USW

“Human kind cannot exist without cooperation” has been said by the most famous Arab sociologist and philosopher, Ibn Khaldun – about cooperation and solidarity.
– Ibn Khaldun:  the founder of sociology. [1]

Human beings have always cooperated and supported each other through thick and thin in all human societies, and they took the concept of solidarity upon themselves, began to apply it and supported each other with all intimacy and love. Today, however, things are different in today’s circumstances and successive wars and health crises.

Anyone who is not satisfied with today’s realities will see the commemoration of the International Day of Human Solidarity as mere slogans by those organizations concerned with the well-being of all mankind, and in fact, there is no so-called solidarity. There is merely a fierce conflict and competition to achieve the interests and objectives of States and peoples.  If we look at where we are today, this pessimistic view seems correct.

The Concept of Human Solidarity

Solidarity is identified in the Millennium Declaration as one of the fundamental values of international relations in the 21st Century, wherein those who either suffer or benefit least deserve help from those who benefit most. Consequently, in light of the current circumstances and the challenge of growing inequality, strengthening international solidarity is indispensable.

Therefore, the UN General Assembly, convinced that promoting the culture of solidarity and the spirit of sharing is important for combating poverty, proclaimed 20 of December as International Human Solidarity Day. Through initiatives such as the establishment of the World Solidarity Fund to eradicate poverty and the proclamation of International Human Solidarity Day, the concept of solidarity was promoted as crucial in the fight against poverty and in the involvement of all relevant stakeholders. [2]

The objectives and importance of human solidarity

The general objective of human solidarity is to create an enabling environment for the following:

• Remove the causes of asymmetries and inequities between and within States
• Remove all structural obstacles and factors that generate and perpetuate poverty and inequality.
• Globally; Engendering trust and mutual respect between States and non-State actors to foster peace and security, development and human rights;
• Promoting a social and international order in which all human rights and fundamental freedoms can be fully realized. [3]

The importance of human solidarity comes from being:

• The force that drives society; as any society is made up of a group of solidarity and interdependent individuals who aim to make society more interdependent and cohesive. A society, in which there is no interdependence and solidarity among its members, is a fragile and weak society that is easy to dismantle and control without any effort.
• A means to achieve people’s goals and objectives. Every individual, however powerful they may be, cannot achieve all the goals and objectives alone. Thus, normal life requires individuals to cooperate with each other. A good society is one where the members collaborate with each other, and each one provides the efforts and skills that they can do, in their respective fields. Only by doing so can people’s goals be completed and their demands realized.

All States and Governments are well aware of the concept of solidarity in society, in order to maximize the country’s strength. The majority of States are therefore creating blocs and parties that disseminate the concept of solidarity in society, in order to reach the best possible result. [4]

Solidarity within the framework of the United Nations

The concept of solidarity has defined the work of the United Nations since the birth of the Organization. The creation of the United Nations drew the peoples and nations of the world together to promote peace, human rights, and social and economic development. The Organization was founded on the basic premise of unity and harmony among its members, expressed in the concept of collective security that relies on the solidarity of its members to unite “to maintain international peace and security.”

The Organization relies on the concept of solidarity “cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character” as well, and it identified it as one of the fundamental and universal values that should underlie relations between peoples in the twenty-first century. In that regard, it was decided to proclaim 20 December of each year International Human Solidarity Day. 

The General Assembly established the World Solidarity Fund as a trust fund of the United Nations Development Programme. Its objective is to eradicate poverty and promote human and social development in developing countries, in particular among the poorest segments of their populations. [5]

Types of human solidarity

Solidarity does not take a particular pattern because capabilities vary from time to time and the individual’s data differ from that of the other.

Type 1: psychological solidarity. In the most famous type of solidarity, an individual provides various forms of psychological support to others. This type of solidarity can be offered on a narrow scale between brothers, relatives and friends. Individual tries to listen to his brother’s complaint and help him get rid of the disadvantages he feels. One of the most important examples is solidarity with women’s and children’s issues. Psychological solidarity may be in such a broader form that peoples will stand in solidarity with each other, such as Arabs’ solidarity with their Palestinian brothers and sisters.

Type 2: Political solidarity. States provide assistance to each other through political positions in which states support other States to realize and redress their demands.

Type 3: Economic solidarity. In two respects: The first one is wide, and it is through peoples’ solidarity with each other; people provide some food and medical items and send them to associations that ensure the delivery to vulnerable people. This is reflected in solidarity in natural disasters and wars. There is a narrow economic solidarity, through the provision of certain jobs for the people in the same society; as some people are creating a range of private enterprises that secure small jobs for people with no income.

