On 21 September, Saint Lucia joins the rest of the world in observance of International Day of Peace. Established in 1981 by the unanimous United Nations resolution, International day of Peace provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace. The United Nation’s General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace through observing 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire.

The 2024 theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” draws inspiration from UNESCO's foundational belief that “since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed”. The ideas of peace, the culture of peace, need to be cultivated in the minds of children and communities through formal and informal education, across countries and generations. Cultivating a culture of peace means replacing division, disempowerment, and despair with justice, equality and hope for all.

The International Day of Peace has always been a time to lay down weapons and observe ceasefires, but now, it must also be a time for people to see each other’s humanity. Our survival as a global community depends on that.

As we observe this international day, let’s reflect on the words of Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO "Being responsible for peace means acting to overcome the flaws and injustices which continue to prevent us from achieving an egalitarian world. Because a planet eroded by division is a planet which knows no peace."