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Arab and Middle Eastern States: International Day of Peace

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION .

A survey by CPNN

The following 23 actions in 13 Arab and Middle Eastern countries were listed in Google during the week of September 17-28 this year under the key words “International day of peace” “peace day”, “journee internationale de la paix” and اليوم الدولي للسلام .


Djibouti

Here are excerpts from the articles.

BAHRAIN

In celebration of the United Nations International Day of Peace, the organization “this is Bahrain” launched its annual event under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” at the Cultural Hall in Manama. . . The evening’s performances, which included contributions from various cultural groups, reflected Bahrain’s thriving culture of peace. Participants included Father Richard Fermer, Dean of Saint Christopher’s Cathedral, the YMCA Choir and the Al Hidd Fajeiri Band, The ISKON Community and The Ghana Community Group.

DJIBOUTI

Like countries around the world, the Republic of Djibouti celebrated the International Day of Peace on Saturday, September 21. Under the theme “Cultivating Peace”, the event jointly organized by the UNESCO branch under our skies, the National Agency for the Promotion of Culture (ANPC), UNDP and the DERE Institute, served as a platform for collective reflection and commitment to peace. . . The ceremony was held in the auditorium of the National Library. It brought together experts, diplomats, young people and cultural actors to discuss various topics related to the theme proposed this year, including conflict resolution mechanisms and the contribution of women and young people to preserving peace. . . The activities dedicated to this day ended with a concert entitled “Cultivating Peace”, bringing together local and international artists. A strong emotional moment was the presentation of the song “Sing Peace”, specially composed for the occasion by national artists.

EGYPT, CAIRO COPTIC MUSEUM

The Coptic Museum administration announced the display of a unique artifact on the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Peace. The artifact is a lamp in the shape of a dove, which symbolizes peace, and has a chain for hanging, made of bronze and dating back to the Byzantine era.

EGYPT, CAIRO LIBRARY

The Greater Cairo Library, headed by writer Yehia Riad Youssef, is organizing a celebration on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, at 4 pm next Thursday, September 19, in cooperation with the activities of the “I am from this country” cultural salon, under the patronage of Dr. Ahmed Heno, Minister of Culture, and the supervision of director Khaled Galal, Head of the Cultural Production Affairs Sector. The celebration will be hosted by: Major General Hamdi Bakhit, Major General Ahmed Wanis, and Major General Dr. Mahmoud Khalifa, and the evening will be managed by Dr. Fawzia Mohamed.

EGYPT, CAIRO RADIO

Egypt’s Radio Cairo International Presents Special International Day of Peace Talk by Amal El Disuki, Friday September 20, 2024

EGYPT, HELIOPOLIS

Dr. Nabil Helmy, Chairman of the Heliopolis Association, announced the opening of an exhibition entitled “Culture of Peace” at 12 am today, Saturday, at the Heliopolis Library, one of the association’s cultural platforms, with the participation of 15 artists from different age groups. . The Future Library, one of the association’s cultural platforms, will organize a symposium entitled (Internal and External Peace and its Relationship to the Mental Health of Individuals and Peoples) at 6 pm next Thursday, September 26, on the occasion of the International Day of Peace. . .
The symposium will address the meaning of peace, the importance of peace for individuals and societies, the relationship between peace and mental health, and practical steps to help individuals achieve psychological peace.

EGYPT, ISMAILIA

The Ismailia Culture Branch organized a number of cultural and artistic activities within the agenda of the General Authority for Culture Palaces, under the supervision of writer Mohamed Abdel Hafez Nasef, Vice President of the Authority, within the framework of the Ministry of Culture’s programs. In celebration of the International Day of Peace, Abu Suwayr Library organized a meeting to discuss the book “Peace of My Country” by Salwa Al-Anani.

EGYPT, MINYA

Today, Saturday, the Peacemakers Committee in Minya Governorate celebrated the International Day of Peace, which falls on September 21 of each year, under the slogan “Blessed are the Peacemakers.” Father Paul Nassif, of the Catholic Diocese of Minya, says that the Peacemakers Committee calls on everyone to spread the culture of tolerance, peace, acceptance of others, instilling good values and noble morals, and rejecting hatred, violence, and extremism. . . Sheikh Gamal Abdel Hamid Ibrahim, a scholar of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and a member of the Peacemakers Committee, stressed that national unity is the most prominent pillar of patriotism . . The members of the Peacemakers in Minya called on all officials, religious opinion leaders, thinkers, writers and intellectuals to unite efforts to instill the values of tolerance and coexistence and to reject hatred, fanaticism and terrorism.

