The International Day of Peace, or also known as the World Peace Day, is observed yearly on the 21st of September. It is a shared date meant specifically for strengthening world peace. The day was originally established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981, but was set as a period of non-violence and ceasefire in 2001. It was first practiced in 1982, and has since been observed by nations worldwide.
Importance of the Day
Every day, violence, abuse, discrimination, sexism, and racism run rampant in the world. Furthermore, poverty, mass displacement, forced labor, and trafficking are horrible issues negatively impacting millions of people. With a society filled with terror, fear, and uncertainty, peace can no longer be a romanticized fantasy out of reach, but an ideal we actively strive for.
Theme for 2025
The theme for 2025’s International Day of Peace is “Act Now for a Peaceful World”. The theme approaches the fact that everyone in society has a role to play. We can all come together to speak out against issues like hate-fueled-violence, racial/gender-based discrimination, and more. For example, we can volunteer in our communities, read books or watch movies that show perspectives different from our own, donate to sustainable organizations/humanitarian organizations, etc.
The United Nations’ Work
The United Nations has led many international peace-related initiatives to combat conflicts. For example, in its Peacebuilding Commission, the United Nations began to work on believed catalysts of violence— poverty, inequality, and discrimination. In its 17 Sustainable Development Goals, the United Nations has backed many countries attempting to better their living and health conditions. Recently, the United Nations created the Pact for the Future, which aims to focus on STEM-related challenges, and support future generations. Additionally, United Nations’ peacekeepers work dangerously around the world to address injustices.
UNESCO BMW’s Vision
Our mission is to promote and to put into action programs that help raise a new generation of peacemakers, to create the conditions for dialogue among civilizations, cultures and people, based upon respect for shared values.
UNESCO BMW’s Involvement
UNESCO BMW is an organization centered around peace. We hold many meditative workshops to unite people from different backgrounds through wellness events. For example, our ReWind program aims to connect people together to create a future filled with hope and love. The ReWind program offers a 24-week (6 months for 60 hours) guided online session plan to help others manage stress in their lives. We welcome individuals of any sexuality, race, ethnicity, gender, disability, age, and more, to strive towards peace with us.
By: Vallerie Kalekar