This International Day of Peace, observed every September 21, carries the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World”. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the global community to take action, reminding us that “Peace cannot wait” in today’s warring world.
“Silence the guns, end the suffering, build bridges, and create stability and prosperity,” Guterres said, calling on nations, organizations, and individuals to give voice to this urgent appeal.
He painted a stark picture: around the world, lives are being ripped apart, childhoods extinguished and basic human dignity discarded amidst the cruelty and degradations of war. This human toll fuels his determination to push for lasting solutions.
Guterres highlighted the strong link between sustainable development and peace, noting that nine out of the ten countries most behind on development are also embroiled in conflict. Investing in peace, he argued, is investing in a more equitable future.
The UN chief also called on the international community to quell the racism, dehumanization and misinformation that throw fuel on the fires of conflict. “Where we have peace, we have hope,” he concluded.
The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the UN General Assembly and designated in 2001 as a period of non-violence and ceasefire. This year’s call to action: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
Reference(s):
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