The International Day of Neutrality, observed annually on December 12, aims to raise awareness about the significance of neutrality in intergovernmental relations and its role in fostering global peace and security.
The day emphasizes the connection between peacekeeping efforts and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, acknowledging how national neutrality policies can contribute to global peace, security, and friendly international relations.
Definition of Neutrality
As defined by the United Nations, neutrality is the legal status resulting from a country’s abstention from participating in conflict or war between other states, maintaining an impartial stance toward the involved parties.
Historical Background
Turkmenistan, a Central Asian nation recognized as a permanent neutral state by the UN since December 1995, proposed the idea of the International Day of Neutrality. The United Nations General Assembly approved this proposal on February 2, 2017, officially proclaiming December 12 as the International Day of Neutrality.
Significance of International Day of Neutrality
Strengthening International Peace and Security:
Neutrality plays a crucial role in fortifying global peace and security, fostering mutually beneficial relationships among nations.
Upholding Principles Amidst Crises:
In times of political tension and escalating crises, the day holds great importance in upholding principles such as sovereignty, sovereign equality of states, territorial integrity, self-determination, and non-intervention in internal affairs.
Promoting Peaceful Conflict Resolution:
The International Day of Neutrality defends and encourages the peaceful settlement of international disputes, ensuring that international peace and security remain intact.
Humanitarian Perspective:
This day serves as a poignant reminder of the humanitarian importance of neutrality during armed conflicts. NGOs and humanitarian organizations can effectively care for casualties only through the application of neutrality.
Striving for a World Without Conflict:
The day encourages individuals to strive for peace collaboratively, emphasizing the collective effort needed to achieve a world without conflict.
In summary, the International Day of Neutrality underscores the vital role neutrality plays in maintaining peace, fostering international cooperation, and addressing conflicts through peaceful means.