IRAQ

Iraqi young men and women sent a message on the International Day of Peace, as part of the “Peace Against War” photography workshop established by the United Nations Development Program. Asia, Abdulrahman, Ayat, Nour Eldin, Zaid, Hawra, and other young men and women from Anbar, Diyala, Salah Al-Din, Nineveh, and Kirkuk came together to send a message on the International Day of Peace. These groups are present in five areas in Iraq that were liberated from ISIS invasion: Anbar, Diyala, Salah al-Din, Nineveh and Kirkuk, according to a UN report. Funded by the governments of Denmark, Canada and Germany, members of these groups work together to solve problems related to peace, help people reintegrate into their communities, and even extend their work to solutions to address climate change. . . The UN report quotes Asia Salam from Diyala as saying, “Through photography, drawing, or speaking, we seek to build dialogue with each other. Openness and empathy are key to understanding our differences and creating peaceful societies.” Nour Al-Hamdani from Anbar explains, “60% of our country is made up of young people. Without our active participation, we have no future. We, the youth, are the driving force for change, and our creativity is the key to a more peaceful world.”

ISRAEL

On Saturday Sep 21, International Day of Peace, the Plum Village sangha in Jerusalem will be offering a Peace Walk at 5pm local time. We invite you to send the energy of peace and healing to Israel and Palestine at the same time. You’re also welcome to join a simultaneous session of sitting meditation, chanting and walking meditation led by Blue Cliff Monastery online.

MOROCCO, MARAKECH

Video of celebration of International Day of Peace by children of Planete Montessori School, Marrakech

MOROCCO, RABAT

Rabat – The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) called on Friday the international community to adopt innovative strategies and pool efforts to promote the culture of peace. In a statement on the occasion of the International Day of Peace (21 September), which this year is themed “Let us cultivate a culture of peace”, ICESCO calls for more coordinated efforts to guide, cultivate and promote the culture of peace in order to make societies more resilient and prosperous in the face of growing challenges to peace and security, as well as environmental, economic and social crises affecting a number of countries around the world.

Question for this article

What has happened this year (2024) for the International Day of Peace?


Syria, Manbig Canton

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QATAR

Doha, QNA/ On Tuesday, the Shura Council participated in a parliamentary event organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) via videoconference. The event, themed “Peace and Democracy: Can Ballot Boxes Replace Bullets?”, marked the International Day of Democracy (15 September) and the International Day of Peace (21 September).

SAUDI ARABIA

The Intellectual Awareness Department of the General Administration of Education in Taif Governorate organized a remote seminar entitled (Safety is a Value and Behavior) as part of the activities celebrating the International Day of Peace.  The symposium included a number of topics, peace is the greeting of Islam, the role of education in achieving peace, messengers of peace from the Kingdom of Islam, stories about peace inspired by prophecy and building peace in the future, and a poem entitled the Kingdom is the source of peace. . . For its part, schools activated this event with many activities and events targeting students and their staff.

SOMALIA

UN University for Peace Celebrates International Day, Pledges to Provide Inspiring Education for Future Generations. On this occasion, Professor Samuel Ewusi, Regional Director of the University for Peace in Africa, said: “If the United Nations University for Peace should be anywhere, it should be in Somalia.” . . Since its establishment in Mogadishu in 2018, the University of Peace in Somalia has graduated over 250 students, increasing the capacity of Somali leadership to define and develop a culture of peace. . . At the recent graduation ceremony at the University for Peace, the head of the UN mission in SOMALIA commented: “This is the only educational institution with an exclusive mandate to deliver peace education, and it is of particular importance here in Somalia.”

SYRIA, MANBIJ CANTON

The Syrian Women’s Council in Manbij Canton organized a dialogue seminar on the International Day of Peace, in which members of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of Manbij Canton, political parties, and independent women’s figures participated, in the hall of the Muhammad Manla Ghazil Library in the center of Manbij city. The symposium began with a minute of silence, then the spokesperson for the Syrian Women’s Office in Manbij Canton, Maryam Hayani, explained the concept of international peace and the urgent need for it, especially in light of the conflicts the world is witnessing between international powers that seek their interests by igniting conflicts between peoples. Then the floor was opened for discussion in front of the attendees, who stressed the necessity of resolving the Syrian crisis, establishing peace there, and liberating the occupied territories.

SYRIA, NORTHEAST

The Confederation of Democratic Society Organizations in Northeast Syria issued a written statement on the occasion of International Peace Day.vThe statement stressed: “We call on all international civil society organizations and human rights institutions to fulfill their duty to support sustainable peace-building efforts in Syria and to cooperate to spread a culture of dialogue instead of violence and discrimination. We see differences as a source of diversity, not as a tool to spread values or to fuel wars. Respect for diversity and acceptance of others is the key to building a strong society based on justice and equality. We therefore call on all peoples of the world to use this day as an opportunity to rethink the need for peace as the only way to resolve the crisis.

TURKEY, ANKARA

The International Day of Peace was observed at Botanik Park in Ankara with a Peace Bell Ringing Ceremony organized by Turkish Japanese Foundation and UN Türkiye. The ceremony was attended by members of diplomatic community, academia, civil society and UN Türkiye staff. Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, the UN Resident Coordinator in Türkiye, emphasized this year’s theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” . . Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emin Özdamar echoed these sentiments, recalling the painful legacy of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki nearly 80 years ago. . . The ceremony concluded with the ringing of the Peace Bell, a powerful symbol of hope and a call to action for peace, reminding all present of the responsibility to foster a culture of peace in their communities and the world.

