About International Day for Tolerance
International Day for Tolerance is observed on 16 November. It marks the adoption of UNESCO's Declaration of Principles on Tolerance in 1995 and encourages respect and understanding between cultures, religions and ways of life.
On 16 November 1995, UNESCO's Member States adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, during the United Nations Year for Tolerance. The following year, the UN General Assembly invited countries to observe 16 November each year as the International Day for Tolerance.
The declaration describes tolerance not as indifference or simply putting up with others, but as respect and appreciation for the rich diversity of the world's cultures and ways of being human. It links tolerance with human rights, education and peace, and calls for action against prejudice and discrimination.
How it is marked
Schools, universities and community groups hold interfaith and intercultural events, dialogues, film screenings and student projects on diversity. UNESCO also awards the UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize for the Promotion of Tolerance and Non-Violence, named after the Indian artist, writer and diplomat Madanjeet Singh. In a country as diverse as India, it makes sense to use the day to celebrate neighbours, classmates and colleagues from different backgrounds.
What to write
Celebrate a real friendship across differences, and keep the message warm and personal.
- Your Eid biryani, my Diwali sweets, same table every year. Thank you for being my friend. Warm wishes on the International Day for Tolerance.
- We still argue about cricket and politics, and we still share lunch. Glad you're my friend.
- Thank you for teaching our class to say good morning in five languages. The new kids felt at home.
How to wish someone on International Day for Tolerance
respect, understanding and friendship across differences of faith, language and culture
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November?
It marks 16 November 1995, when UNESCO's Member States adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance. The UN General Assembly later invited countries to observe the day every year on that date.
What does tolerance mean in the UNESCO declaration?
The declaration defines tolerance as respect, acceptance and appreciation of the diversity of the world's cultures and forms of expression. It is not giving in or giving up one's convictions, and it is not indifference.
How can students mark the International Day for Tolerance?
Students can learn greetings in a classmate's language, share food and festival stories from different communities, or hold a discussion on how to respond to stereotypes and bullying.
When is International Day for Tolerance in 2026?
International Day for Tolerance 2026 falls on Monday, 16 November 2026.
What is International Day for Tolerance?
International Day for Tolerance is observed on 16 November. It marks the adoption of UNESCO's Declaration of Principles on Tolerance in 1995 and encourages respect and understanding between cultures, religions and ways of life.
Is International Day for Tolerance a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day for Tolerance varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day for Tolerance?
Focus on respect, understanding and friendship across differences of faith, language and culture. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day for Tolerance card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .