Every year on June 14, countries around the world observe World Blood Donor Day, an international event dedicated to thanking people who voluntarily donate blood, while also raising awareness of the constant need for safe blood supplies in healthcare systems.
The day was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) and officially endorsed by the World Health Assembly in 2005.
The date was chosen to honor the birthday of Austrian scientist Karl Landsteiner, who discovered the ABO blood group system and laid the foundation for modern transfusion medicine. He was later awarded the Nobel Prize for his groundbreaking work.
According to the WHO, donated blood saves lives every day. It is essential for patients injured in accidents, people undergoing major surgeries, cancer patients, and those suffering from severe chronic illnesses. Reliable blood supplies remain a cornerstone of modern healthcare.
The theme of World Blood Donor Day 2026 is “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.” The campaign highlights the importance of solidarity and reminds people that a single blood donation can make a life-saving difference for others.
Blood donation has become especially important for Ukraine during the full-scale war. Donated blood is needed not only for wounded service members but also for civilians injured in Russian attacks. Ukrainian medical institutions regularly call on citizens to donate blood to help maintain critical reserves.
World Blood Donor Day serves as an opportunity not only to thank donors for their generosity but also to remind everyone that one donation can help save multiple lives.
