International Day of Peace - International Day of Peace History, Significance, Activities, and Theme

International Day of Peace also known as World Peace Day is celebrated on 21st September every year in the United Nations to strengthen the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and people. Read the article to know more about the importance of peace in the world, History of International Day of Peace, and more.

Divya M | Updated Sep 21, 2021 12:25 PM

International Day of Peace - International Day of Peace History, Significance, Activities, and Theme

International Day of Peace 2021

International Day of Peace is celebrated on 21st September annually. International Day of Peace was organized by the UN to recognize the efforts of those people who have worked hard to end the conflicts and promote peace. International Day of Peace also known as World Peace Day aims at strengthening the ideals of peace, both within all nations and people across the world. People around the world take part in various activities and organize events centered on the theme “peace”. Events vary from private gatherings to public concerts and forums involving large audiences.

What is the History of International Day of Peace?

In 1981, the United Nations General Assembly announced the third Tuesday of September as International Day of Peace. This day coincided with the opening day of the General Assembly's annual sessions. The purpose of the day was and still remains to strengthen the ideals of peace across the world.

Two decades after establishing this day of observance, in 2001, the assembly moved the date to be observed annually on September 21. So, beginning in 2002, September 21 marks not only a time to discuss how to promote and maintain peace among all peoples but also a 24-hour period of global ceasefire and non-violence for groups in active combat.

Throughout history, most societies have lived in harmony most of the time. Today, we are much less likely to die in war than our parents or grandparents. Since the establishment of the United Nations and the creation of the United Nations Charter, governments are obligated not to use force against others unless they are acting in self-defense or have been authorized by the UN Security Council to proceed.

What is the Importance of International Day of Peace?

Observing the International Day of Peace or World Peace Day is crucial as it aims at spreading peace and harmony across the world. The world is so much in need to love, friendship, and positivity, especially during this year, 2020. As we all are aware, there have been a lot of disputes between certain countries for many reasons. So, it is vital to observe this day to spread peace and avoid any form of war that may affect innocent people's lives. International Day of Peace 2020 can be celebrated by spreading peace messages on social media to remind people that there is no happy place to live in than a peaceful world.

International Day of Peace Activities

People from across the world celebrate the International Day of Peace in meaningful and diverse ways. Here are some of the activities on Peace Day:

  • Minute of silence at 12 noon (all time zones).

  • Interfaith and intercultural dialogues.

  • Peace education events.

  • Workshops on the UN Peace Day theme.

  • Planting peace poles.

  • Meditation and prayer.

  • Community gathering.

  • Concerts and festivals.

  • Service to others.

  • Soccer/football matches in the spirit of peace.

  • Feasts for peace.

  • Yoga.

  • Writing peace poetry.

  • Marches, parades and flag hoisting ceremonies.

  • Engaging youths in peace-building activities.

  • Public programs with government officials.

  • Vigils.

International Day of Peace 2019 Theme

International Day of Peace 2019's theme was 'Climate Action for Peace.' The theme focused on the need to combat climate change to protect and promote peace across the world. As per the United Nations, climate change causes explicit threats to international peace and security.

Millions of people were forced to leave their homes and seek safety due to natural disasters. Food security was also hampered by the salinization of water and crops, which, on the other hand, affect public health if we need to achieve peace. It was necessary to take action to combat climate change.

International Day of Peace 2020 Theme: Shaping Peace Together

This year, it has been more apparent than ever that we are not each other’s enemies. Instead, our common enemy is an active virus that threatens our health, security, and the usual way of life. COVID-19 has thrown our world into convulsion and forcibly reminded us that what happens in one part of the planet can impact people everywhere.

As we all struggle to defeat COVID-19, your voice is more significant than ever. In these challenging times of physical distancing, this International Day of Peace will be dedicated to upbringing dialogue and collecting ideas. Worldwide, people will be invited to unite and share thoughts on weathering this storm, healing our planet, and changing it for the better. Even though we may not be able to stand next to each other, we can still dream together.

The theme for the International Day of Peace 2020 is “Shaping Peace Together.” It is aimed at celebrating the day by spreading compassion, kindness, and hope in the face of this global pandemic. Also, to stand together with the UN against attempts to use the virus to promote discrimination or hatred

International Day of Peace 2021 Theme: Recovering Better For An Equitable And Sustainable World

The International Day of Peace 2021 Theme is "Recovering Better For An Equitable And Sustainable World". Each year the international day of peace is observed around the world on September 21. The united nation general assembly has declared this as the day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace and through observing the 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire. 

Due to healing from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are inspired to think creatively and collectively about how to help all recover better, how to build resilience, and how to transform our world to more equal, more just, equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and healthier.

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International Day of Peace - FAQs

1. Why was the International Day of Peace organized?

International Day of Peace also known as World Peace Day aims at strengthening the ideals of peace, both within all nations and people across the world.

2. What was the 2019 theme for the International Day of Peace?

International Day of Peace 2019's theme was 'Climate Action for Peace.' The theme focused on the need to combat climate change to protect and promote peace across the world.

3. What was the 2020 theme for the International Day of Peace?

The theme for the International Day of Peace 2020 is “Shaping Peace Together.” It is aimed at celebrating the day by spreading compassion, kindness, and hope in the face of this global pandemic.

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