International Day of Peace: Together for Peace, Respect, Safety, and Dignity for All

Every year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on the September 21. The General Assembly of the United Nations has declared this a day devoted to peace and cease fire within and among all nations and peoples. This year’s theme is “Together for Peace: Respect, Safety, and Dignity for All.” The theme was designated to honor the spirit of TOGETHER, a global initiative that promotes respect, safety, and dignity for refugee forced to flee their homes and everyone leaving in search for a better life.

TOGETHER unites the organizations of the United Nations and its 19 Member States, the private sector, academic institutions, civil society, and individual citizens in a worldwide partnership of diversity, non discrimination and acceptance of refugees and migrants.

“In times of insecurity, communities that look different become convenient scapegoats,” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. “We must resist cynical efforts to divide communities and portray neighbors as ‘the other’. Discrimination diminishes us all. It prevents people — and societies — from achieving their full potential.” He added, “Together, let us stand up against bigotry and for human rights. Together, let us build bridges. Together, let us transform fear into hope.”

The International Day of Peace primary focus this year has been engaging and mobilizing people throughout the world to show support for refuges and migrants. The message has been shared to communities hosting refugees and migrants as well as people and communities concerned that refugees and migrants may bring harm or physical and economic insecurity to their lives. The International Day of Peace highlights solidarity with refugees and migrants and showcases the benefits of opening up communities and nations to migration and the possible economic growth. Also the Day is aimed at acknowledging legitimate concerns of host communities, ultimately the day is about bring people TOGETHER and reminding them of the common good of humanity. Peace is the right and desire of all people. TOGETHER let’s bring more peace and acceptance into our lives and communities.