World Prematurity Day, observed every year on November 17, is a global awareness day dedicated to highlighting the challenges and impact of preterm birth. It serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to improve care for preterm infants and support for their families around the world.

Launched in 2008 by EFCNI and a group of European parent organizations, the initiative quickly expanded into an intercontinental movement with the support of international co-founders: LittleBigSouls (Africa), March of Dimes (USA), and the National Premmie Foundation (Australia). Today, thousands of individuals and organizations across more than 100 countries unite through events, campaigns, and advocacy efforts to drive change and improve outcomes for babies born too soon.

On this page, you’ll find a variety of awareness materials, event ideas, and resources to help you celebrate World Prematurity Day in your community. Everyone is invited to take part—from parent organizations, hospitals, and non-profits, to medical professionals, companies, politicians, and individuals. No matter your resources, even small actions can create a big impact.

Two powerful symbols represent this day:

• The color purple, symbolizing sensitivity and uniqueness.

   

• The iconic socksline: a small pair of purple baby socks surrounded by nine full-sized socks, illustrating that 1 in 10 babies is born prematurely—worldwide.

World Prematurity Day Is Officially Incorporated into WHO Calendar

The World Health Assembly has officially designated November 17 as World Prematurity Day! First launched in 2008 by EFCNI (now GFCNI) and a coalition of European parent and patient organizations, this awareness day has grown into a worldwide movement. The recent WHO endorsement is a major step forward – calling on governments around the world to prioritize preterm birth in their national health agendas. 

"As one of the founding organizations of World Prematurity Day in 2008, we at GFCNI are deeply proud to see it officially recognized by the World Health Organization, “says Silke Mader. “This milestone is a tribute to our tireless efforts together with parent and patient organizations, healthcare professionals, and advocates around the world. A heartfelt thank you to Doris, whose dedication made this endorsement possible. Together, we have turned a vision into a worldwide movement for preterm babies and their families."

“This is truly a huge milestone for the global movement for premature babies,” says Doris Mollel, founder of the Doris Mollel Foundation in Tanzania, whose tirelessly advocacy, supported by the Tanzanian government, has been pivotal in bringing global attention to the needs of preterm infants. “This is just the beginning. Together, we are building a future where every child has a fighting chance, and every life matters.”

We’re already looking ahead to World Prematurity Day 2025, taking place on November 17. The official theme for this year’s awareness day will be announced soon.

Please check back in the fall of 2025 for the latest updates, downloadable awareness materials, and ideas on how to get involved in this global movement to support preterm babies and their families.

Stay tuned!

On November 17, 2024, the global community came together once again to recognize World Prematurity Day under the theme:

“Over 13 million babies born too soon every year. Access to quality care everywhere!”

This powerful message emphasized the critical need for equitable access to essential care for preterm babies and their families—no matter where they are born or the challenges they face.

From illuminating landmarks and hosting educational webinars, to launching storytelling campaigns, organizing hospital visits, and driving impactful social media initiatives, this year's observance witnessed extraordinary global participation. Individuals, parent organizations, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups around the world united to raise awareness and inspire action.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the World Prematurity Day Coordinating Committee for their leadership and dedication in shaping this year's efforts. Our heartfelt thanks also go out to every individual and organization that contributed to spreading awareness and championing the cause of preterm and sick newborns.

Together, we continue to shine a light on the most vulnerable members of our society—advocating for the care and support they need and deserve.

Want to see how the world celebrated? Explore our event summary for a closer look at the inspiring activities organized by parent groups, hospitals, medical societies, corporate supporters, and individual advocates: