21 September: International Day of Peace

Origins of the International Day of Peace and the United Nations’ Role

The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly as a day dedicated to promoting peace across the globe. In 2001, the General Assembly unanimously designated 21 September as a day specifically devoted to non-violence and ceasefire. Each year, this observance serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to foster peace, with the United Nations encouraging all nations to observe 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire as a symbol of global unity and reconciliation.

Global Efforts for Peace During the COVID-19 Pandemic

In 2021, as the world continued to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries were called upon to collaborate and innovate in building resilience and creating a more equitable, just, inclusive, sustainable, and healthy world.

The pandemic exposed and deepened existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized and underprivileged communities. By April 2021, more than 687 million COVID-19 vaccine doses had been administered worldwide, yet over 100 countries had not received a single dose. Vulnerable populations in conflict zones faced even greater barriers to accessing essential healthcare.

Responding to the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire in March 2020, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution in February 2021, urging member states to support a “sustained humanitarian pause” in conflicts. This global ceasefire is vital to ensure that those affected by war can access lifesaving vaccines and medical care.

Beyond the health crisis, the pandemic has fueled stigma, discrimination, and hatred—undermining efforts to save lives. COVID-19 does not discriminate by nationality, race, or belief, reminding us that our true adversary is the virus, not each other. Building peace among people is essential to overcoming the pandemic’s profound impacts.

Equally important is peace with nature. Despite travel restrictions and economic slowdowns, climate change has continued unabated. Building a sustainable, resilient global economy that reduces emissions and addresses climate impacts is essential for the health of our planet and future generations.

Theme of the International Day of Peace 2021: Recovering Better for an Equitable and Sustainable World

The 2021 theme for the International Day of Peace was “Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world.” This theme called on individuals and organizations everywhere to join the United Nations in building a more just, nonviolent, and inclusive world as part of the global recovery from the pandemic.

The observance encouraged people to stand up against hate—both online and offline—and to spread compassion, kindness, and hope. It emphasized that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but also the presence of justice and equality.

For more information, visit the official United Nations International Day of Peace page.

Ways to Observe the International Day of Peace

The International Day of Peace offers an opportunity for individuals, communities, and nations to engage in activities that promote peace and nonviolence. Here are some meaningful ways to observe the day:

Organize or participate in peace marches and rallies. These events raise awareness and demonstrate solidarity for peaceful coexistence.
Host educational programs and workshops. Schools, universities, and community centers can facilitate discussions on the importance of peace and conflict resolution.
Engage in acts of kindness and compassion. Small gestures can have a profound impact on fostering harmony within communities.
Promote interfaith and intercultural dialogues. Understanding and respecting diverse perspectives are essential to peacebuilding.
Use social media platforms responsibly. Share messages of hope, unity, and tolerance to counter hate speech and misinformation.
Support humanitarian aid initiatives. Donate to or volunteer with organizations assisting those affected by conflict and crisis.

The Importance of Global Ceasefires and Humanitarian Pauses

Global ceasefires are crucial for achieving sustainable peace. They enable humanitarian aid to reach vulnerable populations and create opportunities for dialogue and reconciliation. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgency of ceasefires, as conflict zones became especially vulnerable due to limited healthcare access.

The United Nations Security Council’s call for a “sustained humanitarian pause” underscored the need for member states to prioritize human life above political or military interests. Such pauses allow for vaccination campaigns, medical treatment, and other essential services in conflict-affected areas.

These efforts not only save lives but also help build trust among conflicting parties, paving the way for lasting peace agreements. Upholding ceasefires is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation across borders and sectors.

Peace and Climate Action: Interconnected Goals

Peace with nature is fundamental to lasting peace among people. Climate change poses significant threats to global stability, intensifying resource scarcity, displacement, and social tensions.

Despite lockdowns and travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation persisted, underscoring the need for uninterrupted climate action.

Building a sustainable global economy—one that reduces emissions and strengthens resilience to climate impacts—is essential to preventing conflicts driven by environmental factors. Investing in renewable energy, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable agriculture all contribute to ecological balance and social harmony.

For more insights into climate change and peacebuilding, visit the United Nations Climate Change portal.