In a significant development at the United Nations General Assembly, Bangladesh's resolution titled 'Culture of Peace' was unanimously accepted, with 112 countries co-sponsoring the resolution.

On Thursday (May 2) local time in New York, Ambassador Mohammad Abdul Muhith, the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations, raised the resolution on behalf of Bangladesh. The resolution holds particular significance this year as it marks the 25th anniversary of the declaration of the culture of peace and related programs. 

Introduced during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's first term in 1999, the Culture of Peace Declaration emphasizes eight specific areas to promote non-violence and a culture of peace, urging all nations to take corresponding action. Bangladesh has been annually presenting the 'Culture of Peace' resolution to the UN General Assembly since then.

Additionally, Bangladesh has been organizing a high-level forum at the United Nations on 'Culture of Peace' since 2012 under the leadership of the President of the General Assembly.

Ambassador Muhith underscored the enduring relevance of the culture of peace amid global challenges while presenting the proposal. The resolution requests the President of the General Assembly to convene a day-long high-level forum to properly observe and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Declaration of the Culture of Peace and its program.

Member states, international and regional organizations, civil society, the private sector, educational institutions, and other stakeholders have been invited to appropriately observe the anniversary through expanding education and public awareness.

Drawing from Bangladesh's own experience of war and destruction, Ambassador Muhith highlighted the country's inspiration to introduce the concept of a culture of peace at the United Nations.

Prior to the consideration of the resolution, a general debate on the culture of peace was held in the General Assembly, where numerous member states reiterated their commitment to the declaration and its implementation, expressing gratitude to Bangladesh for its historical leadership in establishing the concept at the UN.

The significant support garnered by Bangladesh's resolution, with 112 countries co-sponsoring it, reflects the continued backing of UN member states for the promotion of a 'Culture of Peace'.

 

 

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