TURKEY, IZMAR

On Saturday, the western Turkish city of Izmir witnessed a march in solidarity with the Palestinian people, on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, which falls on September 21. Dozens of demonstrators gathered in Konak Square, where some protesters wore costumes and masks symbolizing different cultures. The demonstrators carried lanterns and walked to the nearby Republic Square, chanting various slogans while playing many musical instruments and beating drums.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, DUBAI

The Sustainable Humanitarian Organization DIHAD organized a humanitarian campaign that included several activities on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, in cooperation with Index Media and the International School of Creative Science. . . 
A group of Emirati students shared their vision of peace with the world, with the aim of promoting the values of tolerance and love among all people on earth by creating artistic paintings that express their concept of peace, using colors to convey their messages to the world.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR

The Ministry of Interior, represented by its Human Rights Department, in collaboration with the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law, marked the “International Day of Peace” by hosting a virtual workshop. . . In his opening remarks, Brigadier Mohammed Ali Al Shehhi, Director of the Human Rights Department, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to participating in global events, particularly those centered on humanitarian values and the promotion of peace and tolerance. . . Major Dr. Hamad Al Shamili, an accredited lecturer by the International Committee of the Red Cross, elaborated on the concept of world peace and its noble goals. He discussed the protection of civilians and peaceful societies under international law, emphasizing the restriction of hostile actions.


UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, SHARJAH

Sharjah Girls Chess and Culture Club organized the International Peace Day event for the club’s players aged 5 to 12 years, in cooperation with the Sharjah Social Services Department, at the club’s headquarters, in which a large number of players participated. . . Najla Al Shamsi, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the club, confirmed that the event coincides with the International Day of Peace, “Through the event, we wanted to consolidate the meaning and values of peace for all generations of our society,

YEMEN, AMIDEAST

On the International Day of Peace, celebrated on September 21, AMIDEAST-Aden organized a dialogue session today, Sunday, September 22, that brought together seven young men and seven women from the EASP program to discuss the topic of “Peacemaking” from the perspective of women and youth. . . The session included presentations about the International Day of Peace and an extensive explanation of Resolution 1325, stressing the need to implement these resolutions on the ground to enhance the role of women and youth in achieving sustainable peace.

YEMEN, PEACE PATH FOUNDATION

An event was held on the occasion of the “International Peace Day”, implemented by the Peace Path Foundation under the slogan (Peace for All of Us) and with the participation of elite female cadres, which lasted for only one day, and members of the Women’s Solidarity Network in  Aden Governorate . The event was opened via Zoom with a speech by the Country Director of the Peace Path Initiative Foundation – Lawyer / Afraa Al-Hariri, “in which she congratulated all attendees on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, which falls in September of each year… wishing that security, safety, peace and prosperity would prevail in all parts of the country through the combined efforts of everyone, regardless of their affiliation and spectrum, and to come out with a beautiful vision for a bright tomorrow with peace. . . The event concluded with an interactive dialogue, and the most important issues discussed revolved around the status of women and the importance of reflecting their priorities and needs in the Beijing Report, advocacy plans and how to develop them, challenges, difficulties, and proposals for analyzing the context, identifying advocacy groups, and taking into account the targets, influencers, and decision-makers.

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, Mideast

Africa: International Day of Peace

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION .
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A survey by CPNN

The following 43 actions in 26 African countries include those listed in Google during the weeks of September 16-28 this year under the key words “International day of peace” and “Journée internationale de la paix.” The events also include some listed on the facebook page for the International Cities of Peace and the website of Campaign Nonviolence.

For events in North Africa see the page of actions in the Arab States .


Ghana, Tokoradi

Here are excerpts from the articles.

AFRICAN YOUTH

On the International Day of Peace, Deutsch Welle asked young men and women in countries across Africa — from Ethiopia to Nigeria, Congo, Mozambique and Sudan — about what peace means to them.

AFRICAN UNION

Statement by H.E. Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security on the Occasion of the Commemoration of the 2024 International Day of Peace, 21 September 2024. Today, as we commemorate the International Day of Peace, the African Union (AU) reaffirms its commitment to advancing peace, security and stability in Africa.  Particularly so when this year’s event is also being celebrated against the drop of intractable terrorism, insurgency and armed conflicts where in some cases, the concept of protection of civilians is collapsing and genocide is either real or looming, driven by injustice, intolerance, exclusion, poverty, inequality, constitutional governance and climate change challenges. And these serve as  grave threats to Africa and indeed global, stability, peace and prosperity. 

This year’s Peace Day theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”, is therefore a timely reminder for the AU and its regional economic communities and mechanisms (RECs/RMs), civil society and the private sector as well as our bilateral and multilateral partners, to scale up our individual and collective efforts in holistic peacebuilding approaches.  It calls for cross-sectoral responses to the conflict and post-conflict situations in the Horn of Africa, the Lake Chad Basin, the Sahel and the Great Lakes regions, among others, and which must  inclusive, owned by the affected communities and jointly supported with adequate and predictable regional, continental and international support. . . In promoting a culture of peace, the Biennale of Luanda, the Pan-African Forum for the Culture of Peace, has become a crucial platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation among African leaders, civil society, and the international community, while emphasizing education, youth empowerment, and intergenerational dialogue. 

