In observance of the International Day of Non-Violence, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated on Monday that it not only honors the life of Mahatma Gandhi but also the ideals he stood for, including fairness, respect for others, and the effectiveness of nonviolent protest.
“Let us heed his words today and re-commit ourselves to this essential purpose,” he said in a message on the International Day of Non-Violence.
According to Guterres, the globe faces serious challenges like deteriorating climate instability, escalating conflicts, growing disparities, and rising tensions.
“We also see divides deepening within countries – with democracy under threat and hate speech and intolerance on the march,” he said.
Guterres said they can overcome these afflictions and chart a course towards a brighter, more peaceful future.
“If we understand – as Gandhi did – that the magnificent diversity of our human family is a treasure, not a threat.
If we support social cohesion, encourage the willingness to make concessions, and encourage teamwork.
If we make sure that everyone has the opportunity to live lives with dignity, opportunity, and rights, regardless of status, background, circumstance, or faith.
If we unite around our common humanity,” said the UN chief.
He also said, “Let us remember Gandhi’s wise counsel: “Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.”
