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1 December: what is celebrated today
The first day of December opens the last month of the year with a multifaceted message: awareness, memory, science and hope. From the fight against HIV to the defence of peace, recognition for pharmacists, Costa Rica's courage in abolishing its army and the spiritual beginning of Advent, this day brings together causes that speak of health, freedom and faith in humanity.
World AIDS Day
Since 1988, every 1 December the world has come together under a red ribbon to remember those living with HIV and those who have lost their lives to this disease. It is the first global date dedicated to public health, promoted by the World Health Organization and UNAIDS.
The 2024 slogan, “Follow the path of rights”, underlines that only by guaranteeing equality and inclusion can AIDS be ended as a health threat. Millions of people now have access to antiretroviral treatments that were a privilege twenty years ago. Even so, stigma and inequality persist. This day is a reminder that the fight against AIDS is not only medical: it is a fight for dignity and human rights.
International Day of Peace Prisoners
Every 1 December also honours those who have been imprisoned for refusing to take part in wars or for defending non-violence. The observance, promoted by the War Resisters’ International, pays tribute to conscientious objectors who choose peace even at the cost of their freedom.
In many parts of the world, solidarity letter-writing campaigns are organised for pacifist prisoners, reminding us that objection is not weakness, but moral courage. True peace—they say—begins when someone refuses to take up a weapon.
Pan-American Pharmacy Day
Health has a human face in those who prepare and dispense medicines. This day, established in 1948 during the First Pan-American Congress of Pharmacy in Havana, pays tribute to pharmaceutical professionals in Latin America.
The Bowl of Hygieia, with the snake coiled around the chalice, symbolises knowledge, prudence and healing power. More than custodians of prescriptions, pharmacists are guardians of trust and public health.
Day of the Abolition of the Army (Costa Rica)
On 1 December 1948, Costa Rica gave the world a lesson in civic-mindedness: it abolished its army forever. Since then, resources allocated to defence have been invested in education, culture and health.
This historic event, enshrined in the 1949 Constitution, made the country a symbol of peace and democracy. In schools, the Song of the Abolition of the Army is sung, and the date is a national holiday. While other countries spend on weapons, Costa Rica shows that security can be based on social justice.
First Sunday of Advent
The Christian calendar opens the season of Advent: four weeks of spiritual preparation before Christmas. The first candle of the Advent wreath is lit, a symbol of hope, love and light.
Advent invites silence and introspection. It is the announcement of a new beginning, the cycle that brings faith and renewal together. The purple and pink candles, lit each Sunday, remind us that waiting can also be a form of joy.