Nelson Mandela International Day is being observed globally today. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela and honours his lifelong contribution to humanity. The theme for this year, “It’s in our hands,” highlights the role of individuals and communities in combating poverty and inequality.
In December 2015, the United Nations General Assembly decided to broaden the scope of Nelson Mandela International Day to promote humane conditions of imprisonment, raise awareness that prisoners remain a part of society, and recognise the work of prison staff as an important social service.
