Press Statement on the International Day of Tolerance
New York – 16 November, 2019
On the occasion of the International Day of Tolerance, the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Moratinos stresses that against the backdrop of today’s complex global context, tolerance, respect of the other and promoting dialogue are key elements to achieve peaceful and inclusive societies. One that sees diversity as richness rather than a threat.
The High Representative reiterated that the International Day of Tolerance is a reminder of the UN the Charter of the founding fathers of the United Nations which refers to “We the Peoples” of the United Nations who are “determined to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as neighbors”. Those universal values are humanistic values inherent in all faiths. Hence we, at the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations we derive our motto from these values “Many Cultures…One Humanity”. We work to promote intercultural and interreligious dialogue as a viable tool to achieve this goal. We recognize that if we truly believe and work for fulfilling this motto, we would succeed in transitioning from tolerance as a noble human virtue to acceptance and respect of the other as a noble human act.
To that end, let us stand up collectively against hate speech, all forms of discrimination and all acts of violence and terror.
In this spirit, let’s celebrate the International Day of Tolerance by demonstrating tolerance, compassion and respect of the other every day.