UN Marks International Day of Peace With Call to End Global Conflicts

UN Marks International Day of Peace With Call to End Global Conflicts
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The United Nations marked the International Day of Peace on September 21, with Secretary-General António Guterres urging world leaders and communities to silence weapons and end wars. This year’s observance carries the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” In his message, Guterres stressed that peace is a universal aspiration and the only path to end suffering and achieve sustainable development.

He warned that ongoing conflicts continue to undermine international law, destroy lives, and displace millions at unprecedented levels. “Peace concerns everyone, and its impact reaches beyond borders,” he said, calling for collective efforts to halt violence, rebuild trust, and create conditions for stability and prosperity.

The Secretary-General highlighted the link between peace and development, noting that nine of the ten countries most affected by weak development indicators are mired in conflict. He called for addressing racism, combating misinformation, and embracing dialogue and mutual respect.

The UN’s Peacebuilding Commission, marking its 20th anniversary this year, continues efforts to tackle poverty, discrimination, and inequality—drivers of violence—while advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Meanwhile, UN peacekeepers remain active in fragile environments, reinforcing the importance of joint action. Guterres also underscored the Global Futures Charter, adopted last year, as a framework to address emerging challenges and strengthen the role of future generations in shaping peace.