Human Rights And Peace Day
The Republic of Kiribati is an island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is a country with a population of over 119,000 people, and more than 50% of those people live on Tarawa Atoll. In this country, Human Rights and Peace Day is an important holiday observed in honor of Human Rights Day.
This holiday is celebrated on the Friday or Monday closest to December 11th each year to give residents an extra-long weekend. Because this day is a public holiday, it is a non-working day, and most schools, government offices, and businesses are closed.
The History Of Human Rights & Peace Day In Kiribati
On December 11th, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to prevent the repetition of atrocities committed during WWII. Human Rights Day was declared in 1950 by the UN General Assembly.
In 1979, Kiribati gained its independence from the UK and became a sovereign country. The name Kiribati was chosen for this country because, in the Austronesian language Gilbertese, the name is the plural form of the English name for the country’s main archipelago, the Gilbert Islands. The government of Kiribati decided to honor this holiday and made it a public holiday.
Observing Human Rights & Peace Day In Kiribati
This day is a public holiday in Kiribati, so most people have the day off, and government offices, schools, and businesses are closed for the day. There are also a number of activities observed on this holiday, particularly on the Tarawa atoll. These festivities can include cultural festivals, historical and art exhibitions, and competitions.
It is also a day for people to spend with loved ones, friends, and family members. During these gatherings, people usually enjoy traditional Kiribati foods that include dishes of rice and fish, as well as dishes made with coconut cream curry and seaweed.