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.
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