The association Mensajeros de la Paz and the Padre Ángel Social Foundation are promoting the International Day Against Unwanted Loneliness, which is celebrated every December 16th. This day aims to reflect and raise awareness about a growing issue in society, encouraging the collaboration and participation of all people and institutions sensitive to this cause.
Unwanted loneliness has always been a concern for Mensajeros de la Paz, which, for over 30 years, has answered calls from people seeking a friendly voice through its Golden Line (Teléfono Dorado).
With the celebration of the International Day Against Unwanted Loneliness, Father Ángel seeks to bring visibility to this issue, join forces with all individuals and organizations that share this concern, and invite everyone to share ideas and actions to help alleviate unwanted loneliness.
Social isolation, which occurs at similar rates across all regions, currently affects one in four older adults. Studies indicate that at least one in six adolescents is socially isolated or feels lonely, though it is likely that the true extent of this problem is underestimated.
The International Day Against Unwanted Loneliness will be commemorated each December 16th, coinciding with the birthday of Ludwig van Beethoven, the renowned composer who experienced social isolation due to his hearing disability. Despite this, Beethoven created wonderful works such as the Ninth Symphony, with its “Ode to Joy,” which continues to inspire a longing for peace and fraternity in all who hear it.
This positive spirit is the foundation of the initiative, which seeks to improve the lives and well-being of so many people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unwanted loneliness is one of the greatest public health threats of the 21st century, comparable in impact to smoking or obesity. It is a silent epidemic affecting people of all ages and in every region of the world.
Mensajeros de la Paz and the Padre Ángel Social Foundation are calling on individuals and institutions to support their petition to the United Nations General Assembly to officially declare December 16th as the International Day Against Unwanted Loneliness.
