HRN Network (2025)

16/03/2025

World Contact Day

World Contact Day is celebrated annually on March 15. First observed in 1953, it's a day when people around the globe send peaceful messages into space, hoping to communicate with aliens. The day encourages openness, curiosity, and global unity, emphasizing peaceful and respectful contact.

You can celebrate by sending telepathic messages expressing friendship, stargazing to observe planets and constellations, or watching films like "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," or "Arrival." Reading books such as "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan or listening to space-themed music like "Space Oddity" by David Bowie can enrich your experience.

Hosting a space-themed party, creating art, or writing stories about peaceful encounters with aliens are also enjoyable ways to participate. Visiting local observatories or planetariums and exploring NASA's website or other space exploration resources can further enhance your celebration.

13/02/2025

World Radio Day - Celebrating the Power of Sound and Connection

Every year on February 13th, the world comes together to celebrate World Radio Day, a global tribute to the medium that has connected communities, spread knowledge, and inspired change for over a century. Established by UNESCO, this day highlights the enduring impact of radio as a platform for information, education, and entertainment, reaching people in every corner of the world.

Radio remains one of the most powerful and accessible forms of media, capable of reaching millions of people regardless of their location or socio-economic background. From emergency broadcasts during crises to lively debates and music programs, radio continues to be a source of reliable information and cultural expression.

One of radio's greatest strengths is its ability to give a voice to the voiceless. It provides a platform for marginalized communities, minority languages, and local cultures. Through interactive shows and talk programs, listeners can share their opinions, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions.

This year’s theme, “Radio for Peace”, highlights the role of radio in promoting dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation. In times of conflict, radio becomes a vital tool for spreading messages of tolerance and unity, helping communities navigate challenges and find common ground.
Let’s celebrate the medium that continues to connect, educate, and empower.

11/02/2025

Breaking Barriers - Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Every year on February 11, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital contributions of women in scientific fields and promoting gender equality in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Why This Day Matters

Women have played a crucial role in scientific discoveries throughout history, yet they continue to be underrepresented in STEM fields. Despite progress, gender bias, stereotypes, and systemic barriers still limit opportunities for many talented women and girls to thrive in science and research. According to UNESCO, women make up less than 30% of researchers worldwide, and their representation in higher academic and professional STEM positions remains disproportionately low.

The United Nations General Assembly established this observance in 2015 to promote full and equal access to science for women and girls. The initiative aligns with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education (SDG 4) and gender equality (SDG 5).

The Impact of Women in Science

From Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize for her pioneering research in radioactivity, to Katherine Johnson, the NASA mathematician whose calculations helped send astronauts to the Moon, women have significantly shaped our understanding of the world. Today, female scientists continue to lead groundbreaking research in fields such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and medicine.

Challenges Women Face in STEM

Despite their achievements, women in science often encounter challenges such as:

Gender Bias: Women face discrimination in hiring, promotions, and funding opportunities.

Lack of Role Models: The underrepresentation of female scientists in leadership roles discourages young girls from pursuing STEM careers.

Work-Life Balance: Many women struggle to balance careers in research with societal expectations around family and caregiving.

Unequal Pay: Studies show a persistent gender pay gap in scientific professions.

Encouraging the Next Generation

To bridge the gender gap in STEM, it is essential to:

Promote STEM education for girls from an early age.

Encourage mentorship programs connecting young women with successful female scientists.

Challenge stereotypes about gender roles in science and technology.

Support policies and initiatives that promote gender diversity in research and academia.

How to Celebrate This Day

Individuals and organizations worldwide can take part in the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by:

Attending or hosting STEM workshops and panel discussions.

Highlighting female scientists and researchers on social media.

Encouraging schools and universities to provide scholarships for women in STEM.

Organizing mentorship programs to support young girls in pursuing scientific careers.

Final Thoughts

Women and girls belong in science. Their contributions are essential to advancing knowledge, driving innovation, and solving global challenges. By breaking barriers and creating equal opportunities, we can build a future where talent—not gender—determines success in STEM fields.

This February 11, let’s celebrate the brilliance, resilience, and potential of women and girls in science. Because when women rise, science thrives.

