International Day of Neutrality

International Day of Neutrality History

The International Day of Neutrality is an annual observation dedicated to promoting the principles of neutrality, peace and non-alignment. It underscores the importance of maintaining peaceful relations, irrespective of political alignments, conflicts, or differences in opinions. These notions are crucial, as they not only promote peaceful coexistence, but also foster mutual understanding and encourage respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, giving hope for a more peaceful world.

Introduced by the United Nations in 2017, the International Day of Neutrality was first championed by Turkmenistan, a country that's been officially neutral since 1995. Spanning outward from its point of origin, the observance of neutrality finds its practical impact extending to many parts of the world, including the United Kingdom. For Britons, neutrality is seen within the context of international diplomacy and conflict resolution. As a member of the United Nations, the UK upholds and promotes neutrality principles, mainly through peacekeeping missions and advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Observing the International Day of Neutrality in the UK is celebrated by promoting dialogue based on mutual respect, non-interference, and peaceful coexistence. By creating an environment conducive to productive international relations, the people of the United Kingdom can do their part to maintain peace while acknowledging everyone's point of view. As a signatory to the United Nations Charter, the UK recognises the importance of promoting and observing neutrality principles and abstaining from taking sides in disputes or conflicts outside its borders. The observance takes place on the same day worldwide, December 12th, following the United Nations General Assembly's formal recognition of the principle of neutrality.

Facts about International Day of Neutrality

• The U.N’s policy of neutrality is based on their tools of preventive diplomacy. According to the U.N, preventive diplomacy includes: early warning and prevention of conflict, mediation, good offices, fact-finding missions, negotiation, the use of special envoys, informal consultations, peacebuilding and targeted development activities.
• Neutrality is defined by the U.N as, the legal status arising from the abstention of a state from all participation in a war between other states, the maintenance of an attitude of impartiality toward the belligerents, and the recognition by the belligerents of this abstention and impartiality.
• History has its share of violating the international neutrality pact. For example, during World War II, Belgium's neutrality was violated when it was invaded by Germany.
• The UK is part of the "Five Eyes" intelligence-sharing network with the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This alliance is committed to exchanging information on matters of national security.
• The UK's closest period to neutrality was the permanent neutrality policy during the 19th century. This stance focused on maintaining a balance of power in Europe and preventing any one country from becoming dominant.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day of Neutrality

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• As of 2020, the U.N has 13 ongoing peacekeeping operations in countries like Mali and India. Learn more about the U.N’s peacekeeping strategies and how you can help maintain neutrality at What Is Peacekeeping?
• Explore a historical timeline to learn more about the U.N's record of peacekeeping. Learn more at Timeline of UN Peacekeeping.
• Take this opportunity to write letters or emails to your local MPs, representatives, or government officials. Express your support for the promotion of neutrality in international relations and encourage them to consider diplomatic approaches in conflicts.
• Explore and donate to international organizations that contribute to peacekeeping, conflict resolution, or humanitarian efforts.