International Day for Tolerance

What Is the International Day for Tolerance? A UNESCO Day for "Living Together"

November 16 is the "International Day for Tolerance," established by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 1996. It commemorates UNESCO's adoption of the "Declaration of Principles on Tolerance" on November 16, 1995. Tolerance means respecting and coexisting with people of different cultures, religions, beliefs, and values.

Why Did "Tolerance" Become a Global Theme?

The 20th century was marked by two world wars, the Holocaust, ethnic cleansing, and other tragedies fueled by intolerance. Drawing on these lessons, UNESCO positioned tolerance as the foundation of peace, with a mission to deepen mutual understanding through education, culture, and science. The UNESCO Prize for Tolerance and Non-Violence is awarded each year on this day to individuals and organizations that have promoted tolerance and non-violence.

The Difference Between "Tolerance" and "Mere Endurance or Indifference"

Tolerance does not mean simply "putting up with something you dislike." According to UNESCO's definition, true tolerance means actively embracing diversity and recognizing differences as a source of richness. Turning a blind eye to discrimination, violence, or injustice is not tolerance—on the contrary, these are things we must firmly stand against.

Practicing "Tolerance" in Everyday Life

• Listen all the way through to opinions different from your own: Try to understand someone's position before jumping to a counterargument
• Experience other cultures: Try foreign foods, music, films, and festivals to become familiar with different ways of life
• Reflect on what you post online: Be mindful not to spread hate speech or discriminatory language
• Teach children to find differences interesting: Nurture curiosity rather than fear toward diversity

Start Today by Acknowledging Someone Else's "Difference"

The International Day for Tolerance is a chance to reflect on your own everyday life. At home, at work, or in your community, there are surely moments when you think, "I just don't get it" or "why would they do that." Rather than dismissing those feelings, accepting that "a different world exists" is the first step toward peace.