Type 4: Social solidarity. which constitutes a supportive point for members of the entire community. Their weak strength helps in any way possible, whether material or moral.

Any kind and any example of solidarity guarantees a genuine benefit to society’s members; Whether the donor or the recipient. It leads to closer communication between the people of the same society and the people of different peoples. [6]

Realistic application of human solidarity in society

Any objection to the topic of “human solidarity” would be valid, if solidarity is taken as a word in the broad sense with no real meaning and cannot be implemented on the ground. But the aspiration of the United Nations to revive this day is not merely figurative and constructive expressions of human solidarity, it is the Implementation of concrete plans on the ground entitled “Sustainable development”. Solidarity among human beings is linked to development that contributes to alleviating conflicts and disputes. Development plans are presented in various areas starting with trade and economic exchanges in the development of education and health sectors to ensure the stability of societies, and with regard to environmental cooperation at the global level, with a view to mitigating the impacts of ecological changes on the lives of individuals and peoples alike. [1]

Solidarity in times of pandemic

If humanity has to show human solidarity, it will be during epidemics and crises that strike all of humanity. without distinction between countries and peoples.

The Covid-19 pandemic is only one of them, in which human solidarity should have been shown at its highest levels. The pandemic has shown that governments around the world must ensure the continued availability of essential health services and protect health systems, and help people cope with adversity through social protection and basic services. [1]

Solidarity is one of the greatest morals, if a person possesses it, he will have possessed the reins of goodness and virtue. Solidarity is not achieved unless a person feels the concerns of his fellow man. Solidarity is the word that makes a person feel safe when fear strikes. So, the member of the community knows that he is not alone and that there are many hands that pull him out from among the stones that he may stumble upon. So his soul is reassured as long as there are people who feel for others and provide them with help without any expected benefit. 

The question remains pending: Will the world be able to establish the principles of solidarity and activate them on the ground?

Also read:

• Human Rights Day.
• World Arabic Language Day.
• United Nations Day.

References:

[1] Independent Arabia

[2] UN

[3] OHCHR

[4] Almrsal

[5] UN

[6] Mawdoo3

“I am an ocean. In its depths, pearls dwell. So did they ask the diver about my shells?” Hafez Ibrahim conveys the depth of the Arabic language and its profound meanings through this eternal verse. Being one of the Semitic languages, Arabic is widely spoken, with more than 3.9 million people using it as their first language. These people are primarily found in the Arab world as well as in nations like Turkey, Mali, Chad, and others.

Arabic is one of the official literary languages of the world today. More than 30 common dialects, which differ from nation to country, are used by its people today. While standard Arabic is employed in the media, schools, etc. Exceeding French and Russian, Arabic is one of the top four languages used on the internet. [1]

The Arabic language began to develop in ancient times due to the rightly-guided Caliphs’ interest in its propagation. It has also grown and been nurtured by artists and authors in a variety of literary and artistic mediums, giving it its own distinct and intrinsic character.

World Arabic Language Day

The United Nations Department of Global Communication has declared a special day to honor each of the six official languages of the UN. This decision was made in light of the significance and widespread use of the Arabic language as well as the UN’s role in promoting languages and multiculturalism. Since the Arabic language is celebrated on December 18th of every year, which is the day it was formally added to the list of its official languages in 1973. [2]

UNESCO has launched the celebration in Arabic since 2010.

Why do we commemorate World Arabic Language Day?

The celebration of World Arabic Language Day is a call for civilized communication. The Arabic language is widely used not only in the Arab world but also in many other nations, which promotes intercultural understanding. The Arabic language also had a significant influence on several artistic and medicinal sectors, giving each one a distinctive cultural imprint. Therefore, the purpose of this day is to honor the Arabic language, emphasize its value in advancing science and culture, and promote international understanding and communication.

The Arabic Language Between Aesthetic and Ancient History

The Arabic language combines the aesthetics of arts, literature, and a rich history. There are various rumors that it was Adam’s, peace be upon him, native tongue in Paradise. Also, several Arabic inscriptions were discovered in the sixth century AD.

There are many parallels between the Arabic and the Aramaic languages because they have a common ancestor. However, Arabic has developed and now exists independently. The fact that it is written from right to left makes it distinct from other languages. Upon hearing, one is also struck by the variety of lines and singing voice in addition to the lovely luster in the pronunciation.

Eloquence, rhetoric, prose, and poetry all had a part in that. From pre-Islamic times to the present, many poets have achieved greatness in the literary art of poetry. like Nizar Qabbani, Al-Mutanabi, Abi Al-Qasim Al-Shabi, and many others, whose poems are currently being taught in numerous schools. We can see that throughout history, this language has produced a variety of images, poetry, and music.

