Nelson Mandela International Day 2018marks 100 years since the birth of Nelson Mandela (18 July 1918).
In recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, UN General Assembly declared 18 July as "Nelson Mandela International Day".
Nelson Mandela Prize
Nelson Mandela Prize was awarded for the first time in 2015
The Prize aims to recognize the achievements of those who dedicated their lives to the service of humanity as guided by the purposes and principles of the UN, while honouring and paying homage to Mandela’s extraordinary life and legacy of reconciliation, political transition and social transformation.
Once every 5 years, commencing in 2015, an honorary award will be presented as a tribute to the outstanding achievements and contributions of 2 laureate (one female and one male).
2015 Laureates
Helena Ndume, Namibia
E. Mr. Jorge Fernando Branco Sampaio, Portugal
Nelson Mandela Rules
The UN General Assembly extend the scope of Nelson Mandela International Day to be also utilized in order to,
Promote humane conditions of imprisonment
Raise awareness about prisoners being a continuous part of society
Value the work of prison staff as a social service of particular importance.
The General Assembly resolution envisages United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners and approved that they should be known as the "Nelson Mandela Rules" in honour of the legacy of the late President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela.