Solidarity: a fundamental pillar of the human being

International Human Solidarity Day, celebrated every 20 December, coincides with the Christmas season, a time charged with values such as generosity, family togetherness and peace. This coincidence makes it a perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of solidarity, not only as an ethical value, but as a necessary practice to build stronger communities and a fairer world.

Solidarity connects us, transcends personal boundaries and invites us to act collectively. Especially in a season when feelings of hope and empathy are at the forefront, the transformative power of this value is evident.

The meaning of solidarity at Christmas

Christmas is not only a time of celebration; it is also a call to exercise solidarity in our daily lives. This spirit is reflected in simple gestures such as:

• Sharing with those who have less.
  Participating in community activities.
  Providing emotional support to those facing hardship.

These small acts embody a commitment to care for one another, regardless of our differences.

Examples of Christmas Solidarity

All over the world, Christmas is full of inspiring examples of solidarity:

1. Food and toy drives: Many communities organise so that no family goes this holiday season without a special meal or gift for their children.
2. Supporting the homeless: Volunteers and organisations provide shelter, warm clothing and companionship to those in need.
3. Inclusive community events: Solidarity dinners and neighbourhood gatherings foster togetherness and fraternity, regardless of age or social status.

However, true solidarity goes beyond a specific season. More than a one-off gesture, it is a way of life capable of transforming societies.

Global solidarity: an essential value

Today more than ever, in a world marked by challenges such as humanitarian crises, climate change and social inequalities, solidarity is a necessity.

Global interdependence is not only evident in times of crisis, but also in solutions. Christmas, with its message of unity and peace, reminds us to look beyond our borders and act with a common purpose.

How to practice global solidarity

There are several ways to extend this value to the international level:

Support global causes: Donate to organisations that work with refugees, marginalised communities or victims of natural disasters.
Responsible consumption: Choosing products that respect the environment and workers’ rights.
Promote education and social awareness: Teach respect for diversity and commitment to social justice in our families.

The International Day of Human Solidarity reminds us that this value is a key tool to face global challenges.

Christmas and solidarity: a permanent commitment

Combining the spirit of Christmas with the message of Human Solidarity Day is a reminder that sharing what we have should not be limited to December. It is a time to renew our commitment to the values that can truly transform our communities and our world.

In the words of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
‘Solidarity is not an act of charity, but mutual aid between forces striving for the same goal.’

Let us make Christmas a starting point for practising solidarity all year round. May the acts of kindness we do at this time resonate beyond December, because solidarity is the most precious gift we can give and receive.

May this Christmas inspire in all of us a renewed commitment to solidarity, a value that not only strengthens the bonds between people, but has the power to change the world. Practising solidarity is the best way to celebrate this festive season and to build a more just and united future.

Merry Christmas!