World Toilet Day
Sanitation is not a luxury — 2 billion people are waiting for what you take for granted.
About
World Toilet Day on November 19 addresses the sanitation crisis — 2 billion people worldwide still lack access to safe, managed sanitation. The lack of adequate toilets and sanitation causes enormous suffering: open defecation spreads disease, particularly for children; lack of privacy toilets in schools drives girls to drop out; and the absence of sanitation in health facilities compromises basic healthcare. UN-Water uses the day to galvanise action on SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
History
World Toilet Day was founded by the World Toilet Organization (WTO) in 2001 and became an official United Nations observance in July 2013. The WTO was established by Singaporean social entrepreneur Jack Sim, who recognised that the taboo around discussing toilets was itself a barrier to solving the sanitation crisis. Breaking the taboo through humour and advocacy has been central to the day's success.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The US has near-universal sanitation access, but World Toilet Day highlights disparities in rural areas and the experiences of unhoused people. The day also raises awareness of global sanitation aid funded by USAID and US-based NGOs like Water For People.
KR South Korea
South Korea, which has one of the world's most celebrated public bathroom cultures (ultra-clean, well-equipped facilities), uses the day to contribute to global sanitation efforts through development aid and support for NGOs working in South and Southeast Asia.
JP Japan
Japan's technologically advanced toilet culture — home of the Washlet and sensor-activated everything — uses World Toilet Day to reflect on global sanitation inequality and Japan's contributions to toilet technology in development contexts.
How to Participate
- 01Donate to a sanitation-focused charity like WaterAid or Sanitation First
- 02Learn about the connection between sanitation and child health outcomes globally
- 03Appreciate the toilet you have — and advocate for universal sanitation access
- 04Share World Toilet Day's message without embarrassment — the taboo is part of the problem
Frequently asked questions
When is World Toilet Day?+
World Toilet Day is observed annually on November 19. The date is fixed each year — November 19 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Toilet Day?+
World Toilet Day on November 19 addresses the sanitation crisis — 2 billion people worldwide still lack access to safe, managed sanitation. The lack of adequate toilets and sanitation causes enormous suffering: open defecation spreads disease, particularly for children; lack of privacy toilets in sc…
Is World Toilet Day a public holiday?+
World Toilet 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 World Toilet Day?+
Donate to a sanitation-focused charity like WaterAid or Sanitation First Learn about the connection between sanitation and child health outcomes globally Appreciate the toilet you have — and advocate for universal sanitation access These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Toilet Day?+
Global — United Nations initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Toilet Day.