Intl Men's Day to promote gender equality

KARACHI: International Men's Day will be observed on Saturday November 19 in a number of countries to promote gender equality. This day was first celebrated in 1999 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Now it is celebrated in over 50 countries including Pakistan, India, USA, Canada, South Africa, UK etc.

International Men's Day is observed to meet the goals of improving men's and boy's health; improvement of gender relations; promotion of gender equality; promotion of positive male role models.

This day also gives an opportunity for men to highlight the discrimination against them. It is considered as an occasion to celebrate men's achievements and contributions to community, family, marriage and childcare in particular.

International Men's Day is followed by Universal Children's Day on November 20 and forms a 48-hour celebration firstly of men, then children respectively. Thus it interfaces with children's day as well, with recognition of the bonds between them.-PPI