Nonviolent action is not an attempt to avoid or ignore conflict.

'Nonviolent action is a technique by which people who reject passivity and submission, and who see struggle as essential, can wage their conflict without violence. Professor Gene Sharp, a leading scholar on non-violent resistance, uses the following definition in his publication, The Politics of Nonviolent Action: Often described as 'the politics of ordinary people', this form of social struggle has been adopted by mass populations all over the world in campaigns for social justice. The principle of non-violence - also known as non-violent resistance - rejects the use of physical violence in order to achieve social or political change. He believed that Indians must not use violence or hatred in their fight for freedom from colonialism. The theory behind his actions, which included encouraging massive civil disobedience to British law as with the historic Salt March of 1930, was that 'just means lead to just ends' that is, it is irrational to try to use violence to achieve a peaceful society. Throughout his life, Gandhi remained committed to his belief in non-violence even under oppressive conditions and in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Gandhi, who helped lead India to independence, has been the inspiration for non-violent movements for civil rights and social change across the world. Read more Background The life and leadership of Mahatma Gandhi It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man'.

Quoting the late leader’s own words, he said: 'Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. Anand Sharma, said that the wide and diverse sponsorship of the resolution was a reflection of the universal respect for Mahatma Gandhi and of the enduring relevance of his philosophy. Introducing the resolution in the General Assembly on behalf of 140 co-sponsors, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. The resolution reaffirms 'the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence' and the desire 'to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence'. The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.Īccording to General Assembly resolution A/RES/61/271 of 15 June 2007, which established the commemoration, the International Day is an occasion to 'disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness'.

Mahatma gandhi said