“On this International Day of Tolerance, I call on all people and governments to actively combat fear, hatred and extremism with dialogue, understanding and mutual respect. Let us advance against the forces of division and unite for our shared future.” Unites Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon In 1996, the UN General Assembly (by resolution 51/95) invited UN Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November, with activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public. http://www.un.org/en/events/toleranceday/ This action followed on the United Nations Year for Tolerance, 1995, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993 at the initiative of UNESCO, as outlined in the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action for the Year. The 2005 World Summit Outcome document (A/RES/60/1) furthered the commitment of Heads of State and Government to advance human welfare, freedom and progress everywhere, as well as to encourage tolerance, respect, dialogue and cooperation among different cultures, civilizations and peoples. The International Day for Tolerance is observed every year on November 16 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. Over the past years, acts of intolerance, violence, terrorism and racism have been on the rise. They are often directed at the most vulnerable members in our society: national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities, refugees, migrant workers and immigrants. Intolerance is a threat to the consolidation of peace and democracy and an obstacle to development, International Day for Tolerance reminds all of us of the dignity and worth of every human being and encourages us to live together in peace.
