Celebrating human fraternity – peace and cooperation
There is deep concern regarding acts that advocate religious hatred and, thereby, undermine the spirit of tolerance and respect for diversity, especially at a time when the world continues to confront the crisis caused by COVID-19, which requires a global response based on unity, solidarity and renewed multilateral cooperation.
Friday marks the second International Day of Human Fraternity which was established by a Resolution of the United Nations General Assembly in December 2020.
The initiative takes note of the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together on 4 February 2019, by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, in Abu Dhabi.
We need to recognise 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.
We also need to underline the importance of raising awareness about different cultures and religions, or beliefs, and the promotion of tolerance, which involves societal acceptance and respect for religious and cultural diversity, including with regard to religious expression. Education, in particular at school, should contribute in a meaningful way to promoting tolerance and the elimination of discrimination based on religion or belief.
Furthermore, we must acknowledge that tolerance, pluralistic tradition, mutual respect and the diversity of religions and beliefs promote human fraternity. Therefore, it is imperative that activities aimed at promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue are encouraged to enhance peace and social stability, respect for diversity and mutual respect.
Also, to create, at the global level, and also at the regional, national and local levels, an environment conducive to peace and mutual understanding.
The UN Resolution recognises the contribution that dialogue among all religious groups can make towards improved awareness and understanding of the common values shared by all humankind. Let’s promote a culture of peace that encourages sustainable development, tolerance, inclusion, mutual understanding, and solidarity around the world.