INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE: A DAY OF NON-VIOLENCE AND CEASE-FIRE

The United Nations General Assembly establishes September 21st as the International Day of Peace for a world confronted by uncommon challenges. Each day requires peace more than ever to provide stability for the majority suffering and facing the terrors of terrorism, violence, and prejudice. 

“The world needs peace—now more than ever.” - Antonio Guterres

Written by: Aira Mae Lao

Layout by: Bea Salvacion

September 21, 2023 | 3:50 P.M.

The 21st of September was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Day of Peace. According to the official website of the UN, the day was established in 1981 by the General Assembly as a day designated for non-violence and cease-fire. September 21st, 10 days after the historical 9/11 attack, was when mass donations and charities all over the world helped raise billions as aid for the victims' families. This act was one of the biggest unions mankind did to help and further maintain the global peace after the tragedy. For this reason, the day is advertised to be celebrated all over the world as it is dedicated to strengthening the principles of peace and emphasizing on the importance of peacefully living in coexistence.

This year’s theme is “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals”. It aims to call people to act towards a communal responsibility to advocate and foster peace. Maintaining and advocating for peace is a contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals which was also established by the UN and put to action on January 1st, 2016, which is aimed to be accomplished by the year 2030.

It emerged due to the need for peace in a time of unrivaled challenges with new forces that divide people rising each year, spreading hatred and prejudice. 

Terrorism is still prevalent in some countries with violent extremism seething its way to enter the minds of the vulnerable and youth. Least-developed countries are greatly affected and at risk of natural disasters causing forced migration and risking violence upon those entering in foreign communities. 

“The barriers to peace are complex and steep—no one country can solve them alone. Doing so requires new forms of solidarity and joint action, starting as early as possible.” - United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)