BENIN

Let’s walk in peace to build a prosperous and ppl Benin. This is the theme dedicated to the celebration of the International Day of Peace which will take place on September 21. As a prelude to this day, the organizers proceeded this Friday, August 30, 2024 in the capital city, to the launch of the activities. It is through a march on the road to peace going from the Charles de Gaulle stadium to the prefecture of Ouémé…

BURKINA FASO

International Day of Peace: The Ministry of Justice calls for a return to endogenous values ​​for the construction of a Burkina Faso of peace and tolerance through a public conference  (Video of celebration)

BURUNDI

The Interfaith Council of Burundi (CICB) and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) organized, this September 13, 2024, a press conference on the International Day of Peace. Starting this September 16, 2024, the entire week will be dedicated to peace and a series of activities are planned so that this day of celebration finds the Burundian people in the bath of peace consolidation. “Peace is the pillar of development, and that is why we must preserve it, strengthen it and transmit it to our descendants, so that it can continue to be cultivated even in future generations ,” said Monsignor Joachim Ntahondereye, president of the Interfaith Council of Burundi (CICB) during the press conference.

CAMEROUN, NDOM

In Cameroon, the International Day of Peace was commemorated with a peace march in the town of Ndom, Littoral region. The march was initiated by Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom Cameroon and its partner organisations, including the Cameroonian section of World Beyond War, as part of the series of activities of the Women’s Call for Peace Week. In addition to this march, sports activities and trainings were held in other towns in the country.

CAMEROUN, YAOUNDE

The International Day of Peace was particularly marked at the Ministry of Higher Education , during a special flag-raising ceremony, chaired by the head of this ministerial department, Professor Jacques Fame Ndongo. During this ceremony, the member of the Government raised a symbolic tree of peace, thus recalling the values ​​of serenity and solidarity that were once dear to the Cameroonian people. A gesture that takes on a particular meaning in a country where peace seems to have become an increasingly distant ideal.

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, Radio Ndeke Luka offers you the “Peace File” of its 1 p.m. news on September 21. . . . Musician Hervé Chetani announces a concert on the occasion of the International Day of Peace. The event is set for September 21, 2024 in Bangui. Hervé Chetani was the guest of the 100% Musique program on Radio Ndeke Luka on Saturday, September 14.

CHAD

The Mediation of the Republic of Chad, in partnership with the United Nations system, celebrated the International Day of Peace within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ceremony, chaired by Mr. Saleh KEBZABO, Mediator of the Republic, was also attended by Dr. François Batalingaya, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations system and Humanitarian Coordinator in Chad, as well as other personalities. The event opened with a passionate speech by Mr. KEBZABO, who stressed the importance of strengthening peace and social cohesion for the well-being of all Chadians.

COMORES

The International Day of Peace was celebrated at the Mrodju Palace on Saturday, September 21, by the Governor of Ngazidja in the presence of the United Nations Coordinator. This event aims to promote a culture of peace through education and awareness-raising. The Governor, Mze Mohamed Ibrahim, stressed the importance of national unity, highlighting the peaceful heritage of Islam and coexistence. . . . Mohamed Soulaimane Azhar, executive director of the NGO Salam, proposed a collective approach to resolve these problems. He called for bringing together experts in social peace, the national police, the media and associative actors to discuss solutions and establish sustainable peace policies. This day emphasized the necessary collaboration between the authorities, associations and civil society to prevent and resolve conflicts.

COTE D’IVOIRE

Video from UN Women Ivory Coast. On this International Day of Peace, the mediators share with us their vision of a peaceful world.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, GOMA AND KINSHASA

Art to highlight and celebrate peace. This is the ambition of the murals that will be created in Kinshasa and Goma on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, 2024 edition. In the capital of North Kivu, Didier Binyungu will propose an original creation.  The graffiti artist’s work, which will be 4.50 meters long and whose theme will be “Disinformation, a scourge that undermines peace”, will be created on the exterior wall of the Uruguayan battalion of MONUSCO, in Goma. . . Didier Binyungu embodies the idea that “Peace begins with me”. His artistic commitment, his passion for graffiti and his desire to raise awareness through art make him a valuable ambassador for peace in the DRC and beyond.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, RADIO OKAPI

On the sidelines of the International Day of Peace, celebrated on September 21 each year, Radio Okapi organized, on September 4 in Kinshasa, a public program “Okapi Service” around the issue of disinformation and the dangers it poses to peace. Among the guests, information experts, artists as well as youth and student associations. All this followed by an attentive and curious audience, on the theme: “Disinformation: a scourge that undermines peace”. . . Artists were also there, which begs the question: what about art in all this? For slam poet Yekima De Bel Art, art can help fight disinformation. Here he tells us how: “  Art is a force, a power. We are ambassadors of values, but we have to realize it. It is only through text, art, composition that we can invite people to cultivate the culture of peace.”

ETHIOPIA, ADDIS ABABA

The 2024 international day of peace celebrated today in Addis Ababa under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” The event brought together Heads of UN agencies in Ethiopia, representatives of civil society organizations, youth and women networks and other pertinent stakeholders.

