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30 November: what is celebrated today
The last day of November is a mosaic of human, technological, and social causes. On the same day, remembrance of the victims of chemical warfare coincides with reflection on digital dangers, the quiet fight against eating disorders, and the culture of physical and mental wellbeing that dominates social media. It is a day to remember, protect, prevent, and communicate, where science, health, and communication are woven together by a common thread: responsibility towards others.
Commemoration Day for All Victims of Chemical Warfare
Every 30 November, the world pays tribute to those who lost their lives or suffered the consequences of the use of chemical weapons. The observance, proclaimed by the UN in 1997, recalls the more than one hundred thousand deaths and one million victims caused by toxic gases during the First World War.
The day also reaffirms the commitment of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), winner of the 2013 Nobel Peace Prize, to definitively eradicate these instruments of destruction. Behind every treaty and every dismantled laboratory lies a promise: that science will never again be used against human life.
International Computer Security Day
On 30 November 1988, the digital world suffered its first major attack: the Morris computer worm. That event changed the history of the Internet and gave rise to this date, promoted by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), to foster data protection and cyber awareness.
Today, in the midst of the cloud and artificial intelligence era, computer security is as vital as physical security. Protecting passwords, avoiding public networks, updating systems or detecting digital fraud are acts of everyday defence. This day reminds us that every click can be an open door or an invisible shield.
International Day for the Fight against Eating Disorders (TCA)
Since 2012, this day has symbolised empathy for those facing illnesses such as anorexia, bulimia or binge-eating disorder. It all began with a group of women who, from a Facebook page, decided to make their struggle visible and build a support network. They chose a light blue ribbon on the left wrist as their emblem: the colour of hope, faith and solidarity.
Eating disorders are not only a matter of appearance, but of mental health. This day seeks to break silence and stigma, reminding us that recovery is possible with support, medical care and social understanding. In a world that values the superficial, this observance teaches us to look with compassion.
Influencer Day
In contrast to tragedies and struggles, 30 November also celebrates those who have turned digital communication into a tool for global connection: influencers. They are storytellers of their time, capable of generating trends, promoting causes and bringing brands closer to millions of people with just one story or video.
Beyond fame, this date invites reflection on the responsibility that comes with influence. A ‘post’ can inspire, teach or manipulate. Celebrating Influencer Day means recognising the power of the digital voice, but also the need to use it with ethics, empathy and purpose.