International Year 2010: Biodiversity; Rapprochement of Cultures; Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding

to Wednesday, 31 December 2010

The United Nations has proclaimed three special observances for 2010: International Year of Biodiversity; International Year of Rapprochement of Cultures; and International Year for Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding .

International Year of Biodiversity is a celebration of life on earth and of the value of biodiversity for our lives. The world is invited to take action in 2010 to safeguard the variety of life on earth: biodiversity.

International Year of Rapprochement of Cultures: ('Rapprochement' means an establishment or reestablishment of harmonious relations) The United Nations has recommended that events be organized on interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace during the year, including a high-level dialogue and/or informal interactive hearings with civil society.

International Year for Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding:  In efforts to highlight their contribution to society and help address the challenges they face, the United Nations is dedicating a year to young people by proclaiming 2010 the International Year of Youth.

Under the theme 'Dialogue and Mutual Understanding', the Year will aim at encouraging dialogue and understanding across generations. It will promote the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and freedoms, as well as solidarity. It will also aim to encourage young people to dedicate themselves to achieving the objectives of progress and development, including the Millennium Development Goals.