UN observes International Day of Peace on Sept 21

The International Day of Peace (Peace Day) is observed around the world every year on September 21. 

The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire.

It was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. The UNGA declared this as a day devoted to “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.”

In 2001, the UNGA unanimously voted to fix the date on September 21.

The 2020 theme for the International Day of Peace is “Shaping Peace Together.” 

The UN urges people to celebrate the day by spreading compassion, kindness and hope in the face of the pandemic. Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to peace above all differences and to contribute to building a culture of peace.

Earlier, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres ushered in the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly with the ringing of the Peace Bell. 

What is the Peace Bell?

The Peace Bell at the UN headquarters was donated by the United Nations Association of Japan in June 1954.

The bell was cast from coins and medals donated by the representatives of Member States, the Pope, and people, including children from over 60 different nations. The bell tower was modelled after the Hanamido (a small temple decorated with flowers) that symbolises the place where Buddha was born.

It has become tradition to ring the bell twice a year: on the first day of spring, at the Vernal Equinox, and on September 21 to celebrate the International Day for Peace.

On the International Day for Peace, the UN Secretary-General rings the bell in the presence of representatives of permanent missions and officials of the UN Secretariat.

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