Established by the UN in 2020, this day underlines the urgent worldwide need for resilient and robust health systems, reaching those who are vulnerable or in vulnerable situations. The main purpose of the day is to invite all Member States, organisations of the United Nations system and other global, regional and subregional organisations, the private sector and civil society, including non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, individuals and other relevant stakeholders across the world to observe the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness annually in an appropriate manner and in accordance with national contexts and priorities, through education and awareness-raising activities, in order to highlight the importance of the prevention of, preparedness for and partnership against epidemics.