On the occasion of the celebration of the 2011 International Day for Tolerance, Ambassador Mussie Hailu, Regional Director of United Religions Initiative (URI) Africa called for tolerance and respect among followers of different religions and cultures in Africa and in the world. In his call he said "One practical action which helps for tolerance and respect to prevail in the world is the teaching of the Golden Rule (treat others the way you want to be treated) and this teaching need to be part of the education system in all member countries of UNESCO. URI Africa is working to make this happen and proclaimed the Golden Rule Day to create more awareness on this principle and ethics of life"
As an International interfaith organization established by people of divers religions, spiritual expressions and indigenous traditions throughout the world to promote enduring, daily interfaith cooperation, to end religiously motivated violence and to create cultures of peace, justice and healing for the Earth and all living beings URI welcomes and support the Declaration of Principles of Tolerance.
As NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, URI is working on a daily base (through its over 500 member organizations and groups known as Cooperation Circle from different part of the world) in addressing the issue of tolerance, interfaith harmony, HIV/AIDS, human right, building a culture of peace and co-existence, environmental protection and nuclear free world. URI also join hands with the United Nations and its member countries to fulfill the purpose of the United Nations.
The United Nations International Day for Tolerance is annually observed on November 16 in the world to educate people about the need for tolerance in society and to help them understand the negative effects of intolerance and to promote the act of tolerance in the world. The International Day for Tolerance is a time for people to learn about respecting and recognizing the rights and beliefs of others. It is also a time of reflection and debate on the negative effects of intolerance. Live discussions and debates take place across the world on this day, focusing on how various forms of injustice, oppression, racism and unfair discrimination have a negative impact on society. This is the day to create understanding on issues centered on tolerance, human rights and non-violence.
In 1996 the UN General Assembly invited member states to observe the International Day for Tolerance on November 16, with activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public. This action came in the wake of the United Nations Year for Tolerance, 1995, proclaimed by the assembly in 1993. The year was declared on the General Conference of UNESCO’s initiative. On November 16, 1995, the UNESCO member states adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance.
May Peace Prevail on Earth
