Change mindsets enshrined with tolerance

Exercising tolerance is in line with the teachings of the Lord Buddha as well as in accord with Myanmar traditions. UNESCO, one of the great agencies of the United Nations released the 1995 declaration of principles on tolerance, saying that tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human.

 

The UN General Assembly proclaimed 16 November as the International Day for Tolerance and invited UN Member States to observe such kind of significant day on 16 November 1996, with ac­tivities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public. It is the day honouring the people who can keep their tolerance in their minds.

 

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. It is respect and appre­ciation of the rich variety of the world’s cultures, forms of expression and ways of being human. 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.

 

In fact, human society needs to foster tolerance in all aspects to be able to restore perpetual peace. Only when perpetual peace flourishes will society be prosperous. As such, all citizens need to initiate activities of tolerance with compassion and empathy for each other as part of sustaining peaceful and tranquil rays.

 

Tolerance requires investment by States in people, and in the fulfilment of their full potential through education, inclusion and opportunities. This means building societies founded on respect for human rights, where fear, distrust and marginalization are supplanted by pluralism, participation and respect for differences.

 

On the International Day of Tolerance, let’s recognize the mounting threat posed by those who strive to divide, and let’s pledge to forge a path defined by dialogue, social cohesion and mutual understanding. Actually, exercising tolerance can ease any restrictions and can influence others. It is beneficial for society. Such great efforts can easily overcome challenges in doing everything.

 

As such, everybody needs to uphold tolerance to shape society pleasantly. It can create an environment filled with peaceful and stable activities in addition to satisfaction with own efforts and creation, which are grateful to society and the Universe. Let’s change the mindsets of all with tolerance.