By Florence Okpeti
As the world marks the International Day of Peace, the United Nations has renewed calls for dialogue, tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence amid conflicts and rising social tensions across different parts of the world.
The International Day of Peace, observed annually on Sept. 21, was established by the United Nations to promote the ideals of peace and encourage global efforts towards ending conflict and violence.
The observance provides an opportunity to reflect on the human cost of wars and violence while highlighting the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding.
Peace, however, goes beyond the absence of war. It also entails building societies where people can live with dignity, access basic services, exercise their rights and resolve differences without violence.
In conflict-affected communities, women, children and other vulnerable groups often bear a disproportionate share of the consequences, including displacement, loss of livelihoods and limited access to education and healthcare.
The International Day of Peace also underscores the role individuals can play in promoting peaceful communities. Acts of tolerance, respect, kindness and constructive dialogue can help ease tensions and strengthen relationships.
Schools, religious organisations, community leaders and civil society groups also have important roles to play by promoting respectful communication, tolerance of differences and non-violent approaches to conflict resolution.
The observance further highlights the need for sustained commitment from governments, institutions and citizens to build lasting peace. Addressing poverty, inequality, discrimination and other underlying sources of tension can contribute to more stable and peaceful societies.
As countries commemorate the day, the call for peace remains centred on dialogue, understanding and collective action towards building communities and societies where differences can be resolved peacefully.
Florence Okpeti is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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