The United Nations General Assembly, through resolution 75/200 on December 21, 2020, established the International Day of Human Fraternity to foster increased cultural and religious tolerance. Co-facilitated by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, this resolution calls upon all UN member states and other international organizations to annually observe the International Day of Human Fraternity on February 4.

The celebrations of this day feature events attended by UN member states, religious leaders, and civil society representatives. Notably, it includes the presentation of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, acknowledging individuals or entities worldwide for their significant contributions to human fraternity.

Since its inaugural celebration on February 4, 2021, the International Day of Human Fraternity has garnered endorsements from various world leaders.

Origin and History

• Establishment: The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 4th as the International Day of Human Fraternity in 2020, recognizing the importance of promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and reconciliation among individuals and communities.

• Background: The day commemorates the historic signing of the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together on February 4, 2019, by Pope Francis of the Catholic Church and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Mosque in Egypt. This document emphasizes the importance of fraternity, mutual respect, and dialogue as essential values for building peaceful societies.

Objectives and Goals

• Promoting Fraternity: Raise awareness about the importance of human fraternity as a foundation for peaceful coexistence and social harmony.

• Interfaith Dialogue: Encourage dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect among people of different religions, cultures, and beliefs.

• Advocacy: Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote tolerance, non-discrimination, and respect for diversity within societies.

Activities and Observances

• Symposia and Conferences: Universities, religious institutions, and organizations may organize symposia, conferences, and panel discussions on topics related to human fraternity, interfaith dialogue, and religious pluralism.

• Cultural Events: Cultural performances, art exhibitions, and film screenings that promote themes of peace, tolerance, and unity among diverse communities.

• Community Engagement: Local communities may participate in interfaith prayer services, community service projects, and outreach activities to foster mutual understanding and solidarity.

Principles of Human Fraternity

• Respect for Diversity: Emphasizing the value of diversity and recognizing the dignity and rights of all individuals regardless of their religious or cultural background.

• Dialogue and Cooperation: Encouraging open dialogue, collaboration, and cooperation among religious leaders, scholars, and communities to address common challenges and promote shared values.

• Conflict Resolution: Promoting peaceful conflict resolution, reconciliation, and forgiveness as essential elements for building sustainable peace and social cohesion.

Global Impact

• Peacebuilding: The International Day of Human Fraternity contributes to global efforts to promote peace, prevent conflicts rooted in religious or cultural differences, and foster a culture of tolerance and understanding.

• Education and Awareness: By raising awareness about the principles of human fraternity, the day inspires individuals and communities to actively contribute to building inclusive societies based on mutual respect and solidarity.

Conclusion

The International Day of Human Fraternity serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation among people of different religions and beliefs. By promoting dialogue, tolerance, and reconciliation, the day reaffirms the shared aspirations for peace, justice, and human dignity across diverse communities worldwide. It encourages individuals, religious leaders, policymakers, and civil society organizations to work together towards building a more inclusive and harmonious world grounded in the principles of human fraternity and solidarity.