For this reason, Mozambique has actively participated in initiatives by the United Nations, in particular the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Organization of African Unity, other regional organizations and individual States, in search of lasting solutions to the conflicts that still ravage some African States and other countries and regions. The concept of Culture of Peace is a set of values, attitudes and behaviours, ways of living and acting, based on respect for life, the dignity and rights of the human person, rejection of violence, including all forms of terrorism, and commitment to the principles of freedom, justice, solidarity, tolerance and understanding among all people, all groups in society and among individuals.

The culture of peace means, above all, the spirit of non-violence, of conformity with the reality that retaliation can never restore what war has destroyed. This spirit can help us to develop the sense of the value of life above and beyond the sequels of the past, to revive the memory of what was lost during war, to work hard with dignity to restore the broken spirits and the country's economic, social and cultural fabric.

Thanks to this spirit, those who were once associated with the war of destabilization can today find it possible to repent and regain the moral values of peace, reconciliation and coexistence with their fellow citizens. This approach to the country's reality has made it possible for Mozambicans, regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, tribe, culture, political or religious belief, to work together for the reconstruction and economic development of the country. This is the spirit of unity in diversity that underlies recent economic and social progress the country has achieved.

The exercise of such a noble culture entails the ability to exhibit a sense of uprightness on a daily basis, by refusing to respond to acts which reflect a lack of education and of respect for the human person that others display. It entails responding to violence and lawlessness through positive attitudes that can ensure continued strong relationships between the various segments of society, thus preventing those who are determined to instil negative values in the society from trying to change the inherently peaceful nature of the people of Mozambique. Underlying this definition is the vision of the culture of peace as a means of strengthening peace itself by ensuring the development of the material and spiritual conditions that can contribute to conflict prevention and restoration of peace once a conflict is over.

As far as the restoration of peace in a post-conflict situation is concerned, it is worth taking into account the challenge of creating conditions for reuniting families, reintegrating demobilized soldiers, and resettling former refugees and displaced populations, which will help all these groups to return to a productive life and experience once again stable social lives. Disputes over limited resources and the difficulties relating to social and economic integration of such groups can easily degenerate into violent struggles. Above all, it is essential to meet basic needs in education and health for children and provide equal opportunities for women.

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The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed the year 2000 as the International Year for the Culture of Peace, to serve as a means to engage people at all levels in a common endeavour towards a global movement for a culture of peace.