With global peace such a critical item on the United Nations’ agenda, September 21 – as the International Day of Peace – is arguably the most significant on the UN calendar. And this year, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon took the opportunity to once again call for a global cease-fire and the establishment of a lasting peace everywhere.

Established in 1981, the celebration of peace was originally set to correspond with the opening session of the UN General Assembly – the third Tuesday of September. So, the first Peace Day was observed in September 1982. But since 2002, the date September 21 has been officially recognized as an annual day of non-violence and cease-fire, and a day to devote to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

This year’s theme is “Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All”, which aims to highlight the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. The UN points out that its work would not be possible without the initial partnerships that were active in its creation and the thousands of partnerships each year between governments, civil society, the private sector, faith-based groups and other non-governmental organizations needed to support the UN’s future goals.

UN Secretary-General’s Message

In his annual International Day of Peace message, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on the world to keep faith and to demand peace. He also called on warring parties to end the conflicts they are involved in.

“This year’s International Day of Peace comes at a time of deadly violence and destabilizing conflicts around the world,” he said. “Rather than succumbing to despair, we have a collective responsibility to demand an end to the brutality and impunity that prevail.

“I call on all warring parties to lay down their weapons and observe a global ceasefire. To them I say: stop the killings and the destruction, and create space for lasting peace.”

The UN head also highlighted the crucial role that young people can play in establishing and maintaining peace around the world.

“Although it may seem hopelessly distant, the dream of peace pulses in the lives of people everywhere. There is no group more poised to help realize this dream than today’s young people. They are part of the largest generation of youth in history, more aware and connected than any before. I urge all governments to make greater investments in realizing the potentially massive contributions of the world’s young peacebuilders.

“At the same time, we need to mobilize all partners who share the goal of peace,” he continued. “Non-governmental organizations, faith-based groups and corporations all have a role to play in fostering social progress, protecting the environment and creating a more just, stable and peaceful world. The value of this collaboration is our theme for the Day: “Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All.”

UN Events

To mark the 2015 International Day of Peace, the UN is streaming a live webcast a Global Student Videoconference, which includes a live chatroom where viewers can express their views.

In a matter of days, leaders from across the globe are expected to gather at the United Nations to adopt the 2030 agenda, which is a new 15-year plan to achieve sustainable development. This is a plan considered fundamental to establishing a life of dignity for all, where poverty is history and peace is paramount.

For more information on the International Day of Peace, check out the UN website.  You can also read the Full Message from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and can check out details on the UN’s 2030 Agenda.

Image:The 2015 International Day of Peace marks the 70th anniversary of the UN. Taken from UN.org