By Terpsi Vasilopoulou,
As we approach the 20th of December, a significant date on the calendar, we prepare to celebrate International Solidarity Day. This annual occasion holds great importance for international relations in the 21st century, the ongoing battle against poverty, and the pursuit of sustainability agenda goals.
Historically, initiatives like the 2002 World Solidarity Fund vote to eradicate poverty have underscored the pivotal role of solidarity in addressing global challenges such as poverty and hunger, engaging all relevant stakeholders. The idea of dedicating a day to this cause was introduced during the 2005 World Summit by the General Assembly and formally established later that same year. The UN Millennium Declaration has played a key role in defining the civil and political rights of individuals in the modern era by fostering foreign relations between member states and the UN. Solidarity has been a core value shaping the UN’s operations since its inception, aiming to bring people and nations together to promote peace, human rights, and social and economic development. The concept of collective security, grounded in unity and harmony, relies on solidarity.
International Solidarity Day encapsulates various aspirations: celebrating unity through diversity, reminding governments to honor their commitments in international agreements, raising public awareness about the importance of solidarity, and fostering debates on ways to promote solidarity for the achievement of sustainable development goals, including poverty eradication.
The day calls for active participation from individuals, who can contribute by supporting and assisting the poor and disabled. Governments are likewise encouraged to address poverty and other social barriers through sustainable development goals. It is evident that achieving these aspirations requires the cooperation and collective action of states and individuals worldwide.
Let’s look forward to the upcoming International Solidarity Day on the 20th of December as we reflect on the values of unity, cooperation, and collective action that define this significant day in our global calendar.
References
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International Human Solidarity Day | United Nations. Available here
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List of International Days and Weeks | United Nations. (2023.). United Nations. Available here
