On 12 December 2019, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution designating 20 July as World Chess Day, marking the date the International Chess Federation (FIDE) was founded in Paris in 1924. UNESCO had first proposed the idea of an international chess day back in 1966, recognizing the enduring value of a game with roots stretching back centuries across many cultures. The UN resolution highlights chess's contribution to education, gender equality, and social inclusion, as a game that draws no distinctions based on age, gender, or background, relying instead on logical thinking, strategic planning, and problem-solving. National federations, schools, and clubs worldwide mark the day with tournaments, free training sessions, and community events bringing together players of all ages and skill levels, aiming to bring the game closer to the general public and highlight its cognitive and educational benefits.