International Day of Neutrality is observed every year on 12th December to advertise the importance of neutrality and mediation in de-escalating conflicts and maintaining global peace and security.
The United Nations General Assembly in February 2017 declared 12 December as the International Day of Neutrality by adopting a resolution which noted the link between the preservation of peace and the Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030.
The resolution 71/275 was proposed by Turkmenistan which is recognized by the United Nations as a permanently neutral state since December 12, 1995. The resolution was adopted by the General Assembly without a vote.
This General Assembly resolution also proposes that the United Nation Secretary General continue to cooperate closely with the neutral states, with a view to implementing the principles of preventive diplomacy and utilizing them in the mediation activities.
United Nations define neutrality as the legal status arising from the abstention of a state from all participation in a war between other states, the maintenance of an attitude of impartiality toward the belligerents, and recognition by the belligerents of this abstention and impartiality.
In its resolution the General Assembly reaffirmed the obligations made in the Article 2 of the United Nations Charter which obliges the member states to settle their international disputes by peaceful means and to refrain from threats, or use of force in their relations.
The resolution also highlighted that the national policy of neutrality by some states can effectively contribute to strengthening international peace and security.
It also underlines its significant role in developing mutually beneficial relations among countries of the World.
Also Read: Pakistan commemorates Human Rights Day
It is important to note that the policy of neutrality is a key factor for providing conditions and building a platform for peaceful negotiations.
Furthermore, it is closely interconnected with and based on the tools of preventive diplomacy. Preventive diplomacy is a core function of the United Nations and is central to the role of the United Nations Secretary General.
){kind=link}