CalEvents:Dec/Dec 14
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for December 14
Date
Event
Significance
December 14, 1960
United Nations adopts the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples
The UN General Assembly passed Resolution 1514, affirming the right of all colonized peoples to self-determination and independence. This was a pivotal moment for African nations, as it accelerated the process of decolonization and independence across the continent.
December 14, 1961
Tanzania (then Tanganyika) is admitted to the United Nations
Following its independence from Britain, Tanganyika (now Tanzania) was admitted as a member of the United Nations. This marked its official entry into the global diplomatic community and solidified its sovereignty as a new African nation.
December 14, 1989
Adoption of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
This protocol aimed to abolish the death penalty worldwide. Many African nations, grappling with human rights reforms in the post-colonial period, would later sign and ratify this protocol, reflecting the continent's evolving stance on human rights.
December 14, 1990
United Nations declares Nelson Mandela International Day
The UN established Nelson Mandela International Day to honor Mandela’s contributions to the fight against apartheid and his promotion of peace, human rights, and democracy. This day would become a symbol of global solidarity with African liberation movements.
December 14, 1994
South African Parliament adopts a new democratic constitution
South Africa’s Parliament approved a new constitution, which included a strong Bill of Rights and enshrined equal rights for all citizens, effectively dismantling the legal framework of apartheid and marking a new era of democratic governance.
December 14, 2013
South Sudanese civil war begins
On this day, violence broke out in South Sudan between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and former Vice President Riek Machar. The conflict led to a prolonged civil war that deeply impacted the young nation’s development and stability.