01/02/2025

International Day of Change Your Password

In today's digital world, where personal and financial data is stored online, cybersecurity has become a top priority. Every year on February 1st, the world observes the International Day of Change Your Password, a reminder to update and strengthen passwords to protect against cyber threats. This initiative encourages individuals and organizations to take proactive steps in safeguarding their digital lives.

With cyberattacks on the rise, weak passwords remain one of the biggest security risks. According to cybersecurity experts, many people still use simple and easy-to-guess passwords like “123456” or “password.” Hackers use automated tools to crack such passwords within seconds, leading to identity theft, data breaches, and financial fraud.
Strong passwords serve as the first line of defense against cybercriminals. A secure password should:
Be at least 12-16 characters long

Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
Avoid common words, names, or easily guessed information
Be unique for each online account
Regularly updating passwords reduces the risk of unauthorized access to accounts. Many cybercriminals obtain passwords through data breaches, and if users reuse passwords across multiple platforms, hackers can exploit them to access other accounts. Changing passwords periodically helps mitigate this risk and enhances security.

The International Day of Change Your Password is an opportunity to take charge of your online security. In an era where data breaches and cyber threats are more sophisticated than ever, updating and strengthening passwords is a simple yet effective way to protect personal and professional information. By making cybersecurity a priority, individuals and businesses can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and keep their digital lives safe.

10/12/2024

10 December - Human Rights Day

10 December is celebrated as Human Rights Day, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.

This day serves as a global reminder of the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to everyone, regardless of race, gender, religion, or background. It highlights the importance of equality, dignity, and justice for all and calls for collective efforts to protect and promote these values.

Human Rights Day encourages individuals, communities, and nations to reflect on their role in creating a world where human rights are universally respected and upheld.

05/12/2024

International Volunteer Day

Today, December 5th, we celebrate International Volunteer Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of volunteers worldwide.

Volunteers are the heart of our communities, giving their time, energy, and skills to bring positive change and hope to those in need. Whether through small acts of kindness or large-scale initiatives, their efforts have a lasting impact on society.

This day is an opportunity to appreciate their dedication and to inspire others to join the cause. Volunteering not only transforms communities but also enriches our own lives by fostering connections, empathy, and a sense of purpose.
Let us honor the spirit of volunteering and continue building stronger, more compassionate communities together.

01/12/2024

World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, supporting those living with the condition, and remembering those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. Established in 1988, it was the first-ever global health day.

Objectives of World AIDS Day:
Awareness: To educate people about HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment.
Solidarity: To show support for individuals living with HIV and combat stigma and discrimination.
Advocacy: To push for increased funding for research, healthcare access, and resources for prevention and treatment.
Remembrance: To honor the memory of those lost to AIDS-related illnesses.

This day is not only about remembering; it’s also about action.

07/11/2024

Marie Curie’s birthday
Marie Curie was born on November 7, 1867 in Warsaw, Poland. She is celebrated for her pioneering research on radioactivity and was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, as well as the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields: Physics and Chemistry.
In a quiet laboratory, light flickers over the face of a determined scientist. She stands not just in a room but at the edge of the known world, peering into the mysteries that lie beyond. Her hands, steady yet worn, hold the elements of life and death, light and darkness. She is not simply searching; she is illuminating.
To venture into the unknown is to dance with the unseen forces of the universe. Marie Curie did not just discover radium and polonium—she uncovered a new world, unseen yet powerful, deadly yet healing. Her work did not remain in that lab, wrapped in silence; it traveled across decades, touching the lives of millions, shaping medicine, and altering the course of science forever.
She reminds us that knowledge has its cost, that every discovery is a journey fraught with challenge, but that the light it brings is worth every step taken in the dark.

29/09/2024

World Heart Day 2024

World Heart Day 2024 is celebrated on September 29. This global event was established by the World Heart Federation in collaboration with the World Health Organization to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and promote preventive measures for heart health.

Activities such as health check-ups, CPR training sessions, fitness events, and educational seminars are common ways to observe the day. Individuals are also encouraged to share heart health information on social media to spread awareness

28/09/2024

September 28 - International Day for Universal Access to Information

September 28 is recognized as the International Day for Universal Access to Information, proclaimed by UNESCO in 2015. This day aims to highlight the importance of free and equitable access to information for everyone as a fundamental human right.

