UN’s message for International Day of Peace

UN: “Peace is our mission, our daily search”, is the theme of this year’s International Day of Peace” observed on Wednesday (21 Sept.) A message for the day was released earlier on Tuesday by United Nation’s Secretary General. In the message Ban Ki Moon said that every year on International Day of Peace, people all over the world, who are committed to the cause of non-violence, seek to achieve harmony between all peoples and nations. Stating that this year's theme focuses on topical issues of peace and democracy, Ban said that “Democracy is a central value of the United Nations. It is crucial for human rights and provides ways to resolve differences. It gives hope to the marginalized and power to the people. Democracy, however, does not materialize by itself; it must be nurtured and defended,” he added. Ban’s message stressed that the world needs all people to manifest themselves in favour of social justice, the freedom of the press, a clean environment, women's empowerment, the rule of law and the right to shape their own future.
Noting that this year - young people were in the front line for the cause of freedom, Ban’s message said “I pay tribute to activists and ordinary people for their courage and determination to build a better future. We, at the United Nations, will work in common cause to realize your aspirations for dignity, security and opportunity for all. To all those seeking peace, this is your day and we at the United Nations are with you,” concluded Ban’s message:
The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by a resolution of the UN General Assembly to coincide with its opening session. The first Peace Day was observed in September, 1982.