International Celebration

The International Day of Education is an occasion set up every year with the goal to revive the importance of education and its role in building nations. This day clarifies the importance of education in building international development and achieving peace. Receiving a good education is one of the human rights. In addition to that, it builds an individual and social personality that contributes to achieving a sustainable future.

“We must work more on intensifying efforts to advance with the fourth goal of the Sustainable Development Goals, which calls for ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.“
– Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres. [1]

The International Day of Education

1- The General Assembly of The United Nations proclaimed the 24th of January as the International Day of Education to celebrate the role of education in achieving peace and development. [2]
2- The general assembly of The United Nations decided on the third of December, 2018 to establish the International Day of Education. The International Day of Education was celebrated for the first time on 24/January/2019. [3]

As it was a clear continuation of the fourth goal of Sustainable Development Goals which states “ Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all“ According to the UNESCO World Education Report, changing the future requires us to refind balance in our relationships with each other, as well as our relationship with nature and technology that infiltrated our lives, and to deal with the numerous opportunities of scientific breakthroughs, which also bring along serious concerns about equality, inclusion and democratic participation. [4]

Objectives of the International Day of Education

There is no doubt that the international days celebrated by the United Nations and international organizations reflect the significance of the celebrated subject.  In addition, the existence of international days aims to encourage the world to achieve its related goals. 

Speaking of goals, these are some of the goals of the International Day of Education:

1. Achieving Sustainable Development Goals for the year 2023, because providing education is basically one of the Sustainable Development Goals, and these goals come together to promote a safe and sustainable community.
2. Improving the level of education: on this day, communities and international organizations are encouraged to raise awareness of the importance of education. 
3. Dissolving the poverty problem, since illiteracy is closely related to poverty.

Education is a human right, and on the International Day of Education, we shine a light on the most important human right which is (education). This aims to spread education in developing countries and prevent its monopolization by developed communities. Furthermore, the right to education is stated expressly in /Article 26/ of The Universal Declaration of Human Rights; which calls for free and obligatory elementary education. The Convention on the Rights of the Child – adopted in 1989 – goes further and states that higher education shall be made available to all. [1]

Celebration of the International Day of Education in 2023

This year, the celebration of the International Day of Education will be a platform to present the most important transformations that must be developed in order to save the basic right of all to education and build a future characterized as more sustainable, inclusive and peaceful. 

The celebration of this day will spark discussions on how to promote education as a public work and benefit, and how to guide digital transformation, support educators, and preserve the planet Earth. It will also release the latent potential of each person for them to be able to contribute to the achievement of our collective well-being and the preservation of our mutual home. [2]

The Challenges of Achieving Inclusive Education

The importance of education lies in the fact that it forms an escape from poverty and a way to find a promising future.  However, there are approximately (265 million) children and adolescents in the world who have neither the access nor the means to complete their education. There are (617) million children and adolescents who cannot read or perform basic mathematical operations. In addition, less than 40% of girls in Africa – south of the desert – were able to complete secondary education. And nearly four million children, boys, and girls, in refugee camps are not enrolled in schools. All of this is a violation of the right to education for all those individuals and this is unacceptable.

Violating the right to education and not securing it will negatively affect developing countries that are making their way toward a better future. It will also cause a gender inequality cycle and a lack of inclusive and equal educational opportunities. [1] 

The UNESCO Report on the Future of Education

The UNESCO report on the future of education portrays the reality of digital technologies, climate change, democratic decline, societal polarization, and the future of work. It also urges every member of society to work to achieve the desired radical change in the future of education. We can also benefit from millions of individual and collective actions marked by courage, leadership, resistance, and creativity.

To read more about the UNESCO report on the future of education, from here: UNESCO report.

USW Initiative and International Day of Education

One of the main goals of the initiative is to provide educational opportunities for young women and men through free online courses. Through these opportunities, the initiative seeks to achieve the fourth Sustainable Development Goal, along with the goal of gender equality. On this day, we cannot help but focus on the importance of education in building a peaceful and sustainable society.

International Day of Education is the ladder through which we can advance education in the world. It is also the unified and only way to solve the problem of poverty and ignorance and achieve the goals of sustainable development. On this day, we invite everyone to reflect on the importance of education and to gather voices to call for science.

Also read:

• International Day of Epidemic Preparedness.
• International Day for Tolerance.

• World Arabic Language Day.

