For the 16th edition of Rare Disease Day, over 100 countries and regions joined their voices, organising more than 800 events worldwide.

This year’s campaign welcomed three new National Alliance partners: Israel, Guinea-Bissau, and Tanzania.

As part of the Global Chain of Lights, iconic landmarks, including the Tokyo Tower, were illuminated to raise awareness for people living with rare diseases, spreading hope and colour across the world.

The 2023 official video was made available in 48 languages.

Rare Disease Day continued to grow worldwide, with over 800 events marking Rare Disease Day 2023. Participants were invited to “Light Up for Rare” and spread the message “Share Your Colours.”

Rare Disease Day 2023 began with a successful webinar introducing resources designed to support the campaign. The webinar was replayed 1,366 times, and materials were translated into multiple languages, including Key Statistics and Infographic cards in six languages, virtual backgrounds in 44 languages, and the official video in 48 languages.

The Rare Disease Day Facebook page reached over 10 million people, while the Instagram page reached over 3 million.

Additionally, 69% of young people who knew about the #RareDiseaseDay challenge engaged by posting reels over the 28 days leading up to the event.