“Each year on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, we pay tribute to this extraordinary man who embodied the highest aspirations of the United Nations and of the human family,” Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the celebration of July 18 First black African head of state.

True message today

Affectionately known as Madiba, his calls for solidarity and an end to racism are particularly relevant today, as social cohesion around the world is threatened with division.

With the rise of hate speech and disinformation blurring the truth, questioning science and undermining democratic institutions, societies are becoming increasingly polarized, the UN chief said.

And the current COVID-19 pandemic has not only exacerbated these evils, but has also set back years of progress in the global fight against poverty.

“As always in times of crisis, it is the marginalized and discriminated against who suffer the most, often being blamed for problems they did not cause,” Guterres said.

COVID factor

The pandemic has shown “the vital importance of human solidarity and unity”, values ​​defended and illustrated by Nelson Mandela in his lifelong fight for justice, added the UN chief.

Noting that no one is safe until all are safe, he said everyone can play their part.

Urging the world to honor Mr. Mandela’s call to action and build on his legacy, the Secretary-General said: “Let us be inspired by Madiba’s message that each of us can make a difference in the world. promotion of peace, human rights, harmony with nature and dignity for all ”.

Mandela Rules

In 2015, the General Assembly extended the scope of Nelson Mandela Day to promote humane conditions of imprisonment, raise awareness of the need to ensure that prisoners remain in society, and to value the work of prison staff as as social service of particular importance.

By resolution A / RES / 70/175, the Assembly not only adopted the revised United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, but also approved that they be known as the “Nelson Rules”. Mandela ”to honor the legacy of the late President. from South Africa, who spent 27 years in prison during his fight.