21/03/2026
Practiced across cultures and throughout history, poetry speaks to our shared humanity, transforming words into a powerful force for dialogue, understanding and peace.
Marked every year on 21 March, World Poetry Day honours one of humanity’s most treasured forms of cultural and linguistic expression. It is an opportunity to highlight poets, revive oral traditions, and promote the reading, writing and teaching of poetry worldwide.
From advancing literacy worldwide, to promoting reading through initiatives such as the World Book Capital, and spotlighting books and authors on World Book and Copyright Day, UNESCO works across sectors to foster a culture of reading, creativity and knowledge-sharing.
Through its programmes and initiatives, UNESCO also supports linguistic diversity, safeguards endangered languages, and promotes cultural expression in all its forms — ensuring that poetry continues to connect people across borders and generations.
➡️ Discover more: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/poetry
