It is important to have peace in our society if we want progress. This is more relevant in our region as we have seen many conflicts in recent years. There should be tolerance as it enhances development. Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. We should know that in 1996, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 51/95 proclaiming 16 November as International Day for Tolerance.
This action followed the adoption of a Declaration of Principles on Tolerance by UNESCO's Member States on 16 November 1995. Among other things, the Declaration affirms that tolerance is neither indulgence nor indifference. Tolerance recognizes the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. People are naturally diverse; only tolerance can ensure the survival of mixed communities in every region of the globe.
The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) does work and activities for Tolerance. UNESCO has supported the peaceful development of societies by contributing to the construction and consolidation of democracy, and the development of democratic institutions, especially in times of transition. It promotes fostering rights, inclusion and non-discrimination
While important advancements have been achieved in many areas, societies are still plagued by discrimination, racism and inequalities. None of the multifaceted and complex challenges of our times can be tackled effectively without inclusion. This is the resounding message of Agenda 2030 and its pledge to “Leave no one behind”.
To transform that vision into reality in a multicultural world, action must be anchored in human rights and gender equality, and promote openness, empathy and other shared values. This is the cornerstone of UNESCO’s normative and operational work which advances respect, protection and fulfillment of the rights in areas where UNESCO has a clear comparative advantage and expertise.
Cities play an important role in promoting diversity and inclusion, targeting the most disadvantaged groups, such as persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, youth, migrants and refugees, vulnerable women and girls, and the elderly. In an increasingly urban world, it is from cities that many of the greatest societal challenges emerge, so it is in cities that they must be faced – from growing inequalities to poverty and discrimination in all its forms.
Education transforms lives and is at the heart of UNESCO’s mission to build peace, eradicate poverty and drive sustainable development. UNESCO cooperates with the judiciary and security forces to support their vital role in reinforcing the “three Ps” (Prevention, Protection, and Prosecution), to guarantee journalist’s safety and end impunity for crimes against them.
Establishing a culture of peace and sustainable development are at the heart of UNESCO’s mandate. Training and research in sustainable development are among the priorities, as well as human rights education, skills for peaceful relations, good governance, etc. From a career perspective, if we want to build our careers in this field then we may join an international organization like UNESCO.
Masters and above in social sciences is always helpful to part of UN agencies. One may also study Master of Social Work or Development Studies, etc to get associated with different international agencies. One must be skillful and have effective communication to excel in the field of promoting tolerance. Learning different languages is also an added advantage to work with different communities and regions. (With direct inputs from UN publication)
(Ranjan K Baruah is a
career mentor and skill trainer and currently Adviser of Skill Employment and
Entrepreneurship Department of Bodoland Territorial Council, Kokrajhar and can
be reached at 8473943734 or bkranjan@gmail.com)
