World Pneumonia Day was launched on November 12, 2009, by the Global Coalition against Child Pneumonia, an alliance of more than 100 child-health organizations. Alongside its launch, the WHO and UNICEF released the Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Pneumonia. Despite the availability of effective, low-cost vaccines and treatments, pneumonia remains a leading cause of death among children under five worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The day mobilizes political and public support to expand vaccination coverage, improve access to healthcare, and address risk factors such as malnutrition and indoor air pollution. Health ministries and health organizations mark the day with vaccination drives, awareness campaigns about symptoms and prevention, and annual reports tracking progress in reducing pneumonia deaths.