ETHIOPIA, US EMBASSY

 U.S. Embassy Addis Ababa, Etoto Street: U.S. Government Celebrates the International Day of Peace with Dire Dawa Peace Walk

GABON

On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, the United Nations System organized, from September 21 to 22, a series of activities with the aim of educating young people on the notion of peace. The stadium of the national gendarmerie of the Gros-Bouquet camp, in the 1st district of Libreville, served as a setting for the said events intended for entertainment and leisure. On this occasion, children in difficulty (from several reception centers), women’s and youth associations… joined forces with other young people around the theme of this 10th edition, namely “the law”. The various agencies present took the opportunity to show and explain to the large audience what they do to contribute to a world without violence.

GAMBIA

The coordinator of theGambia chapter of World Beyond War gave an interview to Radio Paraiso Soninkara on youth participation in nation building. In particular, he praised the potential of Gambian youth and their willingness to face multiple challenges to make their voice heard and participate in peace processes.

GHANA

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has observed the International Day of Peace at 2 Garrison, Takoradi, on Tuesday, 24 September 2024. . . under the theme ‘Cultivating the Culture of Peace: GAF’s Contribution’. As part of activities to mark the first day of the celebration, military personnel and Defence Civilian Staff drawn from 2 Battalion of Infantry, Naval Base Sekondi and Air Force Base Takoradi embarked on a peace walk through some principal streets of Takoradi. The walk began at the Airforce Base Takoradi and ended at Air Force Recruit Training School where lectures and presentations were delivered by resource persons.

GUINEA-BISSAU

Prime Minister Rui Duarte Barros spoke at an event commemorating the International Day of Peace, which took place under the motto: “The importance of inter-religious dialogue in consolidating peace and preventing radicalism and violent extremism”, organized by the Government, the United Nations and the Peace Observatory. . ; He said that, as an attentive citizen and head of government in particular, he has followed the dynamics of rapprochement and sharing of vision among religious leaders on various issues in society facilitated by the Peace Observatory project. . . In Guinea-Bissau, celebrations of the International Day of Peace have been taking place since 16 September, with activities promoted by those responsible for the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) projects in the communities of Gabu, Biombo and Bissau.
In this context, on 21 September, the UN supported the organization of a series of events in Bissau, including: musical entertainment with the participation of artists, a campaign to promote understanding of the concept of peace among Guineans, with videos available on UN digital platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

GUINEA-BISSAU, INSTITUTE FOR THE CONSOLIDATION OF PEACE

Video of Ceremony commemorating the International Day of Peace, promoted by the Institute for the Consolidation of Peace “Voz di Paz”…

GUINEA-BISSAU, CONCERT

Video: The United Nations invites all Guineans to participate in a musical concert in celebration of the International Day of Peace under the motto “Cultivating the Culture of Peace” with Jovem Binham, Mimi Reis, Mimi Reis, Pensador, DJ Secov, Scro Guigui, Ganda G, DJ Júlio, Grandchildren of Amizade Kelelé.

Question for this article

What has happened this year (2024) for the International Day of Peace?


Tanzania, Zanzibar

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KENYA, KISUMU COUNTY

Kisumu County residents and leaders gathered at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex to commemorate the International Day of Peace, highlighting the importance of fostering a culture of peace for development. . . The event, organised by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), brought together representatives from both national and county governments, as well as NGOs such as TINADA Organisation, Social Justice Centre Working for Peace, Lead Initiative Kenya, Act, Kenya Female Advisory Organisation (KEFEADO), Pambazuko la Wanawake Magharibi, Kisumu Progressive Youth, Nyalenda Young Turks, and The Free Pentecostal Fellowship in Kenya (FPFK) church, among others. Participants held a peace march from Kondele to the venue, planted tree seedlings, and engaged in mock sports activities to symbolise unity and mutual coexistence.

KENYA, MANDERA COUNTRY

Video of celebration of International Day of Peace dedicated to restoring peace across the region.

KENYA, NAIROBI: An invitation to all Sudanese men and women in Nairobi to celebrate the International Day of Peace, with our wishes to stop the war in Sudan and silence the ugly sound of the gun forever. A symposium and concert performed by voices calling for peace, peace artists Muhammad Adam Wad Abouh and Al-Abnoosa Fadwa

KENYA, TURKANA COUNTY

Preparations for this year’s International Day of Peace, set for September 21st, are in top gear at the Lokiriama Peace Monument, where Turkana County will host the commemorative event. . . The Deputy County Secretary in charge of Cabinet Affairs, Dr Albert Gamoe, outlined that this year’s celebrations will feature a peace-themed football tournament with eight teams, a night vigil at the monument, a cross-border peace dialogue, traditional dances, artistic performances, and speeches from leaders.
“Our goal is to foster an environment where local communities can strengthen peacebuilding efforts through meaningful dialogue and networking, while receiving messages on the importance of maintaining peaceful coexistence,” . . “We expect our Ateker communities from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia and Pokots to join us for the celebrations on the 21st, after which we will proceed to Lodwar for the grand Tobong’ulore festival,” he concluded.

