Peaceful protests achieve more than military aggression: UN

The UN chief urged the international community to follow Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence

As the world grapples with 'increased sectarian violence' and conflict, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon urged the international community to follow Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence, saying the Indian leader proved that peaceful protests accomplished much more than military aggression.

"At this time of increased sectarian violence and the wanton destruction of cultural sites and heritage, it is timely to recall Gandhi's call for peace and reconciliation, and his warning that, "An eye for an eye ends up making the whole world blind"," Ban said in his message on the International Day of Non-violence, which is marked annually on Gandhi's birthday on October 2.

The UN chief said the Day commemorates the philosophy of the Mahatma, who through his example proved that 'peaceful protests could accomplish much more than military aggression'.

He added that the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, the year of Gandhi's death, owe much to his beliefs.

"We have to foster a culture of peace, built on dialogue and understanding, for living together in harmony while respecting and celebrating humanity's rich diversity," Ban said calling on the people to counter the forces of intolerance, advance global citizenship and forge human solidarity based on Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence.

Stressing that there is no greater tool than education to enhance human dignity, promote a culture of non-violence, and build lasting peace, Ban said, "Through education, we can craft new ways of living with each other and the planet. Education can also lay the foundation for developing new forms of global citizenship and solidarity that are so essential in today's world."