In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed July 18 as Nelson Mandela International Day in recognition of his contribution to peace and freedom. So every year on July 18, coinciding with Nelson Mandela’s birthday, the UN invites everyone to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day by taking part in small actions in their own communities.
This day offers an opportunity to promote change and work towards a better world. For 67 years, Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to the service of humanity, fulfilling roles as human rights advocate, prisoner of conscience, peacemaker, and the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa. He became a symbol of the fight against racism, peace and freedom.
The objective of this day is to honor Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity through his work in areas such as conflict resolution, race relations, the promotion and protection of human rights, reconciliation, equality gender issues, the rights of children and other vulnerable groups, as well as the fight against poverty and the promotion of social justice. His contribution to the international struggle for democracy and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world is also recognized.
