International Day of Peace 2023: Date, History, Significance, Theme, Purpose

Every year, on September 21st, the world unites to celebrate International Peace Day. This day serves as a global reminder of the importance of peace and the value of non-violence. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981, International Peace Day has since become an annual observance dedicated to promoting peace across borders.

2 things you need to know

• International Peace Day is celebrated to promote harmony and unity globally.
• The theme of this year is Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for GlobalGoals.

International Peace Day 2023: Date

Mark your calendars because International Peace Day 2023 will be celebrated on September 21, 2023.

International Peace Day 2023: Theme

The theme for International Peace Day 2023 is "Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals." This theme issues a powerful call to action, urging individuals and nations alike to take tangible steps towards promoting peace. It emphasises the interconnectedness of peace with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting that peace is a fundamental prerequisite for achieving all 17 SDGs.

Happy International #PeaceDay! ✌🏿✌🏽✌🏼

Today, and every day, we call for collective action for sustainable peace and celebrate the millions of people, peacekeepers and community members who strive towards peace together. 🕊 #PeaceBegins #UNGA #PK75 pic.twitter.com/eYcUSpG3f8

— UN Peacekeeping (@UNPeacekeeping) September 20, 2023

International Peace Day 2023: History

The history of International Peace Day traces its origins to 1981 when the United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 36/67, designating the third Tuesday of September each year as the International Day of Peace. The inaugural celebration occurred on September 21, 1982.

In 2001, a significant milestone was reached when the United Nations General Assembly declared September 21st as the permanent date for International Peace Day. Additionally, member states were urged to observe a 24-hour ceasefire on this day, further emphasising the significance of global peace.

International Peace Day 2023: Significance

International Peace Day holds immense significance as it provides an opportunity for people worldwide to reflect on the importance of peace and take affirmative action towards its promotion. Peace is not merely a lofty ideal but a cornerstone of human development, well-being, and sustainable economic growth.

On this day, individuals across the globe come together to celebrate peace and reiterate their commitment to non-violence. It's a day to educate, engage, and empower people to work towards a harmonious world.

How to celebrate International Peace Day 2023

Here are some inspiring ideas for commemorating International Peace Day 2023:

Organise a Peace Walk or Rally

Raise awareness and show your support for non-violence by planning or joining a peace-themed event.

Host a Peace-building Event

Arrange workshops on conflict resolution or peaceful dialogue, or simply gather friends and family for a potluck dinner with discussions about peace.

Volunteer for Peace

Contribute your time and skills to peace-building organisations, whether it's tutoring children in underserved communities or mediating conflicts.

Educate About Peace

Share the importance of peace by giving presentations at schools or workplaces, or engaging in conversations with friends and family.

Reflect on Peace

Take a moment to contemplate what peace means to you and how you can promote it in your life and community.

International Peace Day is a universal celebration, a reminder that peace is a shared responsibility. By taking meaningful steps towards peace, we can collectively create a brighter and more peaceful future for ourselves and generations to come.