20251220 International Human Solidarity Day
Toward 2026: The Imperative and Urgency of Global Human Solidarity
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze
Zhang-men-ren of Tai Ji Men
President of the Federation of World Peace and Love
Vice President of the Association of World Citizens,
NGO in Consultative Status with ECOSOC and Associated with the UN DPI
December 20, 2025
Distinguished guests, dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, good day to you all.
In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly designated 20 December of each year as International Human Solidarity Day, with the hope of inspiring the global community to take deeper and more proactive action in recognition that solidarity is what determines our shared future. This observance also serves as a reminder to governments of their responsibility to honor commitments made under international agreements; urge greater understanding and cooperation among nations, peoples, and cultures; and advance sustainable social development in order to address global challenges such as poverty, discrimination, inequality, and social exclusion. International Human Solidarity Day further reminds the global community that a peaceful world requires recognition of the necessity of seeking common ground while respecting differences. Through mutual appreciation, respect, and inclusion, the values of solidarity and cooperation can be integrated into everyday life.
As we reflect on the world in 2025, geopolitical conflicts remain unresolved, natural and human-made disasters continue to unfold, and political and economic tensions persist. The future of global sustainability rests in the hands of all humanity. Looking ahead, global solidarity is the only path toward hope. No single nation can, on its own, reverse the rapidly evolving global challenges we face. Only by strengthening international cooperation and mutual assistance, and by maximizing our collective capacity to confront shared challenges, can we move toward sustainable development and lasting progress. I therefore earnestly call upon international organizations and governments to work together to promote cultural exchange, deepen understanding and cooperation among peoples, bring an end to hatred and discrimination, and build harmonious societies for the benefit of all. When governments govern with transparency, self-discipline, and integrity, they inspire individuals to act according to conscience and mutual trust. In this way, a virtuous cycle of trust can naturally take root within society, enabling us to unite in creating a better living environment for all.
Often, adversity leaves us feeling discouraged; yet even a small measure of hope can ignite the spark for action. Such hope arises from trust in the conscience and potential of humanity, and from confidence in the capacity of every individual and community to effect change. Conscience and hope are the driving forces that propel us forward, enabling us to remain steadfast in the face of challenges and to persevere in our pursuit of a better future.
International Human Solidarity Day is a call to action, reminding us that every individual can, through their own efforts, contribute to strengthening solidarity across the world. Conscience guides each of our actions and inspires us to aspire to higher ideals. It enables us to discern right from wrong, truth from falsehood, and good from evil; when conscience serves as our foundation, the choices we make in life naturally move toward justice and the common good. The power of hope is the driving force of change. Every person possesses the potential to realize their aspirations, and it is the power of hope that sustains us in pursuing our goals, even in times of adversity. When conscience and the power of hope come together, they generate an inner strength that empowers individuals to become active agents of positive change.
International Human Solidarity Day offers us an opportunity for both reflection and action. As we move toward 2026, we must act without delay. I have promoted the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity, with the aspiration of building a global culture of mutual trust and cooperation founded upon integrity. To date, individuals from 149 countries have responded, collectively putting the values of honesty and conscience into action. Only through working together can we effectively address the challenges we face today, advance sustainable development, strive for the common well-being of humanity, and create a better world for future generations.
May conscience and the power of hope guide humanity.
May solidarity and mutual support unite us.
May integrity be the foundation of our actions.
May human rights stand above all.
May love and peace prevail.
May we build a sustainable future for all.