KENYA, WAJIR COUNTY

The International Day of Peace 2024 was marked with celebrations in Diif, Wajir county, under the theme “Cultivating a Peaceful Culture.” The event was attended by Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow, Nominated MP Sulekha Harun, Garissa Women Representative Udgoon Siyad, and representatives from the Deris Wanaag umbrella, led by the Agency for Peace and Development (APiD). Security officials and peace leaders were also present during the event on September 21, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to maintain stability in the border town, which lies at the frontier of Kenya and Somalia.

LIBERIA

The President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has by proclamation declared Saturday, September 21, 2024 as International Day of Peace to be observed throughout the Republic as a Working Holiday. . . The proclamation urges all citizens, government ministries, autonomous agencies, civil society organizations and private businesses, schools and colleges, places of worship, individuals within the borders to join the New African Research and Development Agency (NARDA) to plan and implement appropriate programs befitting the occasion.

LIBERIA, BONG COUNTY

The Foundation for International Dignity (FIND) on September 21 joined the rest of the world to celebrate the International Day of Peace in David Dean Town, Kokoyah District#1, Bong County. . . The nongovernmental organization’s Executive Director, Mr. JuaKollie, said, “Today, FIND and its partners joined the rest of the world in recognition of the International Day of Peace through a grand parade and indoor program spreading messages of peace, and this day is being celebrated under the global theme: “Cultivating a culture of peace.” Grace Tulay, an 8th-grade student of the Tutu Memorial Preparatory School in David Dean Town, read the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Gutierres International Day of Peace message.

LIBERIA, MONROVIA

The Civil Peace Service Liberia (CPSL) recently marked the International Day of Peace with a vibrant and inspiring event in Monrovia. This year’s global theme, *“Cultivating the Culture of Peace,”* was locally adapted by CPSL under the subtheme, “Promoting a Society Free of Drugs and Substance Abuse through Effective Partnerships.”

MAURITIUS

On the International Day of Peace, the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Prithivirajsing Roopun, launched the booklet titled “Inter-Religious Dialogue within different religions” , at the State House, Réduit. This booklet highlights the importance of inter-religious dialogue to promote peace and respect in the multicultural society. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Council of Religions, including Father Phillipe Goupille, Allia Syed Hossen-Gooljar and other personalities.

MOZAMBIQUE

Today, on the International Day of Peace , we celebrate the tireless efforts of the Wiwanana Foundation in the conflict-affected areas of Cabo Delgado Province . Working in communities such as Soco and on the islands of Sito and Namau in the Metuge District , the Foundation has promoted the establishment of Peace Committees . These committees serve as a powerful social tool, bringing together community members to identify, discuss and prevent conflicts. Through dialogue and cooperation, Peace Committees help build collective and sustainable solutions to the challenges communities face, creating a safer and more harmonious environment.

NIGER

9th edition of the celebration of the International Day of Peace by the High Authority for the Consolidation of Peace (HACP) with the theme to promote a culture of peace. General Stadium, Saturday 21 September (video of the celbration).

NIGERIA

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has joined the rest of the world to mark the International Day of Peace. Speaking during a symposium, which is part of the activities to mark the day, with the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” the FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu said “Peace is not merely the absence of war; it is a way of life. It is a conscious choice to resolve conflict through dialogue, empathy and understanding.” . . The one-week long event began on Monday, 23rd September 2024 with Peace Walk from the Command Headquarters at Wuse, Zone 5, Abuja has activities lined up which include a symposium, media parley, peace seminars in secondary schools in the six (6) Area Councils of the FCT.

NIGERIA, ABUJA

The International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) has marked this year’s International Day of Peace in Abuja with the call on the international community to embrace peace. Speaking at the event, the representative of OIF, Madame Tran Thi Hoang Mai, said every human irrespective of colour and beliefs must embrace peace and make the world a better place to live. . . The host of the event, Dr Dele Babade, in his remarks, said the world need the tripod stand of peace, love, and unity which he described are essential in building blocks of a strong community.

NIGERIA, KADUNA STATE

The Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Kaduna State Command, Nuhu Muhammadu has advised residents of Kaduna State to live in peace with one another. The Commandant made the call during the commemoration of International Day of Peace with the theme, ‘Cultivating the Culture of Peace,’ held at the Kaduna State University on Saturday.

SENEGAL

The Senegal Chapter of World Beyond War organized a special webinar on the theme “Promoting a culture of peace through youth” . . that explored innovative strategies to engage youth in peacebuilding, the importance of youth leadership in conflict prevention, and how to transform global challenges into local opportunities for peace.September 21 was also the first anniversary of the chapter, as it was launched last year during the International Day of Peace in Ziguinchor on September 21, 2023.

SOUTH AFRICA

Video of Montessori school children in Hatfield singing for peace in coordination with Montessori schools around the world.

