Nelson Mandela International Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History
Nelson Mandela International Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History: Every year on July 18, Nelson Mandela Day is honoured. The United Nations (UN) designated July 18 as Nelson Mandela Day in 2009 to recognise Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid leader who served as the country’s first President from 1994 to 1999. Mandela was the first black head of state and was the first elected President in a fully democratic election in South Africa. The Day will also enlighten his transitional steps to defeat multiracial democracy in South Africa. This article entitles the history and significance of this day authentically.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: July 2023
The day was first observed on July 18, 2010, Mandela’s 92nd birthday, to commemorate the anti-apartheid leader’s achievements. To mark the first celebration of Mandela Day, fundraising programs, art exhibitions and music concerts were organised.
Theme for Nelson Mandela International Day 2023
With the theme Climate, Food & Solidarity, we are calling on our partners and the public to take action against climate change and create food-resilient environments in solidarity with communities across the world facing crisis due to climate change. This year, the call to action is, “It’s in your hands”.
Significance of Nelson Mandela International Day 2023
Nelson Mandela Day signifies the importance of serving humankind and working for those who cannot fight on their own. Mandela Day is a global call to action which celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to bring a change and make an impact on society. This day is important in honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy as the former South African President. This day, often known as ‘46664,’ was created to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS. 46664 was a series of AIDS benefit concerts played in honour of Nelson Mandela by South African and foreign musicians between 2003 and 2008.
History of Nelson Mandela International Day
In November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared July 18 as ‘Nelson Mandela International Day to recognise the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom in society. He was not only the first democratically elected black president but also a man with colossal dreams to transform the world.
This day acknowledges his fight against poverty, gender inequality, racism, and the abolition of human rights. UN’s resolution A/RES/64/13 observes Mandela’s values and his lifelong dedication to the service of humanity.