References:

[1] UN

[2] UNESCO

[3] MOE

[4] UNESDOC

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness serves as a reminder to be really prepared for what’s to come. This day has become important after the last pandemic the world faced, the COVID-19 pandemic, which changed the world’s features, and its impact extended to other aspects of life not related to health (such as the economic and social aspects).

“The COVID-19 pandemic will not be the last pandemic humanity will face, and infectious diseases remain a clear and present danger to every country. As we respond to this health crisis, we need to prepare for the next one. This means scaling-up investments in better monitoring, early detection, and rapid response plans in every country.”
– António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, in 2021. [2]

What terms should we be aware of on the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness? 

Epidemiology: is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study to the control of health problems. [3] 

Pandemics: are when an epidemic occurs worldwide, crossing international borders and affecting many people. [1]

Infectious Diseases: are disorders caused by organisms – such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Many organisms live in and on our bodies. They’re normally harmless or even helpful. But under certain conditions, some organisms may cause disease. [4]

How do epidemics spread? 

In this century alone, the world has seen deadly regional outbreaks of ebola, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and coronavirus, among many others. And virtually every person on our planet has been affected by the direct or secondary impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.[1]

Pathogenic microorganisms multiply very quickly, and they also feature that their genetic material is not adequately protected. This makes them susceptible to mutations or changes, and these changes are the cause of the problem.

Initially, an imbalance occurs in the system of epidemic-causing organisms, such as viruses, germs, or parasites, which calls for a different response from our bodies or from the bodies of other organisms when exposed to them. Animals or plants — mostly animals — cause the transmission of these diseases to humans. In this case, there are two possibilities: 

• The first possibility is that a living body will respond to this change and form an immune response against it. 
• The second one is that these antigens will overcome the immune system causing the live organism to develop new symptoms. These symptoms may not correspond to pre-existing treatments and may evolve into an organism’s death and things get out of hand. This disease is therefore transmitted to and affected by human beings.

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is the reason for raising awareness of pandemic knowledge, transmission, and how to respond. When the pathogen is transmitted from one person to another, there are several cases that help and facilitate this transmission, including:

• Transmission by infection.
• Transmission by air.
• Transmission by insects.
• Transmission by the fecal-oral route.

After the large spread of social media as a rapid source of information and common events or so-called “trends”, some resorted to publishing misleading, inaccurate, and unclear content about recent epidemics such as the Corona pandemic. However, sites such as Twitter acknowledged that misleading or inaccurate content would be removed and this coincided with both Facebook and Microsoft’s announcements. [5]

Here, the role of the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is highlighted in making this epidemiological knowledge spread among all. It also shows us the importance of taking news from its correct sources and not relying on social media.

What does International Day of Epidemic Preparedness say about responding to Epidemics?

The first step and the seed of success is planning; we must devote time and effort to planning to address emergency health crises such as epidemics, some of which may turn into a pandemic. Thus, we mitigate the losses we may suffer when the epidemic occurs without planning to overcome them.

The first thing to focus on is societies that show the first response when disasters occur. The need to raise awareness, build culture, and effective and correct response mechanisms when epidemics occur is therefore inevitable. This is followed by an interest in the health sector and an effort to develop, support, and rehabilitate it to respond to epidemics. It is advisable to provide training to a group of individuals we may call ‘specialized emergency responders’ and to also provide them with specialized courses in epidemiology and response. Last but not least, spend generously on scientific research, experiments, and research based on the development of treatments, vaccines, and biotechnologies.

What is our role on International Day of Epidemic Preparedness?

World Epidemic Preparedness Day calls for awareness of the factor that causes the epidemic and its details. In addition to the need to adhere to the guidance and instructions provided to us by the ministries and concerned parties. It is also important to take information from reliable sources, not to spread panic with rumors and misinformation, and to keep away from anything that will lead to the further spread of this epidemic. 

Awareness of finding alternatives to continue our life is one of the goals of International Day of Epidemic Preparedness.; an example of alternatives is remote business and learning during the Covid-19 pandemic. International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is the world’s warning to raise awareness about the epidemic and its grave risks. In the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, we hope that the Syrian women’s community will be aware enough to deal effectively with health risks and raise awareness about these topics.

Also read:

• International Human Solidarity Day.
• World Arabic Language Day.
• United Nations Day.

References:

[1] IFRC

[2] UN

[3] CDC

[4] Mayo Clinic

[5] BBC

“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

Violence against women is paralysis in society’s body. Violence is harm, no matter what you call it. As women are the pillar of this society and the womb for change, development, and creativity, it is our duty to support them and support their rights to refuse and choose.

