International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace 2023

The International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is celebrated annually on 24 April. The Day acknowledges the use of multilateral decision making and diplomacy in achieving peaceful resolutions to conflicts among nations. This day aims to promote the principles of multilateralism and diplomacy in resolving global challenges and conflicts. The observance also serves as a reminder of the importance of the United Nations and other multilateral organizations in facilitating cooperation and collective action among nations.

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What is multilateralism?

Multilateralism is a philosophy or approach to international relations that emphasizes the need for cooperation and coordination among multiple countries and international organizations to address global issues and achieve common goals. It involves the idea that no single country can solve complex global problems such as climate change, international trade, or terrorism on its own, and that collective action and shared responsibility are necessary. Multilateralism is based on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and diplomacy, and it seeks to foster a more inclusive and transparent global governance system that allows for broad-based participation and consensus-building. Multilateralism is often embodied through international agreements, treaties, and organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, or the International Monetary Fund, among others.

International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace 2023: History

The International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is a relatively new observance. It was first proposed by the delegation of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations in 2018 as a way to promote and reinforce the principles of multilateralism and diplomacy in international affairs. The proposal received support from a group of countries from different regions of the world, and on December 12, 2018, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution (A/RES/73/127) declaring April 24th as the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.

The establishment of this observance was seen as a response to the growing challenges to the international rules-based order and the principles of multilateralism and diplomacy, as well as to promote peaceful conflict resolution and cooperation among nations. The day aims to raise awareness of the importance of multilateralism and diplomacy in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development, human rights, and peace. It also recognizes the role of the United Nations and other multilateral institutions in advancing these objectives. The first International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace was celebrated on April 24, 2019.

World Book and Copyright Day 2023

World Book and Copyright Day is observed on April 23 every year to promote reading books, particularly among the younger generation. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) initiated this event with the aim of combating the reduced importance given to reading due to the excessive availability of information from various sources. The purpose of this day is to encourage people worldwide to cultivate a habit of reading books. The focus is on promoting reading as the primary source of information and entertainment.

World Book and Copyright Day 2023: Theme

The theme for World Book Day 2023 is ‘Indigenous Languages.’ It focuses on promoting the diversity in native languages of a country.

World Book and Copyright Day 2023: Significance

World Book and Copyright Day holds significant importance as it aims to promote reading and literacy, encourage the publishing and protection of books, and honor the contributions of authors and their works. By celebrating this day, UNESCO intends to promote reading as a fundamental human right, a source of education, and a tool for personal development and cultural understanding. Additionally, this day raises awareness of the importance of copyright laws in protecting the intellectual property rights of authors and publishers. Overall, World Book and Copyright Day serves as a reminder of the vital role that books, authors, and copyright laws play in enriching our lives and shaping society.

World Book and Copyright Day: History

The history of World Book and Copyright Day dates back to 1922 when Vicente Clavel, the director of the Cervantes publishing firm, proposed the idea of dedicating a day to Miguel de Cervantes. The first World Book Day was celebrated in Barcelona on October 7, 1926, which marked Cervantes’ birthday. However, in 1930, the date was changed to April 23, the day Cervantes passed away. This date was chosen because it also coincides with the birthdays and deaths of several prominent authors, including William Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. UNESCO officially recognized and adopted April 23 as World Book and Copyright Day in 1995.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams: 

• UNESCO Headquarters: Paris, France;
• UNESCO Founded: 16 November 1945, London, United Kingdom;
• UNESCO Director-General, Audrey Azoulay.