The Global Call for Peace on International Peace Day

Every year, on September 21st, the world pauses to observe the International Day of Peace, a day that calls on humanity to transcend its differences and focus on a shared commitment to building a culture of peace. Established in 1981 by a unanimous resolution of the United Nations, this day provides an opportunity for every individual, community, and nation to pledge to make peace the priority—a goal that feels more critical with each passing year.

Around the globe, Peace Day is marked in diverse and inspiring ways. From moments of silence to peace education events, from intercultural dialogues to community actions, the day provides a platform for unity and understanding. At the heart of these celebrations is the iconic Peace Bell Ceremony at the UN headquarters, a tradition that dates back to the 1950s. The bell, cast from coins and medals donated by UN member states and children from all over the world, rings out as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to nurture peace.

This year, the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” resonates deeply, as it urges us to look at peace not as a passive state but as an active and ongoing effort that must be nurtured in all communities and generations. The emphasis on “cultivating” implies care, dedication, and action—qualities that are desperately needed as the world faces unprecedented challenges.

In his address at the Peace Bell Ceremony earlier this month, UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark reminder of the harsh realities that threaten global peace. From the Middle East to Sudan, Ukraine, and beyond, violence and conflict continue to wreak havoc on communities. The Secretary-General warned of “geopolitical divisions widening, inequalities growing, and new technologies being weaponized,” all while the climate crisis amplifies instability. His words highlight the interconnectedness of global crises and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to ensure peace.

Here in Pakistan, peace is embedded in our daily greetings. When Muslims greet one another with “Salaam,” they are not only wishing peace but also affirming security and respect. As the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The young should greet the elderly,” underscoring the importance of peace in all interactions. Similarly, the Bible, like many religious texts, is filled with verses that promote peace, emphasizing that all faiths hold peace as a sacred value. It’s a universal principle—peace is the cornerstone of all religions.

Yet, achieving peace is no simple task. It is not merely the absence of war or conflict; peace, in its true form, is the presence of justice, equity, and hope. As we look around the world today, we see that imbalance has eroded peace. Displaced communities, children deprived of education, families without access to clean water—these are just a few of the injustices that prevent us from realizing a peaceful world. True peace can only exist when every individual, regardless of race, faith, or nationality, feels safe, valued, and free.

History is marred by violence and unrest, both on large and small scales. From the moment sin entered the world, as depicted in the story of the Garden of Eden, peace has been fragile. Today, the lack of peace manifests in endless forms—wars, economic inequality, health crises, and societal divisions. With so much turmoil, it can seem impossible to attain peace.

However, peace is not a distant dream. It begins within ourselves and extends outward into our communities and the world. An experienced peacebuilder offers advice that can guide us in this endeavour: calming our minds, simplifying our lives, educating ourselves about inequality, transforming conflicts, and using spaces for peacebuilding. By integrating peace into our personal and professional lives, we contribute to a larger movement that disrupts the structures of violence and builds a more just society.

Music, art, and culture, too, can be powerful tools for peace. They transcend language and borders, bringing people together and fostering understanding. When we support structures that promote justice and equality, we lay the foundation for lasting peace.

In Pakistan, we have a long tradition of peace embedded in our cultural and religious practices. But like the rest of the world, we face the challenge of maintaining that peace in a world that often seems consumed by chaos. The International Day of Peace reminds us that peace is not a one-day event but a daily commitment.

As we celebrate Peace Day this year, let us remember that peace is not a passive wish but an active responsibility. It is difficult, yes—but not impossible. With each step we take, we bring ourselves closer to a world where peace is not just a hope, but a reality. And while September 21st is designated as the International Day of Peace, let us strive to make every day a peace day.

In the words of the UN Secretary-General: "Let peace reign—every day, in every heart, in every corner of the world."