“Violence in any part of society affects us all. From scars on the next generation to the weakening of the social fabric.”
– António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General.

The human instinct has been built on peace and rejection of violence, but when this violence turns into a habit, a societal trait or a predominant culture, this instinct will inevitably weaken and you will become accustomed to scenes of violence of all kinds.  Violence against women is a coffin that mourns the splendor of life on the coffin of silence and makes societal peace release its last rattle in the dusk of inhumanity. 

History of international day for the elimination of violence against women 

The United Nations General Assembly in 1999 designated 25 November as the international day for the elimination of violence against women and has inspired associations and organizations around the world to raise public awareness of the issue and oppose it. 

Violence against women is defined as: “any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life.” 

This date was selected to honor the Mirabal sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were brutally murdered in 1960 by the order of the country’s ruler, Rafael Trujillo. [1]

The importance of this day for women 

According to the World Health Organization, one in three women experiences violence. [2]
Violence against women remains an obstacle in the way of achieving equality and building peace. For example, but not limited to, violence against women manifests itself in physical, sexual, and psychological forms, encompassing:

• Intimate partner violence and sexual harassment. 
• Human trafficking. 
• Female genital mutilation. 
• Child marriage.
• Verbal and physical harassment affects mental health. 

The consequences of violence against women affect women’s mental health directly. In addition to causing a severe disruption in the community’s cohesion. [3]

However, the existence of this international day allows most women and girls to raise their voices in the face of violence directed against them and increases their belief that the society with its youth, institutions, and associations, are all, side by side, with women supporting all their rights.  It is everyone’s responsibility to preserve everyone, and this is what the SDG promise makes clear, “we will leave no one behind.”

We may find what is being done on this day is simple but the little things add up and affect our respect towards this case.  On top of it, take off the robe of the silence of all forms of violence against women. 

Counteracting violence against women 

The first step in counteracting violence is to recognize it and then reject it.  Every time the woman has to face her problems silently, but this time we strive to join hands in order to make her voice heard and her presence a reality. 

Campaigns, events, and publications can widely spread awareness about the dangers of violence against women and its negative impact on community cohesion.  Just as a spot of light may have an effect in dissipating the darkness, we can put this issue under the human microscope, shed light on it with truth and advocacy and seek to counteract it and prevent its recurrence. 

In fact, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women constitutes a hope for some women that their voices are heard and their problems are understood.  A hope that represents a lifeline from drowning in the sea of violence and crime against women and humanity. A rope that connects them to reality free from violence coercion and oppression. 

We, at Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, believe in the right of women to live a dignified life, free of violence and based on development and equality. We seek through our goals to mobilize advocacy for building peace and eliminating violence. 

♀️ 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:

• International Day of Rural Women.
• International Day of Non-Violence.
• Violence Against Women.

References:

[1] UN

[2] WHO

[3] UN

World Children’s Day is celebrated on the 20th of November every year. It aims to enhance children’s well-being and to unite all to reach the day when children gain protection and psychological and emotional stability in all countries of the world. Since the child is the first seed for society, and obtaining a mature, fruitful seed is a goal for civilized societies, many have sought to sanctify this day and give it its importance.

What is World Children’s Day?

The United Nations General Assembly declared November 20, 1954, World Children’s Day. [1] In it, they highlighted the need to take care of children as an important part of society and as fuel for building a bright future. This date was adopted for signing the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989, which recognized many rights for children around the world. Therefore, most countries celebrate this day and hold many different activities and celebrations.

Convention on the Rights of the Child

The Convention was signed by 192 countries and ratified by most countries. The Convention considers that for a child to grow up fully and soundly, he must be in a healthy environment full of happiness and understanding. In addition to raising him on ideals and teaching him love, tolerance, and respect for others. And many more objectives like:

1. A child is every human being under the age of eighteen.
2. Every child has an inherent right to live.
3. Protection of the child from all forms of discrimination, regardless of the child’s race, parents, color, race, and religion.
4. The child is guaranteed the freedom to form and express his thoughts in all matters that concern him. [2]

The Importance of World Children’s Day and The Activities Held In It

This day constitutes a necessary event to draw the world’s attention to the necessity of providing all the necessities of life for children. And that each of them has basic rights that everyone should be aware of. In addition, it is a special and unique day, and as described by the United Nations, “a fun day with a serious message.” It contains many entertaining activities for children. Markets and malls offer discounts on baby products and free tickets to cinemas and parks. Many events are held in schools and parents and teachers meet. Thus, the child feels his importance as a small individual growing up in a loving community.

