World Horse Day observed annually on 11 July 2025.
Important Days
World Horse Day, observed annually on July 11, honours the enduring bond between humans and horses. Established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2025 through Resolution 79/291, the day spotlights horses’ roles in agriculture, transport, culture, therapy, and economy.
- The UNGA adopted the resolution on 3 June 2025 during its 79th session, backed by a vote of 169 in favour, 1 against (United States), and no abstentions. Sponsored by Mongolia and supported by 56 nations—including Austria, Brazil, China, Germany, Japan, Qatar, and Türkiye—the resolution designates July 11 as World Horse Day to raise global awareness of horses’ social, economic, and cultural value.
- UN data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates a global horse population of approximately 57 million used in riding, draft work, racing, sports, tourism, healthcare, and food production.
- In the United States alone there are 2.41 million horses across 63,000 farms (2022 USDA), while the EU’s equine sector accounts for around 7 million equines and supports 800,000 jobs. Mongolia’s nomadic communities maintain a near one-to-one ratio of horses to people, with 3.4 million horses for 3.3 million population.
Main Point :- (i) World Horse Day serves as a call to action, urging governments, NGOs, businesses, schools, and individuals to engage in welfare initiatives, research, education, and cultural preservation. It also highlights key threats to equines, including habitat loss, climate change—with 2024 being the first year above +1.5 °C warming—economic stress, and technological displacement.
(ii) The resolution encourages adoption of best practices like equine husbandry, climate-adaptive protocols (e.g. misting lanes at equestrian events), and support for rural livelihoods reliant on horses.
(iii) Ultimately, World Horse Day underscores horses' multifaceted contributions—from sustainable agriculture and rural economies to cultural heritage and therapy. By engaging in rescue centre visits, fundraising, education, sport and welfare advocacy, the global community amplifies efforts to safeguard the welfare of these majestic animals and preserve their essential roles in our shared heritage.
____________________________
