International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace aims to educate the public about the value of diplomacy in maintaining international peace and cultivating a culture of collaboration among nations. This day also serves as a channel to reaffirm the enduring importance of multilateralism in conflict resolution and upholding human rights. It encourages nations to resolve disputes through diplomacy and dialogue, emphasizing the role of international organizations in fostering world harmony.

Endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018, this day highlights the pivotal role diplomacy plays in creating global harmony. For South Africans, celebrating International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace means acknowledging the country's diplomatic efforts in global interactions, influencing international law, and contributing to stability within the African continent. It underlines South Africa's commitment to multilateral diplomacy in resolving tension across borders, fostering peace and security both regionally and globally.

Typically, this day is observed within South Africa through educational programs, seminars, and collaborative diplomatic engagements aimed to promote the essence and practice of active diplomacy. It offers the opportunity to enhance knowledge and foster discussions about global relationships, peacemaking, and multilateral diplomacy. The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Pretoria often organizes events that echo this observance's core values. International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is held annually on April 24, joining their global counterparts in highlighting the role of multilateral diplomatic engagements in fostering international peace.

Facts about this day

• The use of multilateral treaties allows three or more sovereign states to agree to certain policies or guidelines. Some of these treaties include the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and the Geneva Conventions.
• Various events, discussions, and activities are organized by member states, UN agencies, and civil society organizations on this day, driving global attention towards the importance of multilateralism and diplomacy in promoting peace and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first black president, was worldwide recognized for promoting peace and diplomacy. He played a key role in promoting dialogue as a tool for conflict resolution and peace-building globally. His principles align with the observance of International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.
• South Africa has often offered to host peace talks between conflicting parties, further showing its commitment to multilateralism and diplomacy for peace. For instance, it hosted historic peace talks between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the rebel group M23 in 2013.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

Top things to do in South Africa for this observance

• Check and see whether your home country has accepted the jurisdiction of the UN's International Court of Justice.
• Learn more about the UN's Mediation Support Unit and how they work to achieve sustainable peace.
• Visit the Apartheid Museum - It provides visitors with a deep understanding of the structure and effects of apartheid.
• Read a book to learn more about Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace in South Africa:
  1) The Diplomacy of Liberation: The Foreign Relations of the African National Congress since 1960 - by Scott Thomas: This book is about the ANC's struggle to implement its foreign policy of human rights and democracy since coming to power, particularly in its relations with the developed world.
  2) South Africa’s Post-Apartheid Foreign Policy: From Reconciliation to Revival? - by Adekeye Adebajo: This book investigates the spectrum of South African foreign policy.