SRHR Needs Tolerance, The World Needs Both
The moment we hear the word ‘tolerance’, multiple thoughts follow: Are we talking about racial tolerance? Are we referring to religious tolerance? Or is it just about tolerating my colleague who makes loud noises during lunch? In 1996, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 51/95 proclaiming 16 November as International Day for Tolerance.
As a whole, tolerance is neither indulgence nor indifference. It is respect and appreciation of the rich variety of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. Tolerance delegates its attention towards the universality of human rights as much as recognising the fundamental freedoms of others. In a world where diversity splits us in so many ways possible, only tolerance can ensure the survival of so many communities in every region of the globe.
Let’s view this with respect to the official message from the former Secretary-General of the UN, Ban Ki-moon, who went on to say, ’The call to practice tolerance was written into the identity of the United Nations 70 years ago. Today, in a world buffeted by turbulence and change, the Charter’s summons remains a vital touchstone for our work.’
The UN Charter is indeed the foundational document of the United Nations. If we look at Article 1, the four sub-clauses collectively focus on the UN’s efforts to be a centre for harmonising the actions of nations in the attainment of International Peace and Security, friendly relations among member states and international cooperation.
However, the depressing reality is that the founding member states are the ones misinterpreting and using the Charter as an excuse to violate international laws and human rights. A common example would be Article 51 (the right of self-defence of a nation) of the Charter being misinterpreted and used to justify waging war against each other.
Tolerance regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights is not exactly flourishing as well, especially in culturally sensitive contexts. According to the WHO, about 45% of all abortions worldwide are unsafe, contributing significantly to maternal deaths. The situation of Child Marriage around the world is a staggering example of how unstable the tolerance regarding SRHR is, as around 640 million girls and women alive today are married before their 18th birthday.
Sexual and reproductive health and rights go far beyond physical health. They encompass the fundamental ability to make informed choices about one’s own body and life. They guarantee access to accurate information, comprehensive health services, and the freedom to decide if, when, and how to have children. They protect individuals from violence, coercion, and discrimination, and uphold the dignity and autonomy of every person.
But none of this can truly thrive without tolerance. A society that respects diversity, listens without judgment, and values human rights creates the space for SRHR to flourish. When tolerance is absent, stigma, discrimination, and harmful practices persist, limiting access to essential services and undermining the very freedoms SRHR seeks to guarantee. True sexual and reproductive rights can only exist in a world that embraces understanding, equality, and respect for all.
On this day, we can pause to reflect and truly listen. We can confront stigma and take small but meaningful steps to create a society where no one is left behind. Share-Net Bangladesh extends warm wishes on the International Day for Tolerance 2025 and reaffirms its commitment to the belief that a tolerant world is a healthier, fairer world for all.
Sources:
1. UNESCO’s website
2. UN’s website
3. WHO’s website