Recently the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Alexander Downer, MP, wrote to me concerning the United Nations General Assembly's declaration for this year to be the International Year for the Culture of Peace (IYCP).

The Culture of Peace "is all the values, attitudes and forms of behaviour that reflect respect for life, for human beings and their dignity and for all human rights, the rejection of violence in all its forms and commitment to the principles of freedom, justice, solidarity, tolerance and understanding among people and between groups and individuals." The UNESCO maintains that "municipalities, schools, institutions and associations in every corner of the world are putting into practice the values of a culture of peace. They are trying to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities by striving to achieve sustainable development and respect for human rights, reinforcing democratic institutions, promoting freedom of expression, improving the status of women and preserving cultural diversity and the environment."

I commend the efforts of the United Nations in this matter. However, as no grants toward this cause are available from the Commonwealth government, I request that your line agencies give appropriate attention to this effort, wherever possible, within the capacity of their ordinary operations. The Department of Foreign Affairs would appreciate your efforts in keeping them informed of any activities your agencies may be involved in under the auspices of the IYCP.

Further information on the IYCP is available on the UNESCO website (www.unesco.org), or from the International Organisations Branch of the Department of Foreign Affairs (contact officer: Ms Beverley Mercer, Director, UN and Commonwealth Section, ph: 6261 3017, fax: 6261 3424).

Bob Carr
Premier