Meet Sanaka Samarasinha: A Champion for Global Unity and Sustainable Development

Michigan, US, 19th June 2024, ZEX PR WIRE, Sanaka Samarasinha, a distinguished leader in international diplomacy and development, has become a beacon of hope and action in the global effort to promote peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding, and sustainable development. With over 25 years of experience serving within the United Nations across 40 countries, Samarasinha’s dedication to these values is unwavering. His recent efforts have highlighted the crucial role of journalism, environmental sustainability, and global unity.

Advocating for Global Unity As A Pillar To Sustainable Development

On May 16, the world celebrated the International Day of Living Together in Peace, which fosters harmony and solidarity among diverse communities. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, this day emphasizes the importance of proactive and participatory approaches to dialogue and mutual understanding. Samarasinha, reflecting on the day’s significance, stated, “Living together in peace means more than the absence of conflict; it requires a proactive and participatory approach to dialogue and mutual understanding. Our differences should be celebrated, and our shared humanity must guide us towards unity.”

Promoting Reconciliation and Sustainable Development

Samarasinha emphasized that the International Day of Living Together in Peace serves as a call to action for countries to promote reconciliation and sustainable development. This involves working with communities, faith leaders, and other relevant actors through reconciliatory measures and acts of service. This day aims to foster a culture of peace by encouraging forgiveness and compassion.

Reflecting on the history of the United Nations, Samarasinha noted that the UN was established to save future generations from the scourge of war. He highlighted key initiatives such as the “International Year for a Culture of Peace” and the “International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for Children of the World,” universal mandates for promoting peace and non-violence.

Highlighting the Role of Journalism in Environmental Crisis Management

On World Press Freedom Day, May 3, 2024, Samarasinha highlighted the critical role of journalists in fostering democratic societies and sustainable development, especially in climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. He stated, “Journalists face significant challenges in seeking and disseminating information on critical contemporary issues. Accurate, timely, and comprehensive reporting is essential to combat dis- and misinformation, which undermines international efforts to address these crises.”

Samarasinha stressed the importance of a comprehensive strategy that includes protecting journalists, ensuring freedom of expression, promoting media plurality, and enhancing digital platform governance. He emphasized that the theme “A Press for the Planet” is crucial in the current environmental crisis.

Sanaka Samarasinha’s Leadership in Sustainable Development

Samarasinha’s leadership in the Pacific and Belarus has driven substantial progress in sustainable development, good governance, and human rights. As the UN Resident Coordinator in the Pacific (2018-2023), he led 31 UN agencies with an annual budget of $250 million, focusing on sustainable development and resilience-building. His efforts during natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted his ability to mobilize resources and foster regional cooperation.

In Belarus, Samarasinha facilitated dialogues on democratic governance and human rights, implementing innovative initiatives like the #UN70BelarusExpress, which empowered local communities to embrace the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and foster inclusive development.

Championing Sustainable Tuna Fishing

Samarasinha has also been a passionate advocate for sustainable tuna fishing. Highlighting the importance of tuna as a dietary staple and economic resource, he recently called for immediate action to ensure the long-term sustainability of tuna stocks. He praised initiatives like the FAO’s Common Oceans Tuna project, which aims to ensure sustainable fishing practices by 2027.

Spirituality And Sustainable Living

Samarasinha also believes spirituality can help in driving sustainable development and peaceful co-existence. During Vesak, a day commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha, Samarasinha reflected on the Buddha’s teachings of tolerance, compassion, and service. He noted that these values are more relevant than ever in today’s world, which is marked by complex global challenges. “The spirit of Vesak reminds us that our shared humanity and commitment to peace are the foundations upon which we can build a better future,” he said.

A Call to Action

Sanaka Samarasinha urges the international community to take collective action to promote peace, sustainability, and unity. We can build a more peaceful and harmonious world by supporting initiatives that foster reconciliation, sustainable development, and accurate reporting on critical issues. His extensive experience and leadership within the United Nations position him as a formidable advocate for these values, inspiring individuals, communities, and nations to embrace the principles of reconciliation, compassion, and solidarity.