May 21 marks Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. GAAD focuses on digital access, inclusion and the importance of creating environments that are accessible to everyone. The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is designed to promote understanding between different cultures, encourage respect for cultural identities and traditions, support inclusive societies, highlight the role of culture in sustainable development and counter discrimination and cultural intolerance.

May 18 marks International Museum Day, a global observance that celebrates the role museums play in preserving history, sharing knowledge and connecting communities through culture, learning and storytelling.

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) is observed annually on May 17 and raises awareness of discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. The day highlights the importance of inclusion, equality and the ongoing need to challenge prejudice in all its forms.

The International Day of Families is observed annually on May 15 and highlights the importance of families in shaping societies, communities and individual wellbeing. The day encourages reflection on the many different forms families can take and the role supportive environments play in helping people thrive both personally and professionally.

May 14 marks Apraxia Awareness Day, a lesser-known but important observance that highlights a neurological condition which affects a person’s ability to plan and coordinate the movements needed for speech and communication. Awareness efforts are seen internationally through schools, healthcare providers, and speech-language associations.

As Mental Health Awareness Week continues, today May 13 offers a moment to pause and reflect on the role mental wellbeing plays in our everyday lives, both personally and within the workplace. Mental health is not a fixed experience. It can be shaped by a wide range of factors including environment, identity, workload, relationships, culture and access to support. For many people, these influences can intersect in ways that are not always visible but have a significant impact on how they feel and function day to day.

International Nurses Day is observed each year on May 12 and recognises the dedication, compassion and contribution of nurses across the world. Today highlights the essential role nurses play in supporting individuals, families and communities in a wide range of healthcare settings.

Mental Health Awareness Week starting on May 11 is dedicated to encouraging open conversations around mental wellbeing while promoting greater understanding, support and inclusion. This week aims to increase understanding of mental health issues, encourage early support and treatment, reduce discrimination and stigma, promote wellbeing and resilience and encourage community connection and open discussion.

During May, many countries around the world celebrate Mother’s Day, recognising the role of mothers and female carers. While traditions and celebrations vary globally, the observance also creates an opportunity to reflect on the importance of supporting mothers and female carers inside and outside the workplace.

Europe Day is celebrated annually on May 9 and recognises peace, unity and cooperation across Europe. Today celebrates European peace and cooperation, democracy and human rights, cultural unity and diversity, economic cooperation and the achievements of European integration.

World Red Cross Day takes place annually on May 8 and recognises the humanitarian work carried out by volunteers and organisations supporting communities affected by conflict, disaster and crisis. The observance highlights compassion, community support and the importance of protecting human dignity around the world.

World AIDS Orphans Day is observed each year on May 7 and highlights the importance of compassion, support and education. It also acknowledges the challenges many communities continue to face due to stigma, inequality and limited access to healthcare resources.

The European Day for Independent Living is recognised each year on May 5 and raises awareness of the rights of disabled people to live independently and participate fully in society.

May 4 marks the start of Deaf Awareness Week; an opportunity to raise awareness of Deaf communities, celebrate Deaf culture and encourage more inclusive communication practices. This week highlights the importance of accessibility and breaking down barriers that can prevent people from fully participating in workplaces, education and society.

May 3 is World Press Freedom Day. The day encourages conversations around representation, access to information and the importance of ensuring diverse voices are heard.

World Tuna Day takes place each year on May 2 and raises awareness of the importance of sustainable fishing practices and ocean conservation around the world. It highlights the wider impact environmental issues can have on communities, livelihoods and global wellbeing.

International Workers’ Day is observed globally on May 1 and recognises the rights and achievements of workers across industries and communities. Today also highlights the importance of fair treatment, safe working conditions and equal opportunities in the workplace.

April 26 is observed as World Intellectual Property Day, an international awareness day that highlights the role of creativity, innovation and intellectual property (IP) rights in supporting economic growth and cultural development. It celebrates the ideas and inventions that shape modern life and the systems that help protect them.

April 25 is observed globally as Girls in ICT Day, an annual initiative dedicated to encouraging and empowering girls and young women to pursue education and careers in information and communication technology. It highlights the importance of closing the gender gap in tech and ensuring that digital innovation is shaped by diverse voices.

April 23 is observed as St George’s Day in England, a day traditionally associated with English heritage, identity and cultural celebration. In more modern interpretations, it is also an opportunity to reflect on what national identity means in an increasingly diverse and interconnected society.