International Day of Human Fraternity

On this International Day of Human Fraternity, we celebrate the values of equality, unity and mutual respect. Yet today, all over the world, we see a surge of discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance driving people apart and tearing at the fabric of societies.... "U.S Secretary General"

Origins and Significance

The United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Human Fraternity in December 2020, inspired by the historic signing of the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together on February 4, 2019. This landmark agreement, jointly authored by Pope Francis and Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, underscored the necessity of interfaith dialogue, social unity, and global solidarity. The observance highlights the value of human dignity and fundamental freedoms, encouraging countries, organizations, and individuals to foster tolerance, acceptance, and harmonious coexistence. https://www.un.org/en/observances/human-fraternity/messages

Themes and Objectives

The celebration of this day revolves around several key themes:

Promoting Interfaith Harmony – Encouraging understanding and cooperation among different religious traditions to prevent conflicts and enhance peacebuilding efforts.

Encouraging Social Cohesion – Strengthening relationships between communities to combat discrimination, hate speech, and division.

Fostering Global Solidarity – Supporting humanitarian efforts, including refugee assistance, poverty alleviation, and crisis response.

Educating Future Generations – Promoting awareness of human fraternity through educational programs, discussions, and cultural exchanges.

A CALL FOR PEACE

As the world celebrates the International day of Human Fraternity, it is most definitely a good time to reflect on issues and matters arising. The world has been far from peaceful even though peace is what every human being desires. If everyone wants peace, then from where comes wars?

If peace is everyone's desire, then there is a bigger problem underneath the surface which has so divided the human race that things which ought not to matter actually now matters the most.

It is the duty of all of us, including religious leaders, to seek dialogue over division, and confront hatred wherever we find it, before it takes hold and spreads.

One of this is religion. As beautiful as religion is, it is the cause of so many vices, wars and riots worldwide. Some kill in the name of their god. Some discriminate and segregate others in the name of their god, but in all these misconceptions, we forget the focal point of religion. International day of human fraternity seeks to unite people of different backgrounds, beliefs and cultures. The bottom line is that as long as you are a human being, you should be able to relate with others regardless of religious beliefs.

Some religious extremists even go as far as burning down worship centers, hunt and brutally murder people of other religions because they believe their religion is supreme to the others. We are all human beings. Flesh and blood runs through our veins, and so we must always look on to others with love and empathy. The greatest commandment in every religion is LOVE, but why has love been eroded? Why has hate replaced love? And why has segregation taken over the systems of the world?

We can only achieve our collective dream of peace if we show love to one another. We do not need a reason to love the next person. Love them because they are humans. Today is an important day in history, and we must not forget the main point of this celebration. Peace is achievable if only we would set aside our differences and work together for the greater good. Take a moment to reflect on the issues going on in the world and fix yourself in a good position to foster change. You don't have to be rich and powerful first to be able to influence your world positively. Start from your immediate environment. Speak kindly to people, support a friend who is in need. Sometimes, it is the little efforts that count.

In conclusion the International Day of Human Fraternity serves as a powerful reminder that despite our differences, we are all part of one human family. By embracing diversity, practicing empathy, and fostering understanding, we can contribute to a world where peace and harmony prevail. As we celebrate this day, let us commit to building bridges instead of walls, promoting dialogue instead of division, and upholding the principles of fraternity for a brighter future for all.

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