On 20 December, the International Human Solidarity Day (IHSD) will be celebrated under the theme “Moving together as one: Solidarity as the foundation of the UN development agenda beyond 2015”. In the lead up to this day, UN DESA’s Division for Social Policy and Development (DSPD) has kicked off a campaign to showcase the close relation between solidarity and social development.

“The United Nations believes that solidarity with people affected by poverty and an absence of human rights is vital. Based on equality, inclusion and social justice, solidarity implies a mutual obligation across the global community,” says UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his message for the day.

With the aim to highlight the importance of the international community moving together as one, the campaign launched by DSPD, asks the online community to submit photos via social media showcasing  ”what solidarity means to you,” tagging messages with the hashtags #2getherwith and #SolidarityDay, followed by a description of the cause supported. The best pictures will be presented via DSPD’s social media channels and on the website of the United Nations Social Development Network administered by DSPD.

Click here to access more information on how to join the campaign. Online participants can also fill out and print a sample banner to use as part of their campaign contribution.

Although the concept of solidarity has defined the work of the United Nations since its inception 70 years ago, the International Human Solidarity Day was first celebrated in December 2006. The year before, the General Assembly had proclaimed 20 December as International Human Solidarity Day, convinced that the promotion of the culture of solidarity and the spirit of sharing was important for combating poverty.

This year’s event takes place as the international community is in the midst of preparing for a new sustainable development agenda to succeed the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), putting people and the planet at the centre. “I call for a renewed commitment to collective action,” encourages Ban Ki-moon. “Let us act together as one to end poverty, achieve shared prosperity and peace, protect the planet and foster a life of dignity for all.”