In Message for International Non-Violence Day, Secretary-General Extolls Gandhi’s Rule of Law Approach to Breaking Cycles of Vengeance

Following is UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message for the International Day of Non-violence, observed on 2 October:

This year, as we commemorate the seventieth anniversary of the United Nations, the International Day of Non-Violence has special importance.  At a time of escalating conflicts, violent extremism, displacement and humanitarian need, the courage and determination of Mahatma Gandhi, whose birthday we celebrate today, is an inspiration for us all.

Gandhi showed the power of peacefully opposing oppression and hatred.  He showed how cooperation and tolerance can prevails over injustice.  He demonstrated the great value of the rule of law in breaking vicious cycles of vengeance.

The United Nations stands for the peaceful resolution of disputes and for mutual respect across culture, faith and other lines that might divide.

The International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures, first proposed by UNESCO [United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization] for the period 2013-2022, has generated a wide range of creative projects that demonstrate the power of diversity and dialogue as forces for peace.

The new 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development can also point the way towards reducing violence.  A more sustainable world will be a safer world.

On this year’s International Day of Non-violence, let us recall the achievements of Mahatma Gandhi — and renew our commitment to non-violence and lives of dignity for all.