International Day for Tolerance is observed annually on November 16, worldwide, to raise awareness about tolerance, acceptance of differences, and appreciation of cultural diversity. UNESCO’s Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, adopted in 1995, defines tolerance not merely as behaving tolerantly or as indifference, but as respect and valuing of cultural diversity, forms of expression, and different ways of being human. In this context, tolerance ensures the recognition of universal human rights and fundamental freedoms and guarantees the peaceful coexistence of different communities.
History
The formal recognition of tolerance at the international level began with the adoption of UNESCO member states of the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance at the 28th General Conference held in Paris on November 16, 1995.【1】 The declaration defines tolerance both as an individual virtue and as a political and legal necessity and characterizes it as a responsibility that supports human rights, pluralism, democracy, and the rule of law. In 1996, the United Nations General Assembly, with Resolution 51/95, designated November 16 as the International Day for Tolerance and invited member states to commemorate this day with awareness-raising activities in educational institutions and the wider community.【2】 This decision aims to implement and promote UNESCO’s declaration at the international level.
Purpose and Importance
The main purpose of the International Day for Tolerance is to increase awareness of tolerance and mutual understanding among individuals and societies. In this framework, it aims to strengthen respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, promote the acceptance of cultural, ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity, and contribute to the prevention of social conflicts. Tolerance is considered a fundamental element of peace, democracy, and development at both the individual and societal levels.
Fundamental Principles of Tolerance
Tolerance is supported by knowledge, openness, communication, and freedom of thought, conscience, and belief. Tolerance does not grant the right to violate the rights and freedoms of others and cannot be used under any circumstances to justify the violation of fundamental values. Both individuals and states are obliged to practice tolerance. States should support tolerance through fair and impartial laws, enforcement of justice, and equal provision of economic and social opportunities. At the societal level, openness, mutual listening, and solidarity should be promoted in the family, school and workplace. Media can play an effective role in spreading tolerance values and raising awareness against intolerance.
Education and Tolerance
Education is an effective means of cultivating tolerance. Tolerance education teaches individuals both to protect their own rights and freedoms and to safeguard the rights of others. Education should be delivered through systematic and rational methods addressing the root causes of violence, discrimination and prejudice. Students should be trained to develop independent judgment, critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills. UNESCO conducts programs and research on tolerance, human rights and nonviolence, aiming to enhance the capacity for tolerance of individuals and societies through educational policies and programs.
Role of the United Nations and UNESCO
Since its establishment, the United Nations has created an identity that promotes tolerance. UNESCO, in line with its responsibilities in education, science, culture, and communication, draws attention to the importance of tolerance and encourages member states to take action. The International Day for Tolerance is observed worldwide to highlight the dangers of intolerance and to raise social awareness, supported by educational and cultural activities. In a message published in 2015, then-Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized that tolerance is not passive acceptance but rather a responsibility that requires action. Tolerance supports the establishment of societies built on civic participation, pluralism, and respect for differences.
International Dimension and Contemporary Significance
The International Day for Tolerance increases the importance of tolerance in an era of globalization, rapid communication, and intense social change. Tolerance is considered essential for establishing peace, social harmony, and mutual understanding among individuals, communities, and states. Raising international awareness against growing violence, intolerance, discrimination, and xenophobia is one of the main objectives of this day. UNESCO’s 1995 Declaration and the 2013–2022 International Decade for the Promotion of a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World contribute to the global dissemination of tolerance.
