IFUW: Decade for Peace

Decade for Peace

What is the Decade for Peace?

Year 2000 was a starting point for a major mobilization as it was the International Year for the Culture of Peace. On this occasion, a global movement for a culture of peace was initiated by the United Nations to create an "alliance" of existing movements that unites all those already working for a culture of peace in its eight domains of action. This movement is now growing with the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-violence for the Children of the World (2001-2010).

Manifesto 2000 for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence

Manifesto 2000 for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence was drafted by a group of Nobel Peace Prize Laureates to to foster individual awareness and commitment. It is a pledge signed by each individual that he or she will practice the principles of a Culture of Peace.

The United Nations Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (UNESCO) has distributed the Manifesto 2000 throughout the world in a massive campaign encouraging individuals, organizations, institutions and governments to sign a pledge to support its principles. It is still possible to sign the Manifesto by going to the UNESCO site - http://www3.unesco.org/iycp/uk/uk_sum_ethicalcharter.htm

Respect All Life
Respect the life and dignity of each human being without discrimination or prejudice

Reject Violence
Practise active non-violence in all its forms: physical, sexual, psychological, economical and social, in particular towards the most deprived and vulnerable such as children and adolescents

Share with others
Share my time and material resources in a spirit of generosity to put an end to exclusion, injustice and political and economic oppression.

Listen to understand
Defend freedom of expression and cultural diversity, giving preference always to dialogue and listening without engaging in fanaticism, defamation and the rejection of others.

Preserve the planet
Promote consumer behaviour that is responsible and development practices that respect all forms of life and preserve the balance of nature on the planet.

Rediscover solidarity
Contribute to the development of my community, with the full participation of women and respect for democratic principles, in order to create together new forms of solidarity.