Vesak is a highly significant celebration observed worldwide to commemorate the three feasts of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
Buddha’s philosophy is renowned for its insightful explanations of the root cause of human suffering and the path to its cessation. This philosophy is widely recognised as a metaphysical doctrine that transcends the limits of human experience.
What sets Buddha’s philosophy apart is that it provides vivid illustrations and examples that help us understand the existence of an afterlife and the birth and death of human beings.
Philosophy is a profound and comprehensive study of the nature of reality. It offers a unique perspective on the human experience.
International Vesak Day
This year, the Vesak full moon day will mark the 25th anniversary of the United Nations declaration of the International Vesak Day With this milestone in mind, UNESCO has officially celebrated this occasion.
This decision is unique and significant, as it aims to promote global peace, intercultural dialogue, and cultural preservation, which aligns with UNESCO’s core principles.
It is worth noting that the organisation’s Executive Board passed this historic resolution during its 219th session, signifying the importance of this moment for cultural and international relations.
Lakshman Kadiragamer
The International Day of Vesak is a significant festival celebrated for thousands of years by Buddhists worldwide.
In 1999, Sri Lanka’s former foreign minister, Mr Lakshman Kadiragamer, proposed a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly that led to the recognition of the Vesak festival internationally.
This historic moment laid the foundation for the global recognition of this important festival.
Now, after 25 years of this recognition, an interregional group of 38 member countries, including 16 members of the Executive Board of UNESCO, has passed a resolution to celebrate the International Day of Vesak on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
This landmark decision is a testament to the significance of the Vesak festival and its role in promoting peace, harmony, and goodwill amongst people of all nations.
The International Day of Vesak is a time of reflexion, meditation, and celebration of the teachings of Buddha.
It is a day for people to unite and renew their commitment to compassion, non-violence, and understanding.
This festival has become a symbol of hope and unity for millions worldwide, and its recognition by the global community is a testament to its enduring importance.
UNESCO decisions related to Vesak
Commencing 2024, a proposal has been made to mandate the UNESCO Director-General to deliver an annual message in honour of International Vesak Day, a significant occasion celebrated worldwide by Buddhists.
Moreover, a suggestion has been made to organise an appropriate program to mark the annual Vesak celebration in consultation with the relevant Permanent Representative Board to ensure a fitting and authentic commemoration.
Importance of Decision
Miss Manisha Gunasekara, the current Ambassador of Sri Lanka to France and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to UNESCO, expressed her thoughts on celebrating International Vesak Day, a significant event for Buddhists worldwide.
She emphasised that the celebration is of profound universal importance to humanity, as it brings together people and communities from different countries and cultural traditions to celebrate the true essence of Vesak.
Miss Gunasekara further added that the teachings and philosophy of the Buddha align with UNESCO’s leading programs and strategic objectives.
She believes that fostering education, eliminating discrimination, and promoting intellectual and moral cooperation are the basic values of Buddhism, making this decision more appropriate for UNESCO’s work.
Meanwhile, India’s Permanent Representative and Ambassador to UNESCO, Vishal Sharma, also expressed his support for the decision on Vesak Day.
He stated that the Fourfold Truth, which has guided countless generations since the time of Shakyamuni Buddha, is an important matter that deserves recognition.
Sharma acknowledged Sri Lanka’s leading role in initiating and supporting this important decision.
Countries that supported the adoption of the resolution
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay has been recognised for her exceptional leadership skills in bringing together numerous individuals, including Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Director-General for Social and Anthropological Sciences for UNESCO’s Major Programs III and IV, and Ernesto Ottone, Assistant Director-General for Culture.
This remarkable proposal was supported by 38 member countries, demonstrating the global community’s commitment to the cause.
The countries that provided assistance include Algeria, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Chile, China, Colombia, Djibouti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Liberia, Malaysia, Mauritania, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palau, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Romania, Seychelles, South Africa, Sri Lanka, State of Palestine, Suriname, Syria, Thailand, Tunisia, and Vietnam.
Their support has been instrumental in advancing this initiative towards a brighter future.