SOUTH SUDAN

The cultural diversity of South Sudan was on show through the vibrant and energetic performances of multiple ethnic groups at an International Peace Day event in Juba . . Nineteen-year-old performer, Everlyne Batista, described her participation as an opportunity to put the trauma of conflict behind her and embrace feelings of unity and hope.  
“With peace, I can go to school, I can live without the stress I had before, including losing my relatives. . . Politics dominated discussions among the country’s leaders, civil society, and international peace partners at the event, particularly the extension of the transitional period of the government and postponement of elections for further two years. . . Acting Minister of Peacebuilding, Losuba Wongo, acknowledged the collective responsibility for peace.
“Every individual has a role to play in nurturing peace in our communities and our hearts. Every act of kindness, every effort to understand each other and every dialogue brings us closer to lasting peace,” he said. “We have endured too much hardship, displacement and loss of life, yet amongst those challenges, we have demonstrated incredible strength and unity. Peace is not merely a dream; it can be achieved together”

TANZANIA, DAR ES SALAAM

Vice President Dr Philip Mpango is expected to lead over 2,000 participants, including diplomats and religious leaders, in a major symposium marking the International Day of Peace. The event, organized by the Chairman of the Religious Committee on Peace and Reconciliation, will be held at Karimjee grounds in Dar es Salaam.

TANZANIA, ZANZIBAR

Zanzibar Community in the Transition towards a Culture of Peace in the XXI Century (see photo above and article here.)

TOGO

The coordinator of the Togo chapter of World Beyond War organised two activities, on the culture of peace and the mobilisation of members for the good functioning of the chapter. The first activity At the second meeting, the children committed themselves to peace, dialogue and non-violence and reflected on what they can do to spread peace. At the second, the members discussed the theme “PEACE IN ITSELF! NO TO WAR!”. On the same occasion, the chapter held its general assembly.

TOGO, LOMÉ

This year’s International Day of Peace will be marked by a major event: the Pan-African Conference for Peace and Security (COPPS), which will be held on 21 September in the Togolese capital. Entitled “Peace in Africa: Myths or Reality?”, this conference aims to examine in depth the challenges and opportunities for establishing sustainable peace on the African continent. Organised by the international NGO Mouvement des Jeunes pour la Promotion de la Paix (MJPP) and supported by the Ministry of Territorial Administration, Decentralisation and Customary Chieftaincy of Togo, the COPPS will bring together political leaders, security experts, representatives of civil society, as well as young people and women. All these actors, committed to a more peaceful Africa, will discuss ways to strengthen the capacities of local communities to face crises and security threats.

UGANDA, KAMPALA: Salamedia Center and I Am Peace Campaign cordially invite you to attend the International Day of Peace event to be held at Salamedia Center – Kampala, on Saturday, September 21, 2024. The evening will include a dialogue seminar to talk about peace, and a singing performance to support peace. The event will be accompanied by an exhibition of paintings by the visual artist Nasreddin Al-Doma, celebrating peace and diversity in Sudan.

Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

For an Urgent change in Global Governance

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION .

An article by Federico Mayor Zaragoza* in Other News (translation by CPNN)

“No challenge is beyond the creative capacity of the human species.”
J. F. Kennedy, June 1963.

A turning point has arrived where situations of an irreversible nature have been reached. We must ensure that circumstances do not occur that inevitably require new solutions. And that despair does not spread. A citizenry that is aware of its equal dignity and capable of expressing itself that must, at last, put into practice the lucid Charter of the United Nations: “We, the peoples… have resolved to spare succeeding generations the horror of war.” War and other “horrors,” such as the deterioration of the environment and, therefore, of the habitability of planet Earth.

The urgent time has come to act, to move from being impassive spectators of what happens to being very diligent actors. Not one more day of “silent listeners.” It is time for action, not to be simple receivers of frequently biased information, but actors who participate, each in our own field, keeping in mind Burke’s maxim: “No one makes a greater mistake than he who does nothing because he thinks he could do only very little.” Every seed, without exception, is necessary. Every grain of sand. Every drop.

There are moments, very few, when suddenly change is possible. The radical change that is required can only be imagined as the result of a great global clamor of “We, the peoples”, finally capable, with a resolute attitude, of carrying out the transition from force to words, from imposition to joint reflection.

It is necessary and urgent that many voices be mobilized, aware that now – equal in dignity and capable of participating – we must act without further delay. Yes: now, for the first time in history, “We, the peoples…” can achieve the removal of the veto in the United Nations … and in the European Union, also disqualified from decision-making by the requirement of “unanimity”, the antithesis of democracy.

(Article continued in the column on the right)

(Click here for the original Spanish version of the article)

Questions related to this article:

Where in the world can we find good leadership today?

(Article continued from the column on the left)

It is imperative to address the great challenges on a global scale, before their solution is no longer possible. The major priorities of food, access to drinking water, quality health services, care for the environment, education, emigration… are challenges to which we must respond together.

Inventing the future. Through modern technology, the best expression of the voice of the people, of solidarity at a global level, can take place. Civil society now has, in addition to its undeniable leading role in solidarity aid, the possibility of making itself heard.

The human species yearns for, dreams of, a “new beginning”, where instead of preparing for war, it achieves peace by listening, understanding, uniting voices and efforts.

