International Day of Peace - September 21

Why in News ?

International Day of Peace is celebrated every year on September 21. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly to promote the ideal of peace throughout the world and strengthen international cooperation to prevent violence, war, and conflict.

Establishment and History

• This day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981 and first celebrated in 1982.
• Initially, it was celebrated on the third Tuesday of September, but in 2001, the United Nations unanimously passed a resolution permanently setting the date as September 21.

Objectives

• To promote peace and non-violence at the international, national, and local levels.
• To convey the message of ceasefire and the prevention of armed conflict.
• To foster a spirit of mutual brotherhood and cooperation among people, societies, and countries.
• To strengthen the peace efforts of the United Nations.
• To build a violence-free society through education, awareness, and social campaigns.

How to Celebrate

• The Peace Bell is rung at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This bell was gifted by Japan.
• Seminars, workshops, peace rallies, cultural programs, and interfaith dialogues are held worldwide.
• Essay, debate, and poster competitions are held in schools and colleges.
• Social organizations conduct public awareness campaigns on peace and coexistence.

Significance

• This day brings to life the ideals of the United Nations Charter, which states that world peace and security are the supreme goal.
• It commemorates the ideology of nonviolence of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.
• It conveys the message that war is never the solution, but dialogue and brotherhood are the only lasting solutions.
• This day underscores the imperative of peace amid rising geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts.

Challenges

• War, terrorism, civil war, and violence continue to exist in the world.
• Problems such as religious fanaticism, ethnic conflicts and racism.
• New conflicts due to climate change and resource scarcity.
• Political competition among powerful nations.

India and International Peace

• India has always promoted the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam."
• India has played a major role in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
• India is among the largest contributors to United Nations peacekeeping missions.
• Mahatma Gandhi's principle of non-violence is a source of inspiration for global peace.