A force mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction
Today, October 2, is the International Day of Non-Violence, enshrined by the United Nations and marked around the world.
In 2007, at the initiative of India, 140 countries including Thailand agreed that today, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, should be commemorated by spreading the message of non-violence. This is done every year worldwide in schools and universities as well as in public awareness campaigns.
Gandhi, who led India peacefully to independence, said:
“Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.
“Non-violence is the first article of my faith. It is also the last article of my creed.”
These words have a unique resonance today, in a global era characterised by ecological crisis, cultural rifts and political confusion.
Prof Ioan Voicu
Bangkok
