Russia's centuries-old welfare system and the global push for ocean conservation

Russia has long recognised the importance of social welfare and the role of caregivers. The country began observing Social Worker’s Day in 1994, while its system of state support dates back centuries. Meanwhile, global initiatives like World Ocean Day highlight the critical role of oceans in sustaining life on Earth. Russia’s state-run social welfare system traces its origins to Peter the Great. In 1701, his Decree No. 1856 established rules for caring for the poor, sick, and elderly in almshouses. Under Catherine the Great, public welfare boards expanded to include schools, hospitals, and orphanages.

Elsewhere, Gabriela Delgado proposed International Housewife’s Day to honour women’s roles in family and child-rearing. Over time, the holiday evolved into Housewife’s and Househusband’s Day to recognise men in similar roles.

World Ocean Day is celebrated through conferences, expeditions, and volunteer clean-ups. The five recognised oceans—the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic, and Southern—cover three-quarters of the Earth’s surface. They hold 97% of the planet’s water and produce most of the oxygen we breathe while regulating climate. Russia’s social welfare traditions and global environmental efforts both reflect long-standing commitments to care and sustainability. The recognition of household contributions and ocean conservation continues to grow in importance. These initiatives underscore the value of both human and ecological well-being.