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World Day for Cultural Diversity

“Difference is the essence of humanity. The difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”

-John Hume-

In 2001, The Un Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted the universal declaration on cultural diversity. In December 2002, the UN General Assembly, in its resolution 57/249, declared 21 May to be the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. The day which we celebrate today. 

The Day for Cultural Diversity plays a major role in appreciating cultural diversities between different countries, states, and people in the world. Nevertheless, it not only celebrated the richness of the world’s cultures but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue in achieving peace and sustainable development. 

Learning about other cultures helps us understand different perspectives within the world in which we live. It helps dispel negative stereotypes and personal biases about different groups. In addition, cultural diversity helps us recognize and respect “ways of being “ that are not necessarily our own. Recognizing and honoring the similarities and differences of those around us not only makes our world a more equitable and enjoyable place to live but also helps us become more aware of the cultures, backgrounds, and traditions that have shaped our personal lives and upbringings

The Day for Cultural Diversity provides an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity. To celebrate and make an effective awareness every year UNESCO comes up with a theme that is more important according to the current Year. And the theme for 2023, is to Promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more. Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination. The five freedoms it protects, are speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government. Human rights and freedoms are needed to protect and preserve every individual’s humanity, to ensure that every individual can live a life of dignity and a life that Is worthy of a human being. Question: Why “should” anyone respect them? Fundamentally, everyone is a human being and therefore a moral being.

According to UNESCO data, the cultural and creative sector is one of the most powerful engines of development worldwide. It accounts for more than 48 million jobs globally –almost half of which are held by women representing 6.2% of all existing employment and 3.1% of global GDP. It is also the sector that employs and provides opportunities for the largest number of young people under the age of 30. With 89% of all current conflicts in the world occurring in countries with low intercultural dialogue, strengthening intercultural dialogue must be a priority to forge effective cooperation and sustain peace.

Once Sunder Pichai said that “A diverse mix of voices leads to better discussions, decisions, and outcomes for everyone.”  The more variety, the better society. 

Happy World Day For Cultural Diversity!!! 

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