The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). On 23 September 1950, the Federation was officially founded in Amsterdam by a small group of visionaries who understood the urgent need to unite national diabetes associations across borders. Led by its first President, Dr Robert Daniel Lawrence (UK), the Federation began its mission to improve the lives of people with diabetes worldwide.
From a modest start with 16 member associations, we have evolved into a truly global organisation representing 160 countries and territories. Our work has consistently focused on advocacy, education and raising awareness, while amplifying the voice of people affected by diabetes in all its forms.
Timeline of our history
Anniversary wishes from our community
Anniversary celebration, EASD 2025 Vienna
Milestones in IDF’s history
1952
The first International Diabetes Federation Congress is held in Leiden, the Netherlands, setting a precedent for global knowledge exchange on diabetes care and research.
1957
IDF establishes official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO), initiating a long-standing collaboration in the fight against diabetes.
1982
IDF undergoes a transformative restructuring, forming seven regions to enhance local representation and responsiveness.
1984
The hummingbird, a symbol of hope and resilience, is first adopted into the IDF logo.
1991
World Diabetes Day is launched by IDF and WHO in response to the rising number of people living diabetes.
2000
The first Diabetes Atlas is published, providing global, regional and national data on diabetes prevalence. The year also sees the launch of the Life for a Child programme, providing life-saving support to children with diabetes in low- and middle-income countries.
2006
World Diabetes Day is recognised as an official United Nations Day following the passage of UN Resolution 61/225, the first for a noncommunicable condition.
2013
The Kids and Diabetes in Schools (KiDS) programme is launched to promote diabetes education in schools.
2016
The IDF School of Diabetes is created, offering accessible, accredited online education for healthcare professionals.
2022
Understanding Diabetes, a digital platform tailored to people living with diabetes and caregivers, is launched.
2024
The Fellowship programme is introduced to develop leadership and expertise in diabetes care and advocacy.
Championing the global diabetes community
Over the decades, the Federation has initiated powerful global campaigns and programmes that have empowered people with diabetes, influenced health policy, and strengthened regional and national advocacy. From the Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) programme to the Blue Circle Voices network, IDF has brought people with lived experience into the centre of the global response.
Through the World Diabetes Congress, we continue to convene the world’s leading experts and advocates in diabetes. The Congress provides a vital platform for scientific advancement, policy dialogue and community building.
Looking forward
As IDF marks 75 years of commitment and change, we honour the countless volunteers, healthcare professionals, policymakers and people living with diabetes who have shaped our journey. While progress has been made, the global burden of diabetes remains immense. The Federation remains dedicated to creating a world where all people with diabetes can live healthy and fulfilling lives, free from stigma and preventable complications.
With unity, innovation and advocacy at its heart, we continue to lead the global fight against diabetes into the future.
IDF@75 activities
Throughout 2025 and 2026, the International Diabetes Federation will share activities on this page to mark its 75th anniversary. Sign up for our e-alerts to receive updates.
You can also:
- Support the work of the Federation by making a one-time donation.
- Become an individual member.
- Apply to become a Fellow.