The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 4 February as the International Day of Human Fraternity, to recognize the valuable contribution of people of all religions, or beliefs, to humanity and the contribution that dialogue among all religious groups can make towards an improved awareness and understanding of the common values shared by all humankind.
In simple terms, the International Day of Human Fraternity aims to promote interfaith and intercultural dialogue, tolerance, and understanding. It advertises the importance of promoting a culture of peace and solidarity among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
Following the devastation of the Second World War, the United Nations was established to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.
One of its purposes is to achieve international cooperation in solving international problems, including by promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.
At the core of all the faith systems and traditions is the recognition that we are all in this together and that we need to love and support one another to live in harmony and peace in an environmentally sustainable world.
Our world continues to be beset by conflict and intolerance with rising numbers of refugees and the internally displaced in a hostile and unwelcoming world around them. We are also, unfortunately, witnessing messages of hate spreading discord among people.
Subsequently, the need for spiritual guidance has never been greater. Also, the efforts to spread the message of good neighborliness based on our common humanity, a message shared by all faith traditions, should be doubled.
Antonio Guterres on Human Fraternity Day
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres in his statement for the International Day of Human Fraternity expressed that today we celebrate the spirit of mutual respect and solidarity that binds us together as one human family.
Furthermore, according to him, values like mutual respect and solidarity are being severely tested. Divisions, conflicts, and inequalities mar our world today. Moreover, discrimination among people is running rampant.
In addition, he said that we must come together to protect and uphold human rights, combat hate speech and violent extremism, and push back against those who profit from fear.
Particularly, we can take inspiration from the declaration “Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together,” co-authored by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed El Tayeb, to work towards a world where dialogue, compassion, and human dignity prevail.
Also Read: International Week of Interfaith Harmony
Lastly, he urged us to reaffirm our commitment to bridging divides, and fostering religious understanding and cooperation among people of all cultures and beliefs. Together, let us forge a path towards a more peaceful, just, and harmonious world for all.
