Nelson Mandela International Day (18/07)

World — is not only the absence of wars; world — is the creation of an environment where everyone can flourish, regardless of race, color, beliefs, religion, gender, class, caste and any other social factor or position. Religion, ethnicity, language, social and cultural experience — are important components of human civilization that enrich its diversity. Can we allow them to become a reason for the stratification of society or the manifestation of cruelty? If this happens, it undermines the foundations of our humanism. Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela International Day was established by the UN General Assembly in November 2009 (resolution 64/13) and is celebrated annually on July 18, the birthday of one of the most famous fighters against the apartheid (racial discrimination) regime in South Africa. A new date has appeared in the international holiday calendar in recognition of the former African president's contribution to peace and freedom.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela — is the first black president of the Republic of South Africa. During the period of apartheid, he was one of the most famous activists in the fight for human rights, for which he spent 26 years in prison. In 1990, the human rights activist was released from prison, and in 1993 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

A year later, in the spring of 1994, South Africa's first general elections were held, granting full voting rights to all residents of the multinational country. As a result, Nelson Mandela became the president of South Africa — and the first black person to hold this post.

The UN General Assembly Resolution, which set the date for the holiday (№ A/RES/64/13), « recognizes Nelson Mandela's life values and his dedicated service to humanity in the areas of conflict resolution, race relations, the spread and protection of human rights, in reconciliation, in ensuring gender equality, the rights of children and other vulnerable groups, as well as improving the situation of the poorest and least developed social groups». The document also highlights the South African President's contribution to world peace.

In December 2015, the General Assembly decided to expand the scope of Nelson Mandela International Day and also use it to promote humane prison conditions, raise awareness that prisoners are an integral part of society, and recognize the importance of prison staff as a social service of particular importance.

Every year on Nelson Mandela Day, various events are held at UN information centers and political institutions around the world. Debates and thematic readings are organized; screenings of the film «Unconquered», dedicated to the South African president, are held; ethnic music concerts are organized; photographic and historical exhibitions open.

The UN also joins the call of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, addressed to every person in the world, — as part of the celebration of this Day, to spend 67 minutes (one minute for each year of Mandela's social activities) to help another person, to do something good and important on this day: help the needy and disadvantaged, work with a child, care for the environment or provide volunteer and charitable assistance.

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