UN General Assembly Unanimously Passes Bangladesh’s Resolution on the Culture of Peace

UN General Assembly Unanimously Passes Bangladesh’s Resolution on the Culture of Peace

In a unanimous decision, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has embraced the Culture of Peace resolution, championed by Bangladesh. The endorsement came during a meeting at the UNGA, with Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UN in New York, introducing the resolution on Wednesday.

An Advocate for Peace

Ambassador Muhith, during his introduction, accentuated the critical role and the continued relevance of a culture of peace in today’s global landscape, laden with intricate challenges and limitless opportunities. In a world increasingly marred by confrontations and violence, he emphasized the dire need for fostering a culture of peace, highlighting dialogue, and rapprochement as essential tools to navigate such an environment.

“Indeed, it is more urgent today than ever to promote a culture of peace; to prioritize dialogue and rapprochement over violence and confrontation,” asserted Ambassador Muhith.

Origins of the Resolution

The resolution’s roots can be traced back to September 13, 1999, during the initial tenure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Since its first inception, Bangladesh has played a pivotal role each year, facilitating this resolution at the UNGA and annually hosting a High-level Forum on the Culture of Peace. The most recent forum held on September 6, 2022, honed in on the transformative role that the culture of peace can play in promoting justice, equality, and inclusivity, essential elements for furthering peacebuilding efforts.

Focus of the Current Resolution

The resolution adopted this year focuses on a collective approach towards tackling global risks and challenges, with the United Nations at the forefront. It calls for fortifying preventive diplomacy and fostering dialogue and healthy debates at all tiers of governance and society.

The resolution further accentuates the indispensable role of women in preventing and resolving conflicts. It emphasizes the necessity for women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in such processes.

Moreover, the resolution recognizes the need to tackle the root causes of violence and conflict while encouraging the promotion of a culture of peace amidst the ongoing digital transformation era.

Bangladesh’s permanent representative expressed that the resolution’s prominence has steadily grown over time, making its mark in all significant UN dialogues. “In the rapidly changing global situation, it has proved to be a useful means to complement UN Charter obligations of maintaining peace in the world,” he added.

Global Endorsement

This year, the resolution secured the co-sponsorship of over 100 countries, exemplifying widespread approval from a diverse representation of UN Member States. This broad endorsement, along with Bangladesh’s persistent facilitation of the resolution year after year, affirms the international community’s deep trust in the country as a staunch advocate for global peace.

The unanimous adoption of the Culture of Peace resolution demonstrates the world’s collective commitment to fostering a peaceful global environment. This achievement reflects the dedicated and commendable efforts of Bangladesh in promoting a culture of peace and harmony across the globe.