September 21: International Day of Peace

The International Day of Peace is observed by United Nations on September 21, every year.

Key Points

• This day is also called as World Peace Day.
• The Day is celebrated across the world in order to strengthen the ideals of peace by observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
• It promotes global solidarity to build a peaceful and sustainable world.

Background

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has unanimously passed a resolution in February 2021 and called the Member States to support a “sustained humanitarian pause” for local conflicts. As per the official website of UN, the global ceasefire must continue to be honoured in order to ensure that people who are caught in conflict have access to lifesaving vaccinations and treatments.

Theme of the Day

Theme of International Day of Peace in year 2021 is “Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world”. The theme focuses on how to help everyone in recovering better, how to build resilience and how to transform the world into a place which is more just, equal, equitable, inclusive, sustainable & healthier.

History of the Day

United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had established the day in 1981. Third Tuesday of September was chosen as the International Day of Peace, which also marks the opening day of the regular sessions of the UNGA. Later, UNGA declared September 21 as the International Day of Peace in 2001.

Significance of the day

The day is celebrated as a period of non-violence and cease-fire. It plays a significant role in promoting peace across the world. The day seeks to promote a green & sustainable global economy which produces jobs, reduces emissions, and builds resilience towards climate impacts.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2021