How is the World Arabic Language celebrated?

An annual conference on topics relating to the Arabic language is organized by UNESCO. “Arabic Language and Civilizational Communication” was the theme from the previous year. It places a strong emphasis on the necessity of debate and communication in light of digitalization and technology. In addition to the contribution of the Arabic language to the global demand for peace.

In light of this, the UN hosts a lot of events. As a result, it celebrated Expo 2020 in Arabic, showcasing its beauty, the necessity to protect its history and its significance in political and administrative activities. in conjunction with the League of Arab States. On this occasion, the United Nations broadcasts music on its TV and YouTube channel. [2]

On a personal level, everyone can celebrate this day by enhancing their culture, reading Arabic-language works including novels, poems, and stories, and learning more about the beauty and historical significance of this language.

“Throughout the centuries, Arabic has been at the heart of exchanges between continents and across cultures. On World Arabic Language Day, UNESCO encourages everyone to look to the common roots of civilizations and strive for a more united world.”
– Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. [3]

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

Also read:

• Human Rights Day.
• World Children’s Day.
• United Nations Day.

References:

[1] Wikipedia

[2] UN

[3] UNESCO

“..That no matter who we are, who we love, or where we live, we have equal opportunities to live in dignity and to pursue our dreams. That from the moment we are born, anywhere on this planet, we have the same rights..” [1]
– Ms. Michelle Bachelet, Former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Being equal does not contradict our differences as human beings. The concept of human rights reinforces this. Which is adopted by all international organizations, associations, and governments. 

What is the date of Human Rights Day? 

The international community observes this day every year on 10 December. It commemorates the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration. [2]

The formal inception of this Day dates from 1950. And it has become an inspiration for many people to demand the prerogatives of their people. International organizations also sought, through this international day, to highlight the importance of these rights in our daily lives.  “Everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person” Article 3 of the Universal Declaration. Therefore, this day reflects people’s awareness of their prerogatives and demands and adherence to them. Which will serve peacebuilding and achieve cohesion between societies.

What are human rights? 

The United Nations defines it as: “Rights we have simply. Because we exist as human beings – they are not granted by any state. These universal rights are inherent to us all, regardless of nationality, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status. Moreover, They range from the most fundamental – the right to life – to those that make life worth living, such as the rights to food, education, work, health, and liberty.” [4]

Human rights are universal and inalienable; this means that we are all equally entitled to our rights. But they should not be taken away, except in specific situations and according to due process. In addition to that, these prerogatives are Indivisible and interdependent; we all enjoy one set of rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Human rights are equal and non-discriminatory; as Article 1 of the Universal Declaration states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”

What does the Universal Declaration declare?

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948 serves as a guarantee document for all societies regarding human prerogatives. It represents a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations, and it sets out the fundamental human prerogatives to be universally protected. [5]

The Universal Declaration consists of a preamble and thirty articles that affirm the importance of equality and justice among individuals and their right to freedom and peace. “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” [3] Article 1 of the Universal Declaration.

What is the significance of this day?

“All Human… All Equal” was the theme of the United Nations on Human Rights Day 2021. In this sense, and in order to achieve equality, inclusion, and non-discrimination between individuals, all human prerogatives are embodied. As individuals, we must be aware of our rights and strive to enjoy them. Widespread discrimination and inequality, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, have posed a threat to human prerogatives and freedoms. Our mission today is to confront discrimination, make our voices valuable, and defend all our prerogatives and freedoms. 

Through our initiative, Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, we affirm the importance of respecting human rights, believe that every human being has the right to fully enjoy one’s rights and possess freedom and dignity, reject all forms of discrimination, whether on the basis of color, gender, religion, race or language, and we seek through our goals to achieve equality to build peace and preserve the dignity of the individual.

Also read:

• International Volunteer Day.

• International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

• International Day for Tolerance.

References:

[1] Stand Up 4 Human Rights

[2] OHCHR

[3] UN

[4] OHCHR

[5] UN

International Volunteer Day is our great opportunity to renew our covenant with goodness, and with the bits of forgiveness and love that we carry in our hearts. So, We thank you for those efforts.

What is Voluntary Work?

Volunteering is the contribution of time, effort, and talent to a need, cause, or task without financial gain. Volunteering is all about being able to dedicate some of your time to helping people in our communities.

Volunteers support and add to our communities in their unique way using a variety of skills, knowledge, and experience. [1]

International Volunteer Day

International Volunteer Day (IVD) is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly every year on December 5th. It is a unique opportunity for volunteers and voluntary organizations to celebrate their efforts, share their values, and promote their work among their local communities, NGOs, UN agencies, government authorities, and the private sector.

