By Janet Ekstract
UNITED NATIONS (TURKISH JOURNAL)- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres commented in his press statement that Nelson Mandela International Day reminds us of the call to solidarity and an end to racism. Guterres pointed out that this is an opportunity to “reflect on the life and legacy of a legendary global advocate for dignity, equality, justice and human rights.” The secretary-general said that on October 19 each year Mandela’s birthday – “we pay tribute to this extraordinary man who embodied the highest aspirations of the United Nations and the human family.”
Guterres reiterated that Mandela’s (Madiba’s) relevancy is especially significant now in a time of misinformation and threats to democracy worldwide. He pointed out that global societies have become “more polarized” while hate crimes as well as hate speech are increasing. Science and democratic institutions are being undermined, Guterres highlighted. He added that the continuing COVID-19 pandemic underscores how dire the situation really is while rolling back years of progress in combatting poverty around the world.
The secretary-general underscored how during times of crisis it is always “the marginalized and discriminated against who suffer the most often while being blamed for problems they did not cause.” He emphasized that the global pandemic demonstrates the “vital importance of human solidarity and unity, values championed and exemplified by Nelson Mandela in his lifelong fight for peace.” The UN chief commented that everyone should be inspired by Mandela’s message that all individuals “can make a difference in promoting peace, human rights, harmony with nature and dignity for all.” Guterres concluded: “No one is safe until all are safe. And each one of us has a part to play.” He added: “Let us honor Madiba’s call to action and be empowered by his legacy.”
