When Stromae released Formidable, its impact extended far beyond the realm of music. The poignant lyrics and striking music video became a mirror reflecting today’s societal behavior. In the video, Stromae stumbles through the streets of Brussels, appearing disoriented and heartbroken. While some passersby stop to film or stare, few offer help. It’s a raw portrayal of disconnection, judgment, and the vulnerability that often goes unnoticed.
This powerful depiction of human behavior forces us to reflect: Are we truly paying attention to the struggles of others? It’s a question at the heart of International Human Solidarity Day, celebrated every December 20th. Established by the United Nations in 2005, this day emphasizes unity in addressing global challenges. It serves as a reminder that building a fairer world requires collective action rooted in empathy, understanding, and mutual support.
International Human Solidarity Day highlights the importance of working together to combat issues like poverty, inequality, and climate change. These problems transcend borders and require global cooperation. At the center of this effort are the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a roadmap adopted in 2015 to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
The SDGs address pressing challenges like hunger, education, gender equality, and environmental conservation. However, achieving these ambitious goals depends on collective action and the involvement of diverse stakeholders. Governments play a crucial role, but they cannot succeed alone. Civil society, private enterprises, and individual citizens must all contribute to driving meaningful change.
Worldwide organizations are essential in turning the vision of the SDGs into reality. The United Nations, through agencies like the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and UNICEF, provides funding, expertise, and policy support to help countries tackle their most urgent challenges. These organizations act as mediators, ensuring that resources are distributed to regions where they are most needed.
Similarly, institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) play a critical role by funding large-scale projects aimed at eradicating poverty, improving infrastructure, and fostering sustainable economic growth. For instance, the World Bank has invested heavily in renewable energy projects across developing nations, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change while ensuring access to affordable energy for millions of people.
On a more focused level, nonprofit organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and Amnesty International bring direct support to communities in need. Whether it's providing medical aid in conflict zones or advocating for human rights, their work exemplifies the spirit of solidarity. These organizations bridge the gap between policy and action, demonstrating that collaboration across borders can save lives and uplift entire communities.
While international organizations provide structural support, solidarity begins at the grassroots level, often through volunteering. Across the globe, countless initiatives bring people together to support their communities and create lasting connections. Programs like the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) exemplify how volunteering builds bridges between cultures, providing opportunities for young people to work on projects that benefit society.
The ESC enables individuals aged 18–30 to engage in activities like environmental conservation, education, and refugee support. Volunteers gain valuable experiences while contributing to meaningful change. Such programs show that solidarity is a two-way street: by helping others, we also grow, learn, and deepen our understanding of the world.
Similarly, organizations like Praxis Greece work tirelessly to support marginalized communities. Whether organizing food distributions, conducting educational workshops, or simply offering emotional support, their actions embody the spirit of solidarity. They remind us that even small efforts can make a significant difference when driven by compassion and a shared sense of purpose.
Stromae’s Formidable challenges us to reevaluate how we perceive and treat others, especially in moments of vulnerability. International Human Solidarity Day echoes this challenge on a broader scale, urging us to reflect on our shared humanity.
Empathy is the foundation of solidarity. By taking the time to understand others’ experiences, we foster connections that transcend cultural, social, and economic divides. It’s a practice that requires active effort—listening, learning, and being present for those in need.
The collective action necessary to achieve the SDGs relies on this empathy. The global challenges we face—be it climate change, the refugee crisis, or economic disparities—are too vast for any one nation or organization to address alone. As citizens of the world, we must embrace the principles of solidarity in both thought and action. This could mean supporting initiatives by global organizations, participating in local volunteer efforts, or simply being more mindful of the struggles others face.
Solidarity is not a one-time act but a continuous commitment to building a world where no one is left behind. It starts with small, consistent actions that ripple outward, creating a more compassionate and united global community.
As we celebrate International Human Solidarity Day, let’s remember that each of us has a role to play. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simple acts of kindness, we can all contribute to a more equitable and empathetic world.
Together, we are formidable.
This powerful depiction of human behavior forces us to reflect: Are we truly paying attention to the struggles of others? It’s a question at the heart of International Human Solidarity Day, celebrated every December 20th. Established by the United Nations in 2005, this day emphasizes unity in addressing global challenges. It serves as a reminder that building a fairer world requires collective action rooted in empathy, understanding, and mutual support.
International Human Solidarity Day highlights the importance of working together to combat issues like poverty, inequality, and climate change. These problems transcend borders and require global cooperation. At the center of this effort are the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a roadmap adopted in 2015 to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
The SDGs address pressing challenges like hunger, education, gender equality, and environmental conservation. However, achieving these ambitious goals depends on collective action and the involvement of diverse stakeholders. Governments play a crucial role, but they cannot succeed alone. Civil society, private enterprises, and individual citizens must all contribute to driving meaningful change.
Worldwide organizations are essential in turning the vision of the SDGs into reality. The United Nations, through agencies like the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and UNICEF, provides funding, expertise, and policy support to help countries tackle their most urgent challenges. These organizations act as mediators, ensuring that resources are distributed to regions where they are most needed.
Similarly, institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) play a critical role by funding large-scale projects aimed at eradicating poverty, improving infrastructure, and fostering sustainable economic growth. For instance, the World Bank has invested heavily in renewable energy projects across developing nations, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change while ensuring access to affordable energy for millions of people.
On a more focused level, nonprofit organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and Amnesty International bring direct support to communities in need. Whether it's providing medical aid in conflict zones or advocating for human rights, their work exemplifies the spirit of solidarity. These organizations bridge the gap between policy and action, demonstrating that collaboration across borders can save lives and uplift entire communities.
While international organizations provide structural support, solidarity begins at the grassroots level, often through volunteering. Across the globe, countless initiatives bring people together to support their communities and create lasting connections. Programs like the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) exemplify how volunteering builds bridges between cultures, providing opportunities for young people to work on projects that benefit society.
The ESC enables individuals aged 18–30 to engage in activities like environmental conservation, education, and refugee support. Volunteers gain valuable experiences while contributing to meaningful change. Such programs show that solidarity is a two-way street: by helping others, we also grow, learn, and deepen our understanding of the world.
Similarly, organizations like Praxis Greece work tirelessly to support marginalized communities. Whether organizing food distributions, conducting educational workshops, or simply offering emotional support, their actions embody the spirit of solidarity. They remind us that even small efforts can make a significant difference when driven by compassion and a shared sense of purpose.
Stromae’s Formidable challenges us to reevaluate how we perceive and treat others, especially in moments of vulnerability. International Human Solidarity Day echoes this challenge on a broader scale, urging us to reflect on our shared humanity.
Empathy is the foundation of solidarity. By taking the time to understand others’ experiences, we foster connections that transcend cultural, social, and economic divides. It’s a practice that requires active effort—listening, learning, and being present for those in need.
The collective action necessary to achieve the SDGs relies on this empathy. The global challenges we face—be it climate change, the refugee crisis, or economic disparities—are too vast for any one nation or organization to address alone. As citizens of the world, we must embrace the principles of solidarity in both thought and action. This could mean supporting initiatives by global organizations, participating in local volunteer efforts, or simply being more mindful of the struggles others face.
Solidarity is not a one-time act but a continuous commitment to building a world where no one is left behind. It starts with small, consistent actions that ripple outward, creating a more compassionate and united global community.
As we celebrate International Human Solidarity Day, let’s remember that each of us has a role to play. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simple acts of kindness, we can all contribute to a more equitable and empathetic world.
Together, we are formidable.
Léa Zwisler
Léa is a French volunteer involved in the International Human Solidarity day.
