"The practice of peace and reconciliation is one of the

most vital and artistic of human actions." - Thich Nhat Hanh

 

The 21st of September marks International Day of Peace, an

annual observance dedicated to promoting the ideals of peace

and working towards building a sustainable culture of peace.

Established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly

Resolution 55/8282, the United Nations encourages a 24 hour

commitment to non-violence and cease fire. 

 

International Day of Peace serves as a reminder of the

importance of peace in ensuring a prosperous and sustainable

future for all. Intertwined with the principles of justice and

international law, leading with peace saves future generations

from the grueling effects of war and inadvertently encourages

international cooperation when faced with economic, social and humanitarian issues. 

 

The world has been plagued with a highly infectious virus, unprecedented in recent history. The coronavirus pandemic has had horrendous implications on education, the global economy and future productivity, possibly causing a regression in human development. Hence, the United Nations announced that the 2020 theme of International Day of Peace is “Shaping Peace Together.” Facing unprecedented struggles and acknowledging the rapid growth of violent extremism, this day encourages the fostering of dialogue, global solidarity and joint action. 

 

Nevertheless, the Geneva Institute for Human Rights urges all states to renounce violence and terrorism in all its forms and to promote a culture of peace and democracy through active dialogue, mediation and acknowledgement of others equal rights and freedoms. The Geneva Institute for Human Rights appeals to all states to abide by the provisions of the United Nations Charter and other international and regional instruments to ensure the maintenance of international peace and security. 

 

Moreover, the Institute urges the global community to not only commemorate this important day by the cessation of aggression and hostilities, but to promote a culture of peace and non-violence through education and awareness raising on issues related to peace. The pursuit of peace is not only vital to peaceful and sustainable development but it also ensures a prosperous future and the well-being of new generations. 

Kofi Annan, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations, once stated that : “  … healthy and sustainable societies are based on three pillars: peace and security, sustainable development, the rule of law and respect for human rights. There can be no long-term security without development; there can be no long-term development without security; and no society can long remain prosperous without the rule of law and respect for human rights.”