Follow Gandhi’s example: UN chief

“At a time when inequality is on the rise and a fair globalization is an imperative, we also recall Gandhi’s commitment to social justice.” (File Photo By Foreign and Commonwealth Office/Wikimedia commons, CC BY 2.0)

MANILA — In celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday urged the global community to emulate his commitment to human dignity and social justice.

Gandhi is the leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule and the pioneer of peaceful resistance.

“At a time when inequality is on the rise and a fair globalization is an imperative, we also recall Gandhi’s commitment to social justice,” Guterres said.

“And in a period when the world is striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, ensure gender equality and leave no one behind, Gandhi’s commitment to human dignity can light our path,” he added.

Meanwhile, Guterres reaffirmed that “a world free of violence” as well as the achievement of a “resolution of differences through non-violent means” remain at the core of UN’s work.

October 2 is declared as the International Day of Non-Violence in tribute of Gandhi. HIs 150th birth anniversary was celebrated in numerous parts of the world, including in Manila.

In Taguig City, the Indian Embassy in the Philippines marked his birthday and the International Day of Non-Violence through a short video presentation featuring the life of the Indian leader.

The Embassy, through First Secretary M.S. Patiyal Mahendra Singh, also released the commemorative post stamps of Gandhi in the Philippines.