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International Development Week (IDW) 2026 will be observed from February 5 to 11, 2026. IDW is an annual event that brings together Canadians from coast to coast to celebrate and share their contributions to international development and humanitarian assistance. The week highlights the important role Canadians play in building a more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous world through global partnerships.
During IDW, hundreds of events and activities are organized across Canada and internationally, celebrating Canadian contributions to poverty eradication, sustainable development, and global peace.
About International Development Week (IDW)
The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) was established in 1968 to manage Canada’s official development assistance (ODA) program. International Development Week was initiated by CIDA in 1990 to support fragile states, countries in crisis, and engage the Canadian public and institutions. The first IDW event was held in 1998, and since then, it has become a key platform for Canadians to promote international development initiatives.
Significance of International Development Week
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
International Development Week is a long-standing Canadian tradition, held annually during the first full week of February. The week celebrates Canadian contributions to global humanitarian activities and offers an opportunity to recognize their role in building a better, sustainable world.
IDW encourages Canadians to actively participate in global development efforts and highlights the importance of collective action in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Start Learning!International Development Week 2026 Theme
The theme for IDW 2026 is yet to be officially announced. In previous years, IDW focused on “Go for the Goals”, emphasizing the importance of the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
| Year | Theme |
|---|---|
| 2020 | Go for the Goals – Supporting the UN SDGs |
| 2021 | Go for the Goals – Continued focus on the SDGs |
| 2022 | Go for the Goals – Ongoing commitment to the SDGs |
| 2023 | Go for the Goals – Emphasis on achieving the SDGs |
| 2024 | Go for the Goals – Continued focus on the SDGs |
| 2025 | Data for Positive Change – Empowering Communities & Advancing Research |
The recurring theme underlines Canada’s commitment to global development, sustainability, and innovation.
How to Celebrate International Development Week 2026
Canadians and global supporters can participate in IDW 2026 through various activities:
- Attend IDW events organized by local institutions, NGOs, and government bodies.
- Share your story on social media using the official IDW hashtag.
- Adopt sustainable practices such as cycling, reducing plastic use, or supporting education initiatives.
- Educate your community about global issues and encourage solutions.
- Promote sustainability in daily life through mindful consumption and eco-friendly choices.
- Read books or research on global development to increase awareness.
International Development Week 2026 in India
Even in India, IDW can be a platform to raise awareness about global issues:
- Schools can organize essay contests and awareness programs on international development.
- Community organizations can host speakers, workshops, and fair-trade markets.
- Media can publish stories and reports to highlight the week’s significance.
International Development Week emphasizes collective action, from grassroots to leadership, to address climate change, reduce social inequities, and promote global peace. Women’s empowerment is also a key focus, highlighting the importance of gender equality and women’s leadership in peacebuilding and development.
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Start Learning!International Development Week 2026 Quiz:
1. When will International Development Week (IDW) 2026 be observed?
2. What is the main goal of International Development Week (IDW)?
3. Which organization was responsible for establishing International Development Week?
4. In which year was International Development Week first initiated?
5. What was the theme of International Development Week from 2020 to 2024?
6. What is the theme of International Development Week 2026?
7. Which of the following is an example of a way to contribute during International Development Week 2025?
8. What was one of the activities suggested for participation during IDW 2026?
9. What was the key focus in the 2025 theme “Data for Positive Change”?
10. How can India participate in International Development Week 2026?
