Press Statement Attributable to
the Spokesperson of the High Representative for
the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
on the International Day of Non-Violence
New York – 2 October 2020
October 2nd marks the International Day of Non-Violence, and the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, a beacon of the nonviolence movement who envisioned a world where every citizen has dignity as a basic human right. It is a reminder that now more than ever, as we keep seeing patterns of intolerance, divisions, and discrimination that breed violence and hatred, we all need to stay united in solidarity because our lives are interconnected, and our survival depends on mutual respect and support.
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) continues to work on fulfilling its motto, “Many Cultures, One Humanity,” by fostering intercultural and interfaith dialogue, building bridges of understanding, and countering stereotyping and polarization. Mr. Miguel Moratinos, the High Representative for UNAOC, stresses that the global community needs to stand up against violence in all its forms. Recalling the United Nations Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites, developed by UNAOC, he calls on all stakeholders to support the implementation of the plan to preserve the sanctity of places of worship and the safety of worshipers.
The High Representative also invites the global community to join the call to action #forSafeWorship of UNAOC to celebrate the universality of religious sites as symbols of our shared humanity, history, and traditions. He invites everyone to get involved by following @forSafeWorship on social media and visiting SafeguardReligiousSites.UNAOC.org.
As we commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence, let’s stand united as One Humanity.
Ms. Nihal Saad, UNAOC Chief of Cabinet and Spokesperson for the High Representative
saadn@un.org | www.unaoc.org | Twitter: @UNAOC