Access to information empowers citizens to make informed decisions, strengthens democracy, and enhances transparency and accountability in public institutions. In a society where information is accessible, there is increased civic participation and improved public services.

This day serves as an opportunity to promote and support policies and laws that ensure equal access to information for all individuals and groups within society.

14/08/2024

International Left-Handers Day: Celebrating the Unique Side

International Left-Handers Day is celebrated annually on August 13th. This day is dedicated to the approximately 10% of the world’s population who are left-handed. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges left-handers face in a world predominantly designed for right-handed people and to celebrate their unique talents and perspectives.

History of Left-Handers Day
Left-Handers Day was first observed in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, founder of the Left-Handers International, Inc. The day was created to promote awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed. Over time, it has become a global celebration, with events and activities designed to highlight the uniqueness of left-handers.

Challenges Faced by Left-Handed People
Everyday Objects: Many tools and objects, from scissors to desks, are designed with right-handed users in mind, making them awkward or difficult for left-handers to use.

Writing Smudge: Left-handed individuals often experience smudging when writing, particularly with pens or markers, as their hand moves across the fresh ink.

Learning Environment: In school settings, left-handed students might struggle with writing and other tasks that are easier for right-handed peers, sometimes requiring special accommodations.

Social Stigma: Historically, being left-handed was considered abnormal, and left-handed children were sometimes forced to use their right hand. Though much of this stigma has faded, some cultural biases remain.

Celebrating Left-Handers Day
On Left-Handers Day, various activities are organized to celebrate the uniqueness of left-handers. These include:

Left-Handed Challenges: Right-handed people are encouraged to try performing tasks with their left hand to experience what it’s like to be left-handed.

Awareness Campaigns: Social media and other platforms are used to spread awareness about the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed.

Special Events: Some countries and communities host events such as left-handed games, exhibitions, and gatherings to bring together left-handers and celebrate their day.

Fun Facts About Left-Handers
Creativity and Innovation: Studies suggest that left-handers may be more creative and better at divergent thinking, which is crucial in fields like arts and science.

Famous Left-Handers: Some of the world’s greatest thinkers, artists, and leaders were left-handed, including Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Barack Obama.

Ambidextrous Ability: While most people have a dominant hand, some left-handers are ambidextrous, meaning they can use both hands equally well.

How to Support Left-Handers
Supporting left-handed individuals can be as simple as providing left-handed tools or being mindful of the challenges they face. Educational institutions and workplaces can help by offering accommodations, such as left-handed desks or utensils, and fostering an inclusive environment.

Conclusion
International Left-Handers Day is a celebration of individuality and a reminder of the diversity that exists in our world. It’s a day to acknowledge the creativity, adaptability, and resilience of left-handers and to promote a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their dominant hand, can thrive.

28/06/2024

"The Impact of Gender-Based Disinformation on the Bosnian Community in Kosovo."

As part of the project "Speak Up, Speak Out: Breaking the Silence for Combating Gender Disinformation," the first program in the Bosnian language was implemented with the theme "The Impact of Gender-Based Disinformation on the Bosnian Community in Kosovo". This program featured an exclusive interview with Deputy Prime Minister Emilija Rexhepi, who shared her thoughts and experiences regarding the issue of gender-based disinformation and its profound impact on the Bosniak community in Kosovo.

She emphasized the importance of combating disinformation that particularly affects women and girls in this community, noting that such harmful practices not only damage their reputation and dignity but also negatively impact their participation in society and the economy.

Deputy Prime Minister Rexhepi mentioned that disinformation is often used as a tool to marginalize women by spreading stereotypes and false narratives that increase discrimination and gender inequality. She spoke about the need to raise awareness and media literacy to empower women and girls to recognize and combat gender-based disinformation.

During the interview, she shared concrete examples of gender-based disinformation that have impacted the Bosnian community and highlighted the crucial role that responsible and independent media play in promoting accurate and unbiased information. Deputy Prime Minister Rexhepi called for a joint commitment from state institutions, non-governmental organizations, and the international community to address this issue and create a safer and fairer environment for all citizens, regardless of gender.

At the end of the interview, Emilija Rexhepi encouraged Bosnian women and girls to raise their voices and actively engage in combating disinformation, urging them to seek support from their families and relevant institutions to protect their rights and dignity.

HRN Network