International Day of Neutrality 2023: Date, Theme and History

International Day of Neutrality is celebrated by the United Nations on 12 December every year. The International Day of Neutrality was officially proclaimed by a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution in February 2017.

• Neutrality refers to a state or individual not supporting any party.
• The theme of the International Day of Neutrality for this year 2023 has not been officially announced yet.

History of International Day of Neutrality:

• On February 2, 2017, the UNGA declared 12 December as the International Day of Neutrality.
• A resolution to celebrate the International Day of Neutrality was presented by Turkmenistan at the UNGA. It has been permanently recognised as a neutral state since December 1995.
• The resolution also highlights the 2030 Agenda for Peace and Sustainable Development.

Purpose of International Neutrality Day:

• The purpose of celebrating this day is to promote the use of preventive diplomacy and increase public awareness about the value of neutrality in international relations.

Importance of International Neutrality Day:

• The day underlines the essential role of timely implementation of preventive measures and promoting peace in the world.
• Furthermore, it spreads awareness about the benefits of the policy of neutrality, such as global peace and mutually beneficial relations between countries.
• It is one of the most effective strategies to reduce international tensions before they result in conflicts.
• This day reminds us of the importance of neutrality, which ensures global peace and security.

Important days celebrated by UNGA in December:

• 1 Dec- World AIDS Day 
• 2 Dec- International Day for the Abolition of Slavery 
• 3 Dec- International Day of Persons with Disabilities
• 4 Dec- International Day of Banks 
• 5 Dec- International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development and World Soil Day
• 7 Dec- International Civil Aviation Day 
• 9 Dec- International Anti-Corruption Day & “International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide”
• 10 Dec- Human Rights Day 
• 11 Dec- International Mountain Day
• 12 Dec- International Day of Neutrality and International Universal Health Coverage Day
• 18 Dec- International Migrants Day and Arabic Language Day
• 20 Dec- International Human Solidarity Day
• 21 Dec- World Basketball Day 
• 27 Dec- International Day of Epidemic Preparedness