Image Courtesy: UN Photo/Manuel Elías
International Day of Peace is observed every year on 21 September. It is a United Nations-sanctioned holiday observed annually on 21 September.
It is dedicated to world peace, and specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access. On this day, the aim is to observe a ceasefire for 24 hours in all areas across all nations where fighting is going on.
As Secretary-General António Guterres has said:
Racism continues to poison institutions, social structures, and everyday life in every society. It continues to be a driver of persistent inequality. And it continues to deny people their fundamental human rights. It destabilizes societies, undermines democracies, erodes the legitimacy of governments, and… the linkages between racism and gender inequality are unmistakable.
There are numerous days which is related to the International Day of Peace. International Day of Conscience is observed on 5 April, and International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is observed on 24 April. Another similar event is the International Day of Living Together in Peace which is observed on 16 May.
The theme of International Day of Peace – 2022
The theme of International Day of Peace – 2022 is “End racism. Build peace” The 2021 theme for the International Day of Peace is “Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world”. Other themes are indicated below:
- 2020 – Shaping Peace Together
- 2019 – Climate Action for Peace
- 2018 – The Right to Peace: Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 70
- 2017 – Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All
- 2016 – The Sustainable Development Goals: Building Blocks for Peace
- 2015 – Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All
- 2014 – The Right of Peoples to Peace
- 2013 – Education for Peace
- 2012 – Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future
- 2011 – Peace and Democracy: Make your voice heard!
History of International Day of Peace
The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously voted to designate the Day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire. United Nations-sanctioned holiday observed annually on 21 September.
Peace is possible. Throughout history, most societies have lived in peace most of the time. Today, we are much less likely to die in war than our parents or grandparents. Since the establishment of the United Nations and the creation of the Charter of the United Nations, governments are obligated not to use force against others unless they are acting in self-defence or have been authorized by the UN Security Council to proceed.
It is more important than ever today to promote peace and open-mindedness for acceptance across gender, race, and territory. Individuals and organizations around the world participate in activities and host events centred on a set theme for the year. Activities vary from private events to public ceremonies, festivals, and concerts sending the message of peace to large audiences.