Give blood, give hope: together we save lives

On 14 June, the world celebrates World Blood Donor Day, a global tribute to the millions of voluntary, unpaid blood donors who give others a second chance at life. Their generosity saves lives, strengthens communities and embodies the spirit of solidarity. It’s a day to say thank you, but also to spotlight the ongoing, urgent need for safe, regular blood donations.

This year, we honour hope, the kind you give with every drop of blood. Because millions of patients around the world rely on blood transfusions every year, hope flows through every donation.

The World Health Organization’s objectives of the campaign:

  • raise public awareness about the critical need for blood and plasma donations and the impact they have on patients’ lives;
  • encourage both new and existing donors to give blood regularly, helping to ensure a stable and sufficient blood supply;
  • highlight the positive impact of blood donors on the health and well-being of others and promote the values of solidarity, compassion, and community through blood donation; and
  • mobilize support from governments and development partners to invest in and sustain national blood programs to achieve universal access to safe blood transfusion worldwide.

Key messages

  • Safe blood saves lives. A single donation can help save up to three lives.
  • Every blood donation is a gift of hope. It can mean the difference between life and death for patients in need of transfusions.
  • Blood donation is a collective effort and a powerful act of solidarity. By coming together as a community of donors, we ensure a steady and safe blood supply for all who need it.
  • Anyone, anywhere, who needs a transfusion should have timely access to safe blood. Yet in many cases, particularly in emergencies or where donation systems are still developing, the demand often outpaces the supply.
  • Everyone who can donate blood should consider making regular voluntary, unpaid donations, so that all countries have adequate and reliable blood supplies.
  • Access to safe blood and blood product is essential for universal health coverage and a key component of effective health systems.

What you can do

  • Be a voluntary blood donor and an inspiration to others.
  • Commit to being a regular donor and give blood throughout the year.
  • Encourage your friends and family to become regular blood donors.
  • Volunteer with the blood service to reach out to members of your community, provide care to donors, and help manage blood donation sessions/drives.
  • Find out your blood type and register as a blood donor.
  • Participate in World Blood Donor Day with your social networks.