Every year on May 16, the International Day of Living Together in Peace is celebrated. It acts as a global reminder of the significance of mutual respect, inclusiveness, and harmony among people of varied backgrounds.
The International Day was established in December 2017 by the United Nations General Assembly. The day underlines the importance of fostering peace, tolerance and solidarity, which are crucial for sustainable development and the overall well-being of societies worldwide.
Living together in peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is a proactive state of mutual understanding, cooperation, and acceptance. In an increasingly interconnected world, where globalization and technological advancements bring diverse cultures closer, fostering a culture of peace becomes critical.
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The International Day of Living Together in Peace calls on individuals, communities, and nations to embrace differences, resolve conflicts through dialogue, and work collaboratively towards a just and peaceful world.
During the day, various organizations and institutes took to Twitter to convey their congratulations and express their views.
The official account of the United Nations celebrates the day by saying, “In conflict, civilians always pay the highest price. War is not the answer. We need peace.”
Additionally, UN humanitarians gave a reminder on the International Day of Living Together in Peace: “Conflict is the leading source of human pain and suffering. The world needs peace, tolerance, inclusion, solidarity, understanding, and unity. The more of these values we have, the less humanitarian aid we’ll require.”
Moreover, the Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA) expressed its view on the occasion: “Today, as we commemorate the International Day of Living Together in Peace, we are reminded to uphold the desire to live and act together, united in differences and diversity, to build a sustainable world of peace, solidarity, and harmony.”
Celebrating this day includes different activities aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation. Educational programs, cultural exchanges, and community-building initiatives highlight the shared human values that transcend national, cultural, and religious boundaries.
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In regions plagued by conflict, the International Day of Living Together in Peace is a beacon of hope and a call to action. It reminds us that peace is a collective responsibility requiring the participation of all stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and individuals.
The International Day of Living Together in Peace is a crucial observance that reinforces the ideals of coexistence and unity. It serves as a powerful reminder that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, equality, and mutual respect.
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