International Peace Day 21st September

"Let us all work together to help all human beings achieve dignity and equality; to build a greener planet; and to make sure no one is left behind."  UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon Ban Ki-moon rings the Peace Bell at the annual peace ceremony which is held at the UN headquarters on the International Day of Peace.

Each year people all around the world celebrate the International Day of Peace on 21 September. The United Nations General Assembly has declared this as a day that is devoted to bringing about peace within and among all nations and peoples. The United Nations was created in 1945. It was created after the Second World War to help keep peace in the future. There are now 193 nations who meet and discuss ways to keep peace and look after the earth.

The theme for 2016 is Sustainable Development and “Building Blocks for Peace.” The aim of the General Assembly is to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure everyone has enough money to live. Young people around the world make videos to explain how they think the world can become more sustainable and how we can successfully meet the goals the United Nations has set..

What does “sustainable” mean? The ability to sustain (carry on), taking the environment, people and economy into account, minimising the impact of our actions and maintaining things at a steady level without exhaustion.

The dove is a symbol that represents hope for peace. Sustainability means that answers need to be found to stop poverty and hunger, finding ways of preserving natural resources and using less water, protecting the environment and reducing diseases. Sustainability means stopping social inequality, stopping corruption and racism. The dove is a symbol that represents hope for peace.

Promote Sustainable Development Grace is a farmer in Kenya who has planted trees to help reduce climate change.

Protect Human Rights These children from Afghanistan are cheering for a campaign which is asking for free education for everyone.

Uphold International Law The International Court of Justice meets to keep the peace between different nations.

Deliver Humanitarian Aid The World Food Programme works hard to try to make sure that people who need food are given it.

Wear a symbol of peace for the day (a dove) Write a poem about peace Pray for peace, or reflect on what a peaceful world would be like Join in a minute of silence at 12:00 noon Organise a peace parade Hold a debate about sustainability Make posters to advertise the International Day of Peace Plan an assembly for your school to explain what the International Day of Peace means Design and make a peace garden – it can be simply made with poles and rocks