International Missing Children's Day
Every missing child is someone's whole world — keep searching.
About
International Missing Children's Day on May 25 is a day to remember children who have gone missing and to honour the work of organisations that search for them, reunite families, and protect children from abduction, exploitation, and trafficking. Millions of children are reported missing globally each year — most are found quickly, but a significant number remain missing for extended periods, and others are victims of trafficking or non-parental abduction. The day raises awareness of missing children's hotlines, prevention programmes, and international cooperation frameworks that facilitate cross-border searches. It also honours the children who were never found and the families who live with permanent uncertainty. In an era of digital communication, the day also addresses online safety — as the internet has both created new tools for finding missing children and new vectors through which predators operate.
History
May 25 was designated International Missing Children's Day following the disappearance of Etan Patz in New York City on May 25, 1979 — one of the first missing children cases to receive widespread media attention. In 1983, President Ronald Reagan designated May 25 as National Missing Children's Day in the US. The date was later adopted internationally by the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC).
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) coordinates US efforts, operating the CyberTipline and the Amber Alert system. May 25 is marked with events across the country and renewed campaigns to register children's identifying information.
KR South Korea
South Korea operates a dedicated missing children centre and participates in international cooperation for cross-border cases. The day is used to promote child safety education in schools and raise awareness of reporting resources among parents and caregivers.
JP Japan
Japan marks the day through the activities of child safety organisations and law enforcement. Cross-border parental abduction cases — many involving Japan — have brought significant international attention to the country's missing children policies.
How to Participate
- 01Learn how to report a missing child in your country and share that information
- 02Talk to children in your life about personal safety, trusted adults, and online safety
- 03Support organisations working on child protection and family reunification
- 04Learn about the Amber Alert system and international equivalents
Frequently asked questions
When is International Missing Children's Day?+
International Missing Children's Day is observed annually on May 25. The date is fixed each year — May 25 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is International Missing Children's Day?+
International Missing Children's Day on May 25 is a day to remember children who have gone missing and to honour the work of organisations that search for them, reunite families, and protect children from abduction, exploitation, and trafficking. Millions of children are reported missing globally ea…
Is International Missing Children's Day a public holiday?+
International Missing Children's Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in International Missing Children's Day?+
Learn how to report a missing child in your country and share that information Talk to children in your life about personal safety, trusted adults, and online safety Support organisations working on child protection and family reunification These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe International Missing Children's Day?+
Global — International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss International Missing Children's Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan