This year marks a milestone in the history of World NGO Day: the 10th anniversary of this growing international day, coinciding with the 75th Anniversary year of the Council of Europe. It was an honor for Marcis Skadmanis, the founder of World NGO Day, to deliver welcome speeches and share his personal journey of creating this impactful initiative at several significant events commemorating the occasion.

World NGO Day is a celebration of the invaluable contributions made by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), nonprofits, and the millions of individuals who tirelessly dedicate their time and energy to fostering a better world. With over 10 million nonprofit organizations globally and more than 50 million individuals supporting them, the impact of this collective effort is both profound and inspiring.

Recognizing a Decade of Global Impact

Established as a platform to recognize and celebrate NGOs, World NGO Day has grown into an international movement. Each year, February 27th serves as a reminder of the transformative power of civil society, spanning diverse sectors, fields, and regions. Over the past decade, it has become a day to reflect on achievements, highlight challenges, and look forward to a future shaped by innovation and collaboration.

This year’s celebrations took on even greater significance, being integrated into the Council of Europe’s 75th Anniversary activities. The Council’s Conference of International NGOs hosted a hybrid event, “Civic Space, Democracy and Artificial Intelligence: How Do They Intersect?” bringing together representatives of civil society, policymakers, and thought leaders.

Exploring the Intersection of AI, Democracy, and Civil Society

At the event, Marcis Skadmanis had the privilege of speaking alongside notable figures such as Gerhard Ermischer, President of the Conference of INGOs, and Irena Guidikova, Head of the Democratic Institutions and Freedoms Department. The discussions centered on one of today’s most pressing issues: the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy and human rights.

The dialogue explored the ways in which AI is reshaping civic spaces and the role NGOs must play in ensuring that technological advancements are guided by principles of equity, inclusion, and transparency. Francesca Fanucci, the Representative of the Conference of INGOs at the Committee on AI (CAI), provided insights into civil society’s role in shaping the Council of Europe’s convention on AI.

A Decade of Progress, A Future of Opportunity

Looking back over the past 10 years, the journey of World NGO Day has been one of collective effort and shared purpose. What began as an idea to honor the work of NGOs has blossomed into a global movement, celebrated in more than 100 countries.

As we celebrate this milestone, the discussions at the Council of Europe serve as a reminder of the evolving challenges and opportunities facing civil society. From ensuring the protection of democratic freedoms in the age of AI to amplifying the voices of grassroots organizations, the role of NGOs remains as vital as ever.

World NGO Day is not just a celebration—it is a call to action. It is a day to renew our commitment to the principles of service, innovation, and partnership that drive meaningful change in the world. Together, we look forward to a future where the efforts of NGOs continue to inspire progress and build a better tomorrow for all.

To learn more about the Council of Europe’s World NGO Day event, visit Civic Space, Democracy, and ArtificialIntelligence and World NGO Day on the Schools of Political Studies.