Challenges and Difficulties Facing Children In The World

Many children in the world live under physical and psychological pressures that affect their being and lead to wrong development. The statistics showed that:

1. 103 million children in the Horn of Africa suffer from malnutrition and poverty, according to UNICEF.
2. According to the United Nations, as of 2002, there were 22 million homeless children around the world.
3. 93% of children under the age of 15 breathe polluted air which puts their health at risk. In addition, 600,000 children died in 2016 due to respiratory infections, according to the United Nations. [3]

Many other studied and unstudied statistics confirm that many of the world’s children are exposed to many risks.

Celebrations of World Children’s Day Around The World

Many countries are preparing to celebrate as famous buildings are lit up in blue, which is their official emblem. This day is an official holiday in many countries. UNICEF holds challenges and competitions and asks to imagine and paint the world after the Corona pandemic. Here are some facts about this day:

1. World Children’s Day is a public holiday in some places such as Turkey and Argentina.
2. This day is celebrated in India on the 14th of November. It is the birthday of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who loved children very much.
3. A whole children’s week is celebrated in Australia.
4. Instead of celebrating International Children’s Day, France celebrates Family Day on January 6th. [4]

World Children’s Day is a special date for child care and an affirmation of the importance of children’s rights and requirements, and we can all celebrate with our children and make them happy and do the activities they love together.

Also read:

• International Men’s Day.
• World Science Day for Peace and Development.
• International Day of Rural Women.

♀️ 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.

References:

[1] Wikipedia

[2] OHCHR

[3] UN

[4] Parenting

International Men’s Day is the day that the world celebrates the man whether he’s a father, a brother, a friend, or a colleague. The importance of International Men’s Day comes from the positive role of men in the building and development of society.

This day enhances the culture of equality between the two genders and holds in its folds history and many pillars that aim to care about the man as an essential component of society. And perhaps the most important to our initiative is equality and justice between men and women, without distinction between genders. So it was important to display the initiative’s opinion on International Men’s Day.

International Men’s Day

 you might be surprised when you hear about a specialized day of the year for the celebration of men around the world. Many people may think there’s no need for this day because men or males are the reason for problems in countries and the world. And they are the ones who cause violence against women or children most of the time. In addition to this matter, the typical image of men in most societies means cruelty and lack of tenderness.

Also, it is said in our eastern societies “ A man does not cry“. But what would be the point of view of the man himself? Do men haven’t the need to cry or do they not get tired from life as others do? This is where the importance of this international day came from to remind and confirm that man is a human being who needs to rest and needs to be reminded of his achievements and helped to move forward in life. Therefore this day is as important as any other international day. 

The history and Pillars of International Men‘s Day

After celebrating International Women‘s Day on the 8th of March of 1975 by The United Nations, and after the popularity of this day the voices of men around the world raised as they demanded a special day for men to be equal with women. But their demands were not answered until the year 1999 when doctor Gerome Teloksing organized a lecture on the 19th of November to celebrate men. That’s why this day was specified to be celebrated as International Men’s Day. [2]

The celebration of international men’s day includes the following essential pillars: 

1. Focusing on the mentality of men. As it is known internationally that men are the most who commit suicide, especially below the age of 45. For example, 84 men commit suicide every week in Britain, and so the rate of men’s suicide in Britain is triple of women‘s suicide.
2. Improving relations between the two genders and enhancing humane values. 
3. Raising awareness of the need for gender equality that will make the world a better place for all.
4. Shed light on male role models around the world. To remind all of the necessity of man’s presence in all parts of life. And that the world will be radically different when you know the role of each person in it. This will help create a just and secure society. Because, as is well known, behind every great man is a greater woman. [1]

Equality Between Men and Women

A man is a woman’s partner in life. Therefore, achieving equality between men and women greatly contributes to creating healthy societies. The importance of equality does not come only in rights and duties, but must be present in all educational, economic, political, and other fields.

When there is this equality between men and women, many of the lofty principles that man seeks to achieve are realized. Such as human rights, sustainable development goals, and the economic and social growth of developing countries. Therefore, this day of the year was dedicated as a reminder of the necessity of men‘s presence in all parts of life to achieve equality.

The Opinion of Our Initiative Around International Men’s Day

The Uplifting Syrian Women initiative sees this day as a necessity and a basic need to emphasize the importance of a man’s presence in life because each of us has a role and impact in life. In addition to the initiative’s endeavor to uplift Syrian women, it also seeks to raise the standard of life for Syrian men through monthly training.  In addition to the workshops that help men improve and develop their lives to be influential people in Syrian society. And to be able to assume the responsibilities placed upon them to build this society.

