Every year on September 21, the international community celebrates the International Day of Peace.
Sea-news.az reports that the United Nations (UN) General Assembly declared this day as a day to strengthen the ideals of peace among all countries and peoples, both nationally and internationally.
In 1981, the General Assembly established the Day of Peace via resolution 36/67, designating its observance on the third Tuesday of September. In 2001, the General Assembly unanimously adopted resolution 55/282, deciding that starting in 2002, the International Day of Peace would be observed annually on September 21 as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence.
For the majority of the world’s population, peace is an integral part of daily life. City streets are quiet, and children go to kindergartens and schools. In places where the foundations of society are strong, the invaluable blessing of peace may sometimes go unnoticed. However, for a vast number of people in the modern world, this blessing remains an elusive dream. They live in an environment of instability and fear.
Achieving true peace requires more than just halting military operations. It is also essential to build a society where equal opportunities are created for all people. This entails forming a world where everyone is treated equally, regardless of race or religion.
The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how vital it is to provide assistance to every individual and make collective efforts toward building a more egalitarian, fair, inclusive, and sustainable world. The pandemic was also accompanied by an increase in stigmatization, discrimination, and hate incidents. Amid the common threats facing humanity, people must not forget that they are not each other’s enemies.
Recent wars, terrorism, unrest, deep contradictions dividing nations and individuals, the climate crisis, and viruses once again highlight the relevance of the International Day of Peace.
Established by the UN in 1981, this day encompasses millions of people, numerous countries, and regions. Various public and youth organizations initiate campaigns and events to mark the occasion. The International Day of Peace calls on people not only to think about peace but also to take concrete steps in its name.
The UN calls on all countries and nations to halt military operations and conduct educational and public awareness campaigns regarding peace issues. The organization also uses this day to draw attention to its multifaceted activities in support of peace, encouraging individuals, groups, and communities to reflect on peace issues and exchange information and practical experience in this field.
UN events dedicated to the Day of Peace traditionally begin with a ceremony held in front of the Peace Bell at its headquarters in New York. First, the UN Secretary-General delivers an address and rings the bell. This is followed by a minute of silence, after which the President of the UN Security Council speaks.
Every year, the International Day of Peace is dedicated to a specific theme. The theme for 2026 is the slogan “Invest in Peace – for everyone, everywhere, every day.”
