Scientific Foundation and the Slovenian National Commission for UNESCO. The event will honour professors emeriti – mentors of young researchers – who will receive the 2024 Dr Aleksandra Kornhauser Frazer plaques and feature a presentation of the UNESCO department and two scientific lectures on the topics of biological oceanography and the carbon cycle, as well as meteorology.

As the UN organisation responsible for science, UNESCO will hold an online event on 12 November entitled Why Science Matters – Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures. A variety of experts will highlight the role of science in society and everyday life, while young people will have the opportunity to ask the scientists questions.

10 November was declared World Science Day for Peace and Development by UNESCO in 2001 and celebrated around the world a year later. It brings together governmental and non-governmental organisations, UNESCO national commissions, scientific, research and educational institutions, and others.

In August 2023, the UN General Assembly declared the 2024–2033 period the Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development. Its aim is to enhance science’s role in pursuing sustainable development goals and working towards a safer, more prosperous future for all.