In 1996, prompted by the United Nations Year for Tolerance, the General Assembly declared November 16th as the International Day for Tolerance. This decision was made in order to promote tolerance and understanding among nations and individuals, with a special focus on educational institutions and the general public. The declaration was influenced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) member States' adoption of the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action in 1995.
International Day for Tolerance: Promoting Understanding and Inclusion
Background
The International Day for Tolerance was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1996, following the UN Year for Tolerance. The declaration was influenced by the adoption of the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action by UNESCO member states in 1995.
The purpose of this annual observance is to promote tolerance and understanding among nations, individuals, and societies. It emphasizes the importance of education in fostering these values and addresses issues such as discrimination, prejudice, and violence.
Observance
The International Day for Tolerance is observed on November 16th each year with a variety of events and activities around the world. These include:
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is tolerance?
Tolerance is the ability to accept and respect differences in beliefs, opinions, and lifestyles. It involves understanding and valuing the perspectives of others, even if we do not agree with them.
2. Why is tolerance important?
Tolerance is essential for creating peaceful and harmonious societies. It prevents discrimination, promotes dialogue, and fosters mutual understanding.
3. What are some common forms of intolerance?
Intolerance can manifest itself in various ways, including racism, sexism, homophobia, xenophobia, and religious intolerance.
4. How can we promote tolerance?
We can promote tolerance through education, open dialogue, and personal interactions with people from diverse backgrounds. It is also important to challenge stereotypes and prejudices.
5. What has been the impact of the International Day for Tolerance?
Since its inception, the International Day for Tolerance has raised awareness about the importance of tolerance and fostered initiatives to combat discrimination and promote understanding. However, intolerance and division continue to be prevalent in many parts of the world, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to promote these values.
Peru and Chile are fighting for a crucial win in their World Cup qualification campaign as they sit at the bottom of the table. Paraguay's upset over Argentina has added more pressure for these two sides to secure points. While Australian and Colombian fans can watch for free on SBS on Demand and Caracol Play, respectively, those traveling abroad can still access the game through a VPN.
A horrific crash in Dehradun left six students dead and one critically injured. The accident, which occurred on November 12, was caused by drunk driving and the video of its aftermath was widely shared on social media before being taken down by X for violating its content-sharing policies. The driver of the car, now identified as Siddhesh Agrawal, was allegedly racing with a BMW when the accident happened. Chauhan, the user who shared the video, later apologised for not adding a trigger warning or blurring sensitive parts.
Congress leader Pawan Khera expressed sadness over the death of several infants in a massive fire at Jhansi Medical College in Uttar Pradesh. The fire, which broke out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), claimed the lives of at least 10 infants. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognisance of the incident and directed the district administration to expedite relief efforts.
A devastating fire broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Uttar Pradesh, leading to the death of ten newborn babies. Dozens of children were rescued, but the fire caused a stampede-like situation at the hospital. The cause of the fire is suspected to be a short circuit in the inner unit of the NICU. A two-member inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the incident and submit a report to the Chief Minister.
The president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, has expressed his government's willingness to work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to resolve any concerns about their nuclear program. This comes as IAEA chief Rafael Grossi visits Tehran, amidst concerns about escalating tensions in the region, including the recent Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon. Grossi stressed the importance of achieving results in the ongoing nuclear talks in order to prevent further conflict and avoid any potential attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities.
More than 20,000 people were killed and half a million were left homeless after a powerful earthquake hit the Indian state of Gujarat in 2002. Among the affected were 150 Hindu families in the remote village of Mavnugam, whose homes were destroyed. Almost two years later, thanks to a church-led effort, the villagers now have a new village with earthquake-proof homes, a school, health center, and other amenities. This project was made possible by funds raised by international partner churches and was inaugurated on a special day for the Church of North India.
Despite making an impressive aerobatic display at the Airshow China 2024, the Su-57 fighter jet faced global ridicule and embarrassment due to its questionable build quality and stealth capabilities. Social media users pointed out far from hi-tech bolts and filler between panels, rendering the plane detectable to radars and negating its stealth abilities. This further adds to the long and troubled history of the prized Russian aircraft.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last 18 years of his life in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. This gurdwara, built at the site of Guru Nanak's childhood home, serves as a reminder of his teachings and travels. It features a rock with his hand imprint, his final resting place, and the original robe gifted to him by a Muslim devotee. Other gurdwaras in the region commemorate important events in Guru Nanak's life, such as his enlightenment, acts of charity, and miraculous spring.
This November 15, 2024, Friday, Sikhs all over the world will commemorate Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 555th birth anniversary, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti. It is a day to honor the founder of Sikhism and his teachings of unity, equality, and humanity. It is celebrated with morning processions, recitation of the holy book, and reflecting on Guru Nanak Dev Ji's spiritual journey. This year, the special anniversary falls on a Friday, making it an even more auspicious occasion.