International Day for Biological Diversity
This is a United Nations sanctioned international day for the promotion of biodiversity issues. It was created by the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly in 1993 and until 2000 it was held on 29th December to celebrate the day the Convention on Biological Diversity went into effect. On 20th December 2000 the date was shifted to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on 22nd May 1992 at the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, and partly to avoid the many other holidays that occur in late December. There is a theme each year, this year’s is “Acting locally for global impact”.
Martinique Abolition of Slavery Day
This is observed every 22nd May, which goes by Emancipation Day in some former colonies. It celebrates the emancipation of slaves in the French overseas region of Martinique in 1848, later than many parts of the world. This was only because of a major revolt on the island which couldn’t be stopped, so the governor quickly declared slavery was abolished to stop the fighting. A national holiday, it takes the form of singing, dancing, parades, speeches, conferences and plays in many major cities on the island.
Yemen Unity Day
This is a national holiday that commemorates the unification of North Yemen and South Yemen which took place on 22nd May 1990. The President makes a speech broadcast on television and radio, and award state decorations and orders to Yemeni citizens.
Holidays & Special Events 