Given the primary tools of education, dialogue and communication skills and forums, encouragement from leaders of public opinion, supportive legislation and the will to coexist as neighbours at peace with one another, the challenges need not prove insurmountable. This approach takes advantage of the synergy and momentum generated during the Year, to propel the campaign into 1996 and beyond. As modern societies become increasingly diverse and interdependent, tolerance becomes ever more essential for the survival and well-being of both individuals and the communities in which they live. Tolerance involves both behaviours that can be regulated and attitudes that cannot, both action by States in the domain of human rights and action by individuals as moral agents in a pluralistic environment. The positive and active elucidation of the meaning of tolerance will be a part of follow-up activities.
Tolerance is facilitated through direct contacts, communication and education.
In place of fear and rejection of the unknown, tolerance is mutual understanding through active interest in the traditions and beliefs of others and the sharing of common ideas. The overall objective of the programme is therefore to educate, inform and empower individuals to assume the responsibilities of dialogue, mutual respect, toleration and non-violence, and to encourage pluralism and tolerance in the policies of Member States. In all, emphasis will be placed on constructing practical and concrete tools for problem-solving at the international, regional, national and local levels through a multifaceted and sustained campaign involving the participation of diverse institutions and societies. This fundamental work will be implemented by the principal actors of international society, including Member States, the United Nations system, National Commissions, both universal and regional intergovernmental organizations, as well as non-governmental organizations, local communities and municipalities, and other actors in the public and private spheres. Education and networking 10.