“Different, Yet the Same”: South Asian Youth Mark International Day for Tolerance Through Global Dialogue
On November 15 2025, youth leaders and peace practitioners from four South Asian countries came together online to mark the International Day for Tolerance, designated by the United Nations to promote harmony beyond differences of race, religion, and culture.
The virtual event brought together 65 participants from India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and the Maldives, including leaders of partner organizations affiliated with IPYG and teachers currently participating in peace education programs supported by HWPL.
Under the theme “Different, Yet the Same,” the gathering emphasized that tolerance is not merely an abstract value, but a practice built through cooperation, understanding, and shared action across borders.
Reflecting on Tolerance as a Foundation for Peace
International Day for Tolerance was established by the United Nations to encourage respect and coexistence among diverse communities. During the event, participants reflected on how working together for peace—despite national, cultural, or religious differences—is itself a practical expression of tolerance.
Speakers highlighted that peacebuilding efforts across countries serve as a first step toward reducing prejudice and fostering mutual trust. The session reinforced the idea that tolerance grows when people actively engage with one another, rather than remaining divided by difference.
Sharing Youth-Led Peace Activities Across Countries
Participants viewed video messages from key figures and members of the Youth Peacebuilding Working Group (YEPW), who shared reflections on their peace activities throughout the year. The program also introduced the “Eco 10 Minutes” initiative, part of the Legislate Peace (LP) program carried out in participating countries.
In addition, attendees watched highlights from the 11th Anniversary of the HWPL 9.18 World Peace Summit, held in Korea, connecting local youth initiatives with global peace efforts.
IPYG emphasized that peace activities must continue consistently in order to nurture cultures of harmony and tolerance, drawing on experiences accumulated through ongoing youth engagement.
Open Dialogue on Discrimination and Responsibility
An open discussion session allowed participants to share personal experiences related to discrimination, the importance of the rule of law, mutual respect, and future cooperation.
One youth coordinator spoke candidly about facing unfair treatment due to discrimination and stressed that young people carry a significant responsibility in shaping peaceful societies. He noted that partnering with IPYG was among the most meaningful decisions he had made, as it allowed him to transform personal challenges into constructive peace action.
The session concluded with plans to provide further orientation and support for the regular operation of YEPW, strengthening youth networks across countries.
Expanding Youth-Led Peace Partnerships
The Youth Peacebuilding Working Group (YEPW) serves as a platform for national youth networks to expand peace activities, including peace walks, peace letter campaigns, youth peace talks, and community volunteer projects. Through these initiatives, young people are encouraged to take active roles in peacebuilding within their societies.
This International Day for Tolerance event strengthened awareness of tolerance as both a mindset and a practice, expanded global partnerships, and highlighted the growing potential of youth-led peace projects across South Asia.
As organizers noted, tolerance reduces conflict and builds trust—making it an essential foundation for sustainable peace. HWPL and IPYG plan to continue collaborating with partners in diverse countries to further embed a culture of peace through youth leadership and international cooperation.
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