Category DAYS TO REMEMBER

          Does science contribute to world peace? Science has often been criticized for inventing devices that wreaked havoc in the world. From bombs and guns to nuclear weapons of mass destruction, some scientific inventions have caused the death of millions of people.

          Today, the scientific community is striving hard to direct scientific Pursuits for the peace and Prosperity of the world. Therefore, the International Week of Science and Peace, celebrated from November 6 to 12, poses some very relevant questions.

          Science should be more responsible today. Scientists should be able to stand by the high moral standards in order that science may fuel constructive and proactive developments in society. Education across the globe should be directed at a scientific way of thinking rather than mere learning pure sciences. The International Week of Science encourages greater academic exchanges of universal importance while also generating greater awareness of the relationship of science and peace among the public.

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        The world is witnessing an arms race among nations today. Governments are spending large amounts from the exchequer to buy newer and better weaponry.

        Accumulation of weapons is often based on the misconception that conflicts can be resolved by showing off one’s weaponry. However, war seldom brings peace. Disarmament Week, observed from October 24 to 30, is an attempt to raise awareness regarding the importance of systematic reduction of arms and lead world powers to better sense.

        The annual observance of the week starts on the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Worldwide awareness is invited to the danger of the arms race during this week. It is also an opportunity to propagate the need for ending accumulation of weapons and increase public understanding of the urgent tasks of disarmament.

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        Lying on his back and gazing at the stars after a hard day’s labour, ancient Man may have dreamt of flying past the sky, and touching the moon one day. The dream materialized only quite recently when the Soviet Union and the US competed to outstrip each other in conquering Space and beyond. When others pitched in and ventured into more space explorations, we started learning more about our planet, the solar system, the galaxy, the vast universe and Man’s position in the universe. The World Space Week from October 4 to 10 celebrates the role of Space in bringing the world closer together.

         The World Space Week starts on the anniversary of the launching of Sputnik I, the first artificial satellite, on October 4, 1957. The week presents the biggest Space event in the world. The purpose of the celebrations is to inspire students to turn to Space research and educate the public about Space activities.

         Humanity has reached beyond the sky. Every step humans take now should not only advance them in knowledge, but also bring them closer to each other.

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          When India gained independence in 1947, the nation became a sovereign state that is ruled by its own people. However, many territories in other parts of world are still under the rule of colonial countries. Therefore, the International Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories observed between May 25 and 31, has great relevance.                         Colonialism was tragic event, which saw many countries and territories being invaded or systematically subjugated and plundered of their wealth. In 1946, the UN had prepared a list of territories that were not self-governing. Most of these territories freed themselves through the process of decolonization. However, some of them had remained dependent. The UN is urging the administering countries to take effective measures to safeguard and guarantee the inalienable rights of the peoples of the Non-Self- Governing Territories to their natural resources, including land. It is important that these territories be given the power to maintain control over the future development of those resources. The UN is also making requests to take all necessary steps to protect the property rights of the peoples of those territories.

        The Week of Solidarity is aimed at enabling the people of these territories to stand up for their own rights and fight against all oppressing powers.

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         Racism segregates Man from Man. It is an absurd belief in the superiority of some people over others because of their racial origin and skin colour. Racism was rampant in the past and nations are trying their best to eradicate this evil practice today. From March 21 to 27, the UN observes the Week of Solidarity with the People Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination. The week starts with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21.

         While racism is a system of power that provides privilege to the dominant white racial group while oppressing darker-skinned people, racial discrimination is the individual unfair treatment of a person or group of people on the basis of race. State interventions and laws can control racial discrimination, to a certain extent. However, racism can be wiped out only through awareness and understanding. There should be concerted effort from leaders of the nations to ordinary citizens, in order to bridge the gap.

          The Week of Solidarity is an opportunity to remind each of us that all are equal and we have no right to hold any prejudice against anyone because of their colour, birth, race and ethnicity.

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           Do you know there are roughly 4,200 religions in the world? This means that there is so much diversity in terms of people’s religious beliefs and opinions. Several instances of intolerance towards other faiths have occurred, and disrupted peace across the world. Religious fanaticism and insularity are on the increase and there is a great need among men to respect others’ perspectives and opinions. The World Interfaith Harmony Week, which advocates Understanding and tolerance of others’ faith, is celebrated in the first week of February.

          Most of the times, disrespect and intolerance start from ignorance. The UN General Assembly points out that mutual understanding and inter-religious dialogue are essential for establishing a culture of peace among people. Dialogue can foster mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation.

         Religion is more of an individual’s personal affair. We all can contribute to peace in society by respecting others’ faith and acknowledging their right to have their opinions.

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