September 21 is observed as the International Day of Peace.
Key facts
- The International Day of Peace is observed to strengthen the ideals of peace through the observance of 24-hours of non-violence and ceasefire.
- Its main objective is to create a world where compassion and empathy overcome suspicion and hatred.
- The theme for 2022 is “End racism. Build peace.” It aims to eradicate racism and put an end to race-based discrimination.
- It highlights the plights faced by people who were displaced by conflicts because of racism.
- It also recognized the issues faced by certain racial groups during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effect on certain races during the economic crisis.
- This year, International Day of Peace was observed on September 16, 2022 at the UN Headquarters in New York.
- The programme commenced with the traditional Peace Bell Ceremony at the Peace Garden
Background
The International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations General Assembly in the year 1981. In 2001, the UNGA adopted a resolution to designate this day as a period of non-violence and ceasefire.
About Peace Bell
The Peace Bell was donated by the United Nations Association of Japan in June 1954. It was created as a symbol of hope for peace. The bell was made from coin and medals donated by the representatives of member states, the Pope and people, including children from 60 countries. The bell tower was modelled based on the Hanamido (a temple decorated with flowers) that symbolizes the place where Buddha was born. It is rung twice a year – once at the Vernal Equinox and on the occasion of the International Day for Peace. It has an inscription on its side that reads “Long Live Absolute World Peace”.