May 20 is World Metrology Day, which is celebrated on the occasion of the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on the Meter in Paris in 1875. This agreement provides the basis for a worldwide coherent system of measurement as the foundation of scientific discoveries and innovations, industrial production, international trade, as well as improving the quality of life and protecting the global environment.

The theme of World Metrology Day 2025 "Measurements for all times, for all people" was chosen to highlight the importance of measurements in shaping our past, present and future. This topic gained importance in 2025, due to the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Meter Convention.

To mark this significant anniversary, World Metrology Day 2025 will be at the center of events to celebrate a century and a half of international cooperation in metrology. From ensuring fair trade and advancing scientific discovery to solving global challenges like climate change and public health, measurements are the foundation of progress and innovation. This year's theme also emphasizes inclusivity, recognizing that reliable and trackable measurements are essential to fostering equality and improving the quality of life for all people, everywhere in the world.

Around the world, national metrology laboratories are continuously advancing the science of measurement by developing and validating new measurement techniques at the necessary level of sophistication. National Metrology Institutes participate in measurement comparisons coordinated by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) or regional metrology organizations, to ensure the reliability of measurement results worldwide.

The International Organization for Legal Metrology (OIML) develops international recommendations, which aim to harmonize and harmonize requirements worldwide in many areas. OIML also operates the OIML Certification System (OIML-CS) which facilitates the international acceptance and global trade of regulated measuring instruments.

These international metrology systems provide the necessary assurance and confidence that measurements are accurate, providing a solid foundation for global trade today and helping us prepare for the challenges of tomorrow.

World Metrology Day recognizes and honors the contributions of individuals working in intergovernmental, regional and national metrology organizations and institutes throughout the year. In November 2023, a significant step was taken when the General Conference of UNESCO, during its 42nd session, officially recognized May 20 as World Metrology Day. In this way, the key role of metrology in the improvement of global scientific cooperation is highlighted, and at the same time, new opportunities are opened for the promotion of metrology, aligning with the mission of UNESCO to build a better world through science and education.

Source: World Metrology Day - 20 May 2025