International Day of Peace 2021: Theme, history and significance

There’s no denying the fact that we live in a violent society and everyday headlines related to crimes, mass shootings, gang wars and abuse are proof. However, this is also true that in each one of us is left a hope to attain peace. To celebrate this spirit that we are not each others’ enemies, the ‘International Day of Peace is observed on September 21 every year. The day encourages people to be tolerant and building a peaceful world for posterity.

This year’s International Day of Peace will be celebrated on the lines of ‘Recovering Better for an Equitable and Sustainable World.’ This theme, however, traces back its importance in history. Today, on the occasion of International Day of Peace, let us know about the history and significance of the day.

Also Read: International Day of UN Peacekeepers: History, significance, all you need to know

International Day of Peace history

The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981 to encourage and celebrate peace across the world. It was first celebrated in the year 1982 on the third Tuesday of September. This was the time when countries were often engaging in war to gain power and control of others’ territory. 

However, from 2002, the UN decided to celebrate International Day of Peace on September 21 and designated a day when all the countries would practice peace and ceasefire. The aim behind the date change was to encourage people to work in cooperation to maintain the peace of this world.

Also Read: 10 years on, no peace after war in Syria

International Day of Peace 2021

This year, the UN has adopted the ‘Recovering Better for an Equitable and Sustainable World’ theme for the day in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With this theme, the organisation has urged the world to come together to think creatively and collectively about how to help everyone recover better, how to develop resilience, and how to transform the world into one that is more just, inclusive, sustainable, and healthier. 

International Day of Peace significance

The UN urges the world to celebrate the day by spreading compassion, kindness and hope in the face of the pandemic.

Since the coronavirus pandemic has given birth to racism and hatred of a new kind in the west, especially against Asians. The day reminds us to stand together with the UN against attempts to use the virus to promote discrimination or hatred.