The International Day of Peace is observed annually on 21 September and is a United Nations-commissioned global holiday. The day aims to spread awareness about war-time evils and preach global harmony all across the globe.
Every year on 21 September, the UN calls on all nations and people to put down their weapons and talk about their commitment to living in harmony with one another.
International Day of Peace 2020 Theme:
This year, it has been clearer than ever that we are not each other’s enemies. Rather, our common enemy is a tireless virus that threatens our health, security, and very way of life. COVID-19 has thrown our world into turmoil and forcibly reminded us that what happens in one part of the planet can impact people everywhere.
The 2020 theme for the International Day of Peace is “Shaping Peace Together.” Celebrate the day by spreading compassion, kindness, and hope in the face of the pandemic. Stand together with the UN against attempts to use the virus to promote discrimination or hatred, the UN page read.
History of International Day of Peace:
Declared by the UN General Assembly in 2001, the International Day of Peace calls on all nations to observe a day of global ceasefire and non-violence and invites all people everywhere in the world to honour a cessation of hostilities throughout the day. The UN has invited Member States, United Nations bodies, regional and non-governmental organisations to commemorate the Day and to co-operate with the United Nations in establishing the global ceasefire.
Significance of International Day of Peace:
Peace is possible. Throughout history, most societies have lived in peace most of the time. Today, we are much less likely to die in war than our parents or grandparents. Since the establishment of the United Nations and the creation of the Charter of the United Nations, governments are obligated not to use force against others unless they are acting in self-defense or have been authorized by the UN Security Council to proceed.
Quotes on Peace:
- “When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.” – Jimi Hendrix
- “World peace begins with inner peace.” – Dalai Lama
- “To forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, you will receive untold peace and happiness.” – Robert Muller
- “True peace is not merely the absence of tension: it is the presence of justice. – Martin Luther King Jr
- “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.” – Mahatma Gandhi
