Each year on September 21st, people around the world come together to observe the International Day of Peace, a day dedicated to promoting global peace, unity, and harmony.
This year the theme of the day is “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals”.
The United Nations' celebration of the International Day of Peace today underscores the global dedication to alleviating human suffering and fostering enduring peace in nations grappling with warfare and internal strife.
Pakistan's pivotal role in international peace and stability cannot be overstated. Pakistani peacekeeping forces have made significant contributions to the successful execution of UN missions.
To date, over 220,000 Pakistani soldiers have served in forty-six UN peacekeeping missions spanning twenty-nine countries worldwide, a testament to Pakistan's enduring commitment to upholding the ideals of peace and security on the global stage.
The day provides an opportunity to raise public awareness about the devastating impact of armed conflicts and violence on communities, economies, and individuals. It highlights the importance of peaceful coexistence and diplomacy.
History
The origins of the International Day of Peace date back to 1981 when the United Nations (UN) established this observance to coincide with the opening session of the General Assembly. The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming the third Tuesday of September as the International Day of Peace. However, in 2001, the General Assembly moved the observance to September 21st to mark the opening day of their regular session.
Peace is not just the absence of war; it also entails respecting and celebrating cultural diversity.
The iconic symbol of the International Day of Peace is the peace dove, which represents hope and the aspiration for a peaceful world. Participants often wear white clothing or accessories as a symbol of peace and unity.