Also read:

• International Day for Tolerance.
• International Day of Sport.
• International Day of Living Together in Peace.

♀️ 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.

References:

[1] Sky News

[2] Inclusive Employers

Why does the International Day for Tolerance exist and what is the story behind this day? Let’s find out together.

“Lenity is a part of justice.”
– Joseph Joubert. [1]

If we mention the synonyms of tolerance, they will be respect, acceptance, and appreciation for the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression, and our ways of being human. This tolerance is reinforced by knowledge, openness, communication, and freedom of thought, conscience, and belief. It is harmony in the context of difference, and it is not only a moral duty but also a political and legal duty as well. 

Tolerance is the virtue that facilitates the accomplishment of peace and contributes to achieving a culture of peace instead of a culture of war. Tolerance is the responsibility that upholds human rights, diversity (including cultural diversity), democracy, and the rule of law. It involves the rejection of dogmatism and absolutism and affirms the standards set out in international human rights instruments.

What is the story of the International Day for Tolerance? 

The United Nations is committed to reinforcing tolerance by promoting mutual understanding between cultures and peoples. The necessity of this commitment lies at the heart of the Charter of the United Nations, as well as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is more important now than ever. Especially in this era of increased violent extremism and the breadth of conflicts that ignore human life.

In 1996, the General Assembly invited the Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November, with appropriate activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public (Resolution 51/95 of December 12). This action came in the wake of the 1993 declaration by the General Assembly of 1995 as the United Nations Year for Tolerance. At the UNESCO General Conference on November 16, 1995, Member States adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and a Plan of Action for the Follow-up to the United Nations Year for Tolerance.

The United Nations Assembly issued the “UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize for the Promotion of Tolerance and Non-Violence”. This award was established in 1995 to mark the United Nations Year for Tolerance and the 125th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi. That year, UNESCO Member States adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance. The creation of the Prize was inspired by the ideals of UNESCO’s Constitution. The charter states that “peace must be founded, if it is not to fail, upon the intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind.”

The prize, which is awarded every two years during an official ceremony marking the International Day for Tolerance (16 November), is a reward for personalities, institutions, or organizations that have distinguished themselves for particularly meritorious initiatives. It also aims at promoting understanding and settling international or national problems in a spirit of tolerance and non-violence. [2]

Basic information on the International Day for Tolerance

On the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of UNESCO on November 16, 1995, Member States adopted a Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, which affirms that tolerance does not mean indulgence or indifference. Rather, it is respect and appreciation for the rich diversity of this world’s cultures, expressions and lifestyles adopted by humans. Tolerance recognizes universal human rights and the fundamental freedoms of others, and since people are diverse by nature, only tolerance can ensure the survival of mixed societies in every region of the world.

The Declaration defines tolerance not only as a moral obligation but also as a political and legal condition for individuals, groups, and nations. It also links the issue of tolerance in international human rights instruments that have been developed over the past fifty years. That emphasizes the importance of states drafting new legislation when necessary to ensure equal treatment and equal opportunities for all groups and individuals in society.

Discrimination and marginalization, along with blatant injustice and violence, are common forms of intolerance. Therefore, education for tolerance should aim at staving off influences that generate feelings of fear and exclusion from others. It should also help young people develop their capacities to make independent judgments and stimulate critical reflection and moral reasoning. The diversity of religions, languages, cultures, and ethnicities in our world should not be an excuse for conflict. Rather, it is a treasure from which all mankind is enriched. [2]

What part does a woman take from this day? 

Women have always been exposed to inequalities in all fields. Therefore, the International Day for Tolerance came as one of the solutions to raise awareness of gender tolerance. This has helped support gender equality and non-violent issues, especially with women. All for the purpose of tolerance and peace. 

An example of women’s participation in tolerance campaigns is the participation of some women in the Colombian negotiations calling for tolerance and peace. [3]

As our initiative aims at building a cohesive, strong, and harmonious society with its members and their differences. In view of its belief that tolerance is a fundamental pillar for achieving peace and harmony among individuals, and that this goal can only be achieved through peace, we believe that practicing tolerance in our lives contributes to the elevation of our society and all its members.

Also read:

• World Science Day for Peace and Development.
• United Nations Day.
• World Food Day.

♀️ Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative aims at sustainable peacebuilding 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.

References:

[1] Hekam

[2] UN

[3] UN Women