Aside from mobilizing thousands of volunteers each year, The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program contributes to peace and development by advocating for volunteer recognition and working with partners to integrate volunteerism into development programming. The UNV program coordinates International Volunteer Day on December 5th each year to recognize and promote hard work. Not only for UN volunteers but for volunteers all over the world.

Every day, volunteers dedicate time and effort to ensure that those who are often forgotten and left behind are included, advancing climate action and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). [2]

What is the Purpose of International Volunteer Day?

Volunteering is an important part of creating a more equal and inclusive future for societies around the world. In fact, sustainable development cannot be achieved without people’s participation.

Therefore, encouraging, recognizing, and promoting volunteerism will undoubtedly facilitate the attainability of the SDGs. [3]

Because volunteer work:

• Expands your Horizons:

Whether you are a student, a fresh graduate, or even an employee looking for a change or something to help you build a career in a new field of work, volunteering is the key to all of this. Volunteering can open doors for you and provide you with an opportunity. It also broadens your horizons to achieve your goals and build the career path you seek.

Volunteering can give you experience in your area of ​​interest and the opportunity to meet people who specialize in your field. Volunteering allows you to practice important skills used in the workplace, such as teamwork, communication skills, problem-solving, project planning, and time management.

• Appreciating the Value of Life:

Volunteering gives humanity a reason to continue and gives you a reason to live. Volunteering allows you to support the lives of others in the hardships and all the troubles they are going through to help them live another day. When you see all of that, you become thankful for the life you have as you start to see that your problems are not as important as you thought, and thus you become grateful for the life that has been given to you. It makes you a better person mentally and physically. Volunteering provides many benefits in the field of mental and physical health.

• In terms of Mental Health:

Volunteering increases self-confidence and raises self-esteem and self-satisfaction. Your role as a volunteer can give you a sense of pride, belonging, and identity. Reducing the risk of depression is another important benefit of volunteering, as it keeps you in constant contact with others and helps you develop a strong support system.

• In terms of Physical Health:

Volunteering can help you stay healthy, depending on the frequency of movement and the practice of various activities, which contributes greatly to maintaining your health in general. [4]

How Does Volunteering Contribute to Building a Generation’s Culture?

The journey of change begins with an individual. Your participation in volunteer work, even in its simplest form, may inspire the closest people to you, such as your family and friends, to start their volunteer journey. Similarly, they can inspire those they know to start their volunteer journey. And so on until the idea of ​​volunteering is transferred from one individual to another so that it becomes the culture of a society and an entire generation. [5]

Why Do We Celebrate International Volunteer Day?

1. Increasing economic, social, and cultural development.
2. Taking measures to increase and develop an awareness of the importance of volunteer service and the role of volunteering.
3. Encouraging many people to provide their various volunteer services.
4. International Volunteer Day allows and paves the way for organizations that work through volunteering, to enhance their contribution to development at various national, international, and local levels from within and outside countries.
5. Promoting and preserving volunteer work around the world. [4]

United Nations Volunteers Award on the Internet

The National Award for Voluntary Work aims to consolidate and enhance the concepts and practices of sustainable volunteer work, and its positive effects on society, sectors, and individuals, to contribute to achieving one of the goals of Vision 2030, to reach one million volunteers with the goal of encouraging volunteer work in the National Transformation Program. [6]

Facts and Figures About International Volunteer Day

1. The percentage of volunteer work in an informal framework of local communities reaches 70 percent and is not linked to any organization.
2. Social isolation is a major risk factor for depression. Volunteering keeps one in constant contact with others, helps develop a strong support system, and protects against stress and depression. 
3. Research shows that the perception of happiness rises by 7 percent among those who volunteer monthly, and by 12 percent among those who volunteer between 2 to 4 weeks compared to those who had never volunteered. 
4. 29% of the UN volunteers on site were under the age of 29, and 51% of them were women. [7]

And because we, in the Uplifting Syrian Women initiative, seek to inspire people to advance their communities. We call for volunteering because of its goals that benefit the volunteers and society alike. To have a society that rises with the cooperation and cohesion of its members.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peace building in Syria through targeting women and providing them with free online courses, workshops, discussion sessions and trainings, with a view to achieving the goals of Gender Equality, Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth, which all fall into the interest of society as a whole and serve the purpose of rebuilding it.

Also read:

• World Children’s Day.
• International Men’s Day.
• International Day for Tolerance.

References:

[1] Swan

[2] Volunteering Australia

[3] UNDP

[4] Marefa

[5] Nahno

[6] HRSD

[7] UN