Observed annually on 14 June — the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, discoverer of the ABO blood group system — this WHO-led day honors voluntary, unpaid blood donors whose contributions support patients in emergencies, childbirth, surgeries, and cancer treatment.
Theme Focus
WHO's 2026 theme places humanity at the heart of every blood donation, framing it as more than a medical act — an expression of solidarity, compassion, and collective responsibility. It calls on governments to strengthen and invest in national blood programs to achieve universal access to safe blood transfusion, and highlights that a minimum of 1–2% of the population needs to donate regularly to meet national needs.
Key Priorities
Organizing community blood donation drives.
Improving blood screening technologies.
Encouraging repeat donations.
Raising awareness about eligibility criteria.
Strengthening national blood transfusion services.
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