Peace is not possible where there are gross inequalities of money and power, whether between workers and managers, or one nation and another or between men and women.
The General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 20th February as the World Day of Social Justice. They are inviting Member States, which includes Pakistan, to devote the day to promoting national activities in accordance with the objectives and goals of the World Summit for Social Development.
Social Development aims at social justice, solidarity, harmony and equality within and among countries.
These are big ideas. They may seem far too idealistic to reach in our country. When plagued by the state of the economy, corruption and human rights abuse on a daily basis, there seems little hope. The problems are compounded by the rise in prices, the strikes, the unavailability of CNG and other basic needs that affect us all.
So what is the solution?
Will it magically all get better, if we continue the way we are?
Or should we try to leave the country, so we totally escape the situation?
Neither option is workable for improving conditions in Pakistan.
What can we do then?
The solution is simple.
We advance social justice when we remove barriers that people face because of gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture or disability.
It starts with you not placing these barriers of social justice in your life. You can do this by not discriminating based on gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture or disability.
The next step is for you to ensure others remove these barriers to social justice. You have to speak up for what is right and protect the rights of others.
A survey of countries doing well has been done. In such countries people care about what happens in society. They speak up and take actions to ensure society maintains its standards of basic Rights for all.
Celebrate with us the World Day of Social Justice by raising awareness of Rights, helping those whose rights are abused, or by doing some community work.
We are especially keen for teachers to raise awareness in their classes on this day for social justice. We also ask parents to talk to their children about social justice.
Make the World Day of Social Justice special for people in your community. Share your news with us and become part of our network, bringing human rights to all.
“Social justice is more than an ethical imperative, it is a foundation for national stability and global prosperity.
Equal opportunity, solidarity and respect for human rights —
these are essential to unlocking the full productive potential of nations and peoples..”
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon – Message for World Day of Social Justice