November 16 marks the International Day for Tolerance, established by the United Nations in Resolution 51/95 of 1996, with the aim of promoting a culture of dialogue, respect for diversity, and the prevention of all forms of violence and discrimination. This day serves as a global reminder of the importance of upholding human dignity, fostering mutual understanding among societies, and consolidating the values of peaceful coexistence.
In this context, the Syrian Future Movement emphasizes that the significance of this day takes on an exceptional dimension in the Syrian situation, as the country undergoes a delicate transitional phase that necessitates a reformulation of the social contract, addressing the consequences of societal division, and strengthening trust between citizens and institutions.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that tolerance is a structural element in building a modern state, not merely a moral slogan. It maintains that implementing the principles of tolerance in Syria must be an integral part of the institutional framework of the transitional phase, starting with the development of legal systems and extending to the restructuring of the educational and media sectors. Tolerance is a cornerstone for strengthening stability and rebuilding societal legitimacy.
The Syrian Future Movement emphasizes the necessity of linking the values of tolerance to transitional justice programs. Any successful national transitional justice process requires a general climate that rejects exclusion and revenge, and is based on objective standards that guarantee the rights of victims and achieve justice without compromising the security of society.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that true tolerance does not mean overlooking violations, but rather adopting legal and societal mechanisms that prevent their recurrence and rebuild trust.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms the need for a pivotal role for civil society and the media in shaping coexistence. It stresses the importance of empowering Syrian civil society to be an active participant in designing and implementing community reconciliation programs. It also emphasizes the necessity of developing a professional and independent media that contributes to combating hate speech, protecting diversity, and strengthening a unifying national identity.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that tolerance is a strategic necessity for building the future of Syria, and that commemorating this International Day should be translated into practical action within public policies through:
- Develop educational programs that promote respect for cultural and religious diversity.
- Support local dialogue initiatives in cities and towns.
- Enhance the participation of youth and women in peacebuilding negotiations.
- Integrate the values of tolerance into governance plans and decentralized services.
Therefore, the Syrian Future Movement recommends the following:
- Launching a national framework for tolerance and community reconciliation based on the principles of transitional justice, serving as a reference for decision-makers.
- Strengthening partnerships with the United Nations and international institutions to benefit from global expertise in building civil peace and restoring social cohesion.
- Supporting educational and cultural institutions to play a crucial role in countering extremism and building a culture of citizenship.
- Integrating the values of tolerance into social reconstruction programs as a prerequisite for establishing a stable environment that encourages development and growth.
- Empowering local civil society organizations to ensure their participation in monitoring public policies and promoting dialogue among community groups.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms that the International Day for Tolerance is a global call to adopt a new approach to managing our differences, one that lays the foundation for a safe, cohesive, and just Syrian society. The Movement reiterates its commitment to working towards strengthening the values of tolerance, pluralism, and mutual respect, considering them the cornerstone of building a modern Syria—a state of citizenship, the rule of law, and equal opportunities for all.
