The United Nations(UN)’s International Day of Human Fraternity is annually observed across the globe on 4th February to honour religious and cultural diversity. The day also focuses on interfaith harmony, dialogue, and mutual respect.
The day aims to promote dialogue among different religious groups and to increase the understanding of common values shared by all human beings.
- 4th February 2022 marks the observance of the 2nd International Day of Human Fraternity.
The events of the International Day of Human Fraternity is organised by The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Egypt to the UN and the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the UN.
Background:
i.United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) has adopted the resolution A/RES/75/200 on 21st December 2020 and proclaimed the 4th February of every year as the International Day of Human
Fraternity.
ii.The first ever International Day of Human Fraternity was observed on 4th February 2021.
Why February 4?
i.The date commemorates the historical meeting between Pope Francis and the grand imam of Al Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb on 4th February 2019.
ii.They also signed the statement, known as the Document on Human Fraternity during the meeting.
Culture of Peace:
In 1999, the UNGA adopted the resolution A/RES/53/243 titled “Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace” that serves as the universal mandate for the international community and to promote the culture of peace and non-violence that benefits all of humanity, including future generations.
Additional info:
In October 2010, the UNGA adopted the resolution A/RES/65/5 and proclaimed the first week of February every year as the World Interfaith Harmony Week.
The World Interfaith Harmony Week 2022 is observed from 1st to 7th February 2022.
