International Day for Tolerance

November 16, Saturday

International Day for Tolerance is celebrated annually on November 16. This day was established by the UN General Assembly in 1995 in honor of the 50th anniversary of the creation of UNESCO. The main goal of the holiday is to remind people of the need for tolerance, respect and mutual understanding between people of different cultures, religions, ethnic groups and beliefs.

History
On November 16, 1995, UNESCO Member States adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, which formulated the basic ideas of tolerance and its importance for peace and society. The declaration emphasizes that tolerance is not a concession or indifference, but, above all, respect, recognition and understanding of cultural diversity, human rights and freedoms.

International Day for Tolerance was created as a response to the growing cases of intolerance, xenophobia, racism and religious hatred in the world.

Tolerance implies:
Respect and acceptance of differences. People differ in their cultures, traditions, religions and beliefs, and these differences enrich human society.
Recognition of human rights. Tolerance is closely linked to the principles of human rights, as discrimination and intolerance contradict fundamental freedoms such as freedom of speech and freedom of religion.
Counteraction to violence. Tolerance contributes to the creation of a peaceful society where differences are resolved through dialogue rather than violence.
Social and cultural development. The development and prosperity of a society largely depend on the ability to accept and adapt new ideas, exchange experiences and knowledge.

Events and initiatives
The International Day for Tolerance is accompanied by numerous events aimed at raising awareness of the problems of intolerance and ways to solve them:

Educational programs. Lectures, discussions and seminars are held in schools and universities on the problems of tolerance and the importance of diversity.
Social campaigns. Many countries organize campaigns against discrimination and prejudice, aimed at supporting marginalized groups.
Festivals and cultural events. These events help to unite people of different cultures and beliefs, demonstrating the beauty and importance of cultural diversity.
International forums and conferences. Organizations, human rights defenders and activists gather to discuss problems and develop strategies to combat intolerance.

International Day for Tolerance reminds us that peace and harmony are possible only through respect for each other.

International Day for Tolerance – days left: 2. Create Countdown to Event

International Day for Tolerance in other years

2021 November 16, Tuesday
2022 November 16, Wednesday
2023 November 16, Thursday
2025 November 16, Sunday

International Day for Tolerance in other countries