International Day of Non-Violence 2023: Date, History, How to Observe

In the last century, the term nonviolence has been used so frequently that its meaning has taken on new forms. Often misunderstood as a synonym for pacifism — which it can be — nonviolence has also been adopted by groups around the world as a tool for social change, as opposed to merely opposition to conflict.

Today we celebrate the birthday of a man who contributed to the development of the concept of “nonviolence” and the enormous impact this form of social response has had throughout the globe over the past century. On the International Day of Non-Violence, created by the United Nations in 2007, we reflect back on the influence of an Indian activist born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi but known the world over as Mahatma Gandhi. The International Day of Non-Violence celebrates the impact of Gandhi’s work and legacy on nonviolent protest worldwide.

The United Nations has excellent reason to celebrate International Day of Nonviolence on Gandhi’s birthday. Gandhi’s dedication to India’s independence and his methods have served as the foundation for civil and human rights initiatives around the globe. Gandhi believed that using violence to accomplish peace was completely irrational and that “just means lead to just ends.” This is a lesson that we can all learn from.

The background of International Day of Non-Violence

In the last century, the term “nonviolence” has been used so frequently that its meaning has taken on new forms. Often misunderstood as a synonym for pacifism — which it can be — nonviolence has also been adopted by groups around the world as a tool for social change, as opposed to merely opposition to conflict. Through education and awareness, the United Nations intends to disseminate the numerous forms of nonviolence that exist today.

Under the umbrella term “nonviolence” are a variety of subcategories. In the 1960s, nonviolent actions such as protests, marches, and vigils were utilized effectively to bring about social change in the United States. In America, non-cooperation and non-violent intervention, such as blockades and sit-ins, were also effective in demonstrating further inequalities. These efforts all contributed to the peaceful dissemination of ideas.

Globalization has resulted in a more productive global economy, but it has also increased the complexity of problems that must be resolved. To prevent these problems from escalating into violence, it will be crucial to disseminate nonviolent ideas and success tales.

Happy Gandhi Jayanti Wishes, Messages and Quotes in Hindi

HOW TO OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF NON-VIOLENCE

Learn about Gandhi

We can learn much from Gandhi, who was one of the world’s foremost and most influential leaders of the 20th century. Here are two of his most popular sayings. “There are many causes for which I would perish. There is no cause for which I would murder.” “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.”

Identify or plan an event

The United Nations hosts official events around the globe to commemorate the resolution of 2007, but there are also countless celebrations of Gandhi’s life on his birthday. Or, if you are passionate about a specific issue, use this day as an occasion to take nonviolent action to make your voice heard.

Perform an act of random generosity.

With the rise of social media, the concept of Random Acts of Kindness has taken off, as the recipients of RAKs frequently express their gratitude online. Today, make Gandhi proud by going above and beyond to make a stranger’s day better. Pay the toll for the person in the car behind you, leave a positive note with a friend, clean the snow off a stranger’s windshield — the possibilities are infinite. As Gandhi stated, “be the change you wish to see in the world.”