Global, 21 September 2023 (TDI): The International Day of Peace, observed on 21 September, aligns with the United Nations’ mission to promote global peace and security.
This day serves as a reminder of the urgent need for peace in our increasingly complex world, where factors such as conflict, poverty, hunger, and climate instability pose significant challenges.
The theme for this year, “Actions for Peace, Our Ambition for the Global Goals,” underscores the connection between peace and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
It emphasizes that achieving these goals is essential for establishing a culture of peace worldwide. Notably, 2023 marks the midpoint in the implementation of the SDGs, further highlighting the significance of the International Day of Peace.
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres has emphasized the destructive consequences of war and conflict, which lead to the displacement of millions of people.
This underscores the need for peace efforts to address these critical issues. Climate instability exacerbates these challenges, even in traditionally peaceful nations, highlighting the intricate connections between peace, inequality, and political polarization.
To achieve the SDGs, diverse stakeholders, including the youth, must actively participate. The United Nations calls on everyone to respond to the call for peace by addressing inequality, taking action on climate change, and safeguarding human rights.
Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, emphasizes that creating a peaceful world requires addressing inequalities and injustices that hinder progress.
Also Read: International Day of Democracy 2023
A divided planet cannot achieve lasting peace, reinforcing the idea that peace is closely linked to equity and inclusivity.
The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity recognizes the importance of integrating peace related issues into its work.
Discussions between Dr. Cristiana Paşca Palmer, the Executive Secretary of the Convention, and Secretary General António Guterres highlight the interconnected challenges of biodiversity, peace, security, and human resilience.
The Peace and Biodiversity Dialogue Initiative (PBDI) provides a platform for cross-border collaboration in protected areas worldwide, emphasizing the role of cooperation in promoting peace and biodiversity conservation.
International Day of Peace, celebrates global solidarity for a peaceful world, aligns with the need for unity in addressing today’s unprecedented challenges.
In an era marked by emerging forces of division, such as hatred and intolerance, this day emphasizes the importance of countering these divisive tendencies.
){kind=link}