International Customs Day is celebrated every 26th of January each year. This day recognizes the importance and the role of customs officials and agencies in ensuring that the borders of our countries are secure. This day also sheds light on the working conditions of customs workers and the challenges that they face in their respective jobs.
About the International Customs Day
During this day, customs agencies organize events where they can show their appreciation to their employees. In particular, they give recognition to those who have done exemplary service. Other activities include conferences, workshops, and talks about the theme of the annual celebration. Also brought to the table are the challenges faced by the customs agencies and officers.
Various agencies organize public outreach events in order to inform the public about what they do and their responsibilities in the customs field. Take note that International Customs Day is not an official holiday. That is why government offices, schools, universities, and businesses are open during this day.
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Customs Day History
International Customs Day is founded by the World Customs Organization. They chose the date of January 26 to commemorate the inaugural session of the Customs Cooperation Council (CCC) held in Brussels, Belgium on January 26, 1953. This session was attended by seventeen counties. In 1994, the CCC was renamed into World Customs Organization (WCO). There are currently 179 countries that are members of the WCO.
Dates Of Customs Day
As mentioned earlier, International Customs Day is celebrated every January 26 each year.
Why Celebrate Customs Day
The following are the main reasons why you should participate in the celebration of International Customs Day:
To Know the Importance of Customs Officials
One good reason for you to celebrate this day is that this is the opportune time for you to know the importance of customs officials. These people work tirelessly to be able to make sure that the borders of our countries are secure. They also make sure that goods and products entering the country are official and will bring no harm to the citizens.
To Gain an Understanding of International Customs
Also a good reason to celebrate this day is that by doing so, you can gain a full understanding of international customs. Let us all be honest by acknowledging the fact that we don’t know much about customs officials and their jobs. Celebrating this event gives you time to gain this understanding and necessary knowledge.
To Honor Customs Agencies
You should celebrate this day to be able to honor customs agencies. They have hardworking employees which is why their organizations successfully operate. They make sure that our borders are secure and hence, they have to get the recognition that they deserve.
International Customs Day Celebration Ideas and Activities
The following are the best things to do to make your celebration of the International Customs Day as best as it can be:
Thank the Customs Agencies and Officials
One good way to celebrate this day is to thank customs agencies and their officials. If you know someone who works in customs, you can give him or her a gift or a letter to show your appreciation for his or her job.
Tell People about the Job of Customs Employees
You can celebrate this day by telling people about the job of customs employees. This is pretty much disseminating information about why customs agencies and employees are important for a country. By letting people know this importance, they can gain an appreciation of the customs field.
Celebrate on Social Media
You can also take your celebration of this day on social media. For instance, you can use the hashtag #InternationalCustomsDay to let your friends and followers know that you are also participating in the celebration of this day.