'We must use time wisely and forever realise that the time is always ripe to do right.'
"The General Assembly,
Recognizing the long history of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s leading role in and support for Africa’s struggle for liberation and Africa’s unity, and his outstanding contribution to the creation of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic South Africa,
Recognizing also Nelson Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity, as a humanitarian, in the fields of conflict resolution, race relations, promotion and protection of human rights, reconciliation, gender equality and the rights of children and other vulnerable groups, as well as the upliftment of poor and underdeveloped communities,
Acknowledging Nelson Mandela’s contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.
Welcoming the international campaign initiated by the Nelson Mandela Foundation and related organizations to each year observe 18 July, his birthday, as Mandela Day. . .
. . .Decides to designate 18 July as Nelson Mandela International Day, to be observed each year beginning in 2010.
