On International Day of Peace, Global Conflicts Expand as Military Spending Reaches Record Levels
On International Day of Peace, Global Conflicts Expand as Military Spending Reaches Record Levels
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The world marks the International Day of Peace on Monday, September 21, 2026, amid growing armed conflicts, declining global peace levels, record military spending, and a rising number of people displaced by violence and insecurity.
This year’s observance is held under the United Nations theme “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for greater efforts in diplomacy, dialogue, negotiation, and peacebuilding, emphasizing that peace goes beyond the absence of war and includes security, dignity, and opportunities.
According to the Global Peace Index 2026, the average level of global peace declined by 0.7% over the past year, marking the 12th consecutive year of deterioration. The report indicated that 99 countries experienced declines in peace levels, while 62 countries recorded improvements.
At the same time, global military expenditure reached an estimated $2.9 trillion in 2025, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the highest level recorded by the institute. The year also witnessed active armed conflicts in 49 countries and nearly 238,000 conflict-related deaths.
The humanitarian impact has also increased, with the UN refugee agency reporting 117.8 million forcibly displaced people worldwide by the end of 2025 due to conflicts, violence, persecution, and human rights violations.
The Middle East remains among the world’s least peaceful regions, with ongoing crises in Yemen, Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan continuing to cause civilian suffering and displacement. International organizations have renewed calls for stronger diplomatic efforts and practical measures to prevent conflicts and address their humanitarian consequences.
