Every year, September 21st is celebrated around the world as the United Nations International Day of Peace. This year, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has stressed the importance of disarmament, and chapters of the Universal Peace Federation have been holding programs to promote this and other important peace goals. Of course, peace is not something that happens “out there” as a process led by international institutions and organizations. UPF recognizes the greater importance of a change in the human heart and mind, reflecting the insight of the UN’s second Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjöld, that “without a spiritual rebirth, civilization is doomed.” On this day, let us all pause to reflect how we can make a personal and direct contribution to peace.

More on the International Day of Peace

New York, NY - UPF brought a delegation of 25 students from high schools and universities in the New York City area to join hundreds of students assembled from around the world at the United Nations and via telecast in observance of the International Day of Peace.

New York, USA - Young leaders from around the globe spent three days focusing on some of the world’s most demanding problems, ranging from world hunger to protecting the environment. About 700 people from 50 countries took part in the sixth Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations August 5-7, 2009.

New York, United States - The UN General Assembly met in New York June 24-26 to discuss the world financial and economic crisis and its impact on development. But the wealthiest nations stayed away in droves, leaving the poorer nations to plead their case largely alone. UPF supports the UN’s call for a new era of fiscal responsibility, but it is equally important for the world body — and all governments — to reflect on the root causes of the world’s financial and economic crisis and to address the underlying ethical issues.