Hope: A universal need in uncertain times

12th July is the International Day of Hope
No one can stop time as it is only unchangeable and provides opportunity for all. All of us are in a competitive mood, be it a student or a professional. The world is changing fast and at present due to Artificial Intelligence or AI in short things are moving very fast. Whether an individual or any society or a nation, everyone is trying to move ahead of others. There are issues affecting us and the word that gives possibilities or positivity is none other than hope.
In a world facing growing unrest, widening social divisions, and persistent economic and environmental challenges, the global community continues to seek values that unite rather than divide. Among these, hope stands out as a deeply powerful and universally resonant force. Recognizing this, the United Nations General Assembly has designated 12th July as the International Day of Hope( IDH) —a day to celebrate and promote hope as a guiding principle for individuals, communities, and nations alike.
This resolution draws upon the enduring values of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which call for peace, dignity, tolerance, and shared progress. It builds on earlier UN initiatives—such as the International Day of Conscience—by highlighting the essential role hope plays in promoting well-being, mutual respect, social stability, and sustainable development. There is no doubt that the day is a reminder that even in difficult times, hope remains a transformative force. It can bridge divides, drive progress, and uplift the human spirit. The day invites all of us to pause, reflect, and recommit to a future built not on despair or division, but on shared humanity and the unwavering belief in a better tomorrow.
When we think of any cancer patient then we know the importance of hope. A patient with hope can be cured and can become a cancer survivor but many patients lose hope . It is not only with cancer patients but anyone who is fighting any health issues should have hope. I remember one of my teacher who told us a positive quote “to the sick , where there is life , there is hope”
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as the ability to manage stress, work productively, and contribute to one’s community. Research consistently shows that higher levels of hope are associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related stress. Development programs that integrate hope-building strategies—such as coaching and mentoring—yield improved results for people living in poverty.
From the perspectives of society or community, hope supports peace building by fostering trust, encouraging dialogue between individuals, groups or communities. When there is hope there are possibilities of peace building. We should remember that hope is a powerful force for both personal recovery and collective resilience. It fosters social trust, encourages civic participation, reduces polarization, and strengthens a shared sense of identity. These qualities support inclusion, peace, and sustainable progress—core aspects of the public good and central to Sustainable Development Goals
The day reminds us that hope is not only a personal virtue—it is a collective responsibility. Together we can contribute to a sustainable future with hope and mutual cooperation. We have seen the recent wars but there is still hope by many that these will end and peace shall be restored. Only hope won’t bring solutions as we need actions but to start and to be positive we can start with hope. Let us celebrate the day by turning optimism into meaningful action by spreading the spirit of hope to inspire in communities everywhere.
Ranjan K Baruah
Guwahati
(With direct inputs from UN publication and feedback may be send to bkranjan@gmail.com)