In 79 years (since 1945) it has NOT been possible to apply the UN Charter, to fulfill the will of “We, the peoples…”, always silenced by the veto, by plutocratic and supremacist governance. It was Eisenhower, the President of the United States, who had the courage, on January 20, 1961, to convey to his successor, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, and to the American people, that it was not the president who really ruled in America, but the “military-industrial complex.” From President Wilson’s creation of the League of Nations at the end of the First World War to Roosevelt’s founding of the United Nations, the opportunities for the transition of the power of the word have progressively faded. Now, as I continue to stress the time has come for “We, the peoples…”

And what must we do immediately, thinking of future generations? It is not a question of economic, political, social dispositions… It is, above all, a question of inventing a different future. In this regard, I will never forget what Professor Hans Krebs, Nobel Prize winner in Biochemistry, told me in his Oxford laboratory: “The solution is not in these sophisticated instruments, nor in the collection of data… The solution is to think what no one has thought before”… Yes: each human being, is unique and capable of creating, our hope.

Let us give wings to the human species so that, without vetoes, it may act democratically for the great transition from the force to the word.

The world is entering a new era. We have many things to preserve for the future and many others to change decisively. At last, the people. At last, the voice of the people. At last, citizen power. At last, the word and not the force. A culture of peace and never again a culture of war.

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*Federico Mayor Zaragoza (Barcelona, ​​1934) Doctor in Pharmacy from the Complutense University of Madrid (1958), has been a professor at different Spanish universities and has held numerous political positions, including that of Minister of Education and Science (1981-82). Between 1987 and 1999 he was Director General of UNESCO. He is currently President of the Foundation for a Culture of Peace.

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At the Fête de l’Huma, independent media in full swing

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An article by Juliette Quef in Vert.eco (translation by CPNN)

It’s urgent: in the face of the extreme right and the “bollorisation” of information, the ecosystem of “Indés” is joining forces by means of the Village of Independent Media at the Fête de l’Huma, the launch of a cooperative to finance them and a House of Free Media.

“It’s great that you’re here”, “it’s nice to see the independent media gathered together”: this weekend, La déferlante, Basta, Blast, Politis, Streetpress, Fakir, Reporterre, l’Age de Faire, Au poste, Mediapart, Socialter, Le média, Le chiffon, Reporters sans frontières, Acrimed, and of course Vert, were gathered under a huge 400 m² marquee, in the heart of the Fête de l’Huma, in Plessis-Pâté (Essonne). The 89th edition of the Fête attracted more than 450,000 participants in three days.

In the Village, at the center of the twenty or so stands, the conference space was filled with people and hosted rich discussions on sexist and sexual violence, freedom of the press and environmental mobilizations against the far right.


From September 13 to 15 at the Fête de l’Huma, the Village of Independent Media brought together around twenty media outlets. © Margot Desmons / Vert

Fight against the far right and the “bollorization” of the world

This first edition of the Independent Media Village at the Fête de l’Huma has its roots in the rallies against the far right, which were held on June 27 and July 3, Place de la République, in Paris. Organized in just a few days by the “Indés” and civil society, each of them brought together some 30,000 participants (our report).

“At that point, the priority was no longer our media but the event itself,” says Mathieu Molard, editor-in-chief of Streetpress, one of the initiators of the rallies. The unity of the organizers was very strong and we had the impression of having contributed, through these rallies and our investigations, to preventing the far right from gaining power.” With these links strengthened in the face of the emergency, the newspaper L’Humanité then offered to host the “Indés” at the Fête de l’Huma.

“The Independent Media Village was a huge success, we were always full,” rejoices Agnès Rousseaux, director of Politis. For me, it is a sign of a strong demand from the public for places where the press converges and an awareness on the part of the media that there is a need to strengthen and support each other. The Village gave us visibility that we would never have had on our own. Uniting allows us to increase our impact and our audience tenfold.”

(continued on right column)

(Click here for the French original of this article.)

Questions related to this article:

Free flow of information, How is it important for a culture of peace?

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Coop-media: financing the “Indés”, the nerve of the war

Faced with the rise of the extreme right, the actors of the social and solidarity economy (ESS) have also mobilized to accelerate their Coop-media project, a cooperative intended to finance independent media. Its launch is scheduled for October 9, at the Climate Academy, in Paris.

“Between ESS and independent media, we have the same challenges,” says Lucie Anizon, general secretary of Enercoop and one of the coordinators of Coop-media. We are facing behemoths and the alternatives are struggling.” The idea is to raise funds to participate in the financing of committed media that carry “humanist and progressive values ​​for a more ecological, united and democratic society.”

Starting October 9, citizens, media and businesses will be able to take shares in Coop-media and participate in the governance of the cooperative according to the principle of 1 person = 1 vote. The fundraising will then make it possible to open calls for projects from 2025.

“I discovered a very disunited ecosystem of independent media,” confides Lucie Anizon. In the cooperative community, we know how to organize ourselves and we know that solidarity is the key to resilience.”

The initiative that has been rather well received by information professionals. “We lack structures that come to finance our media,” notes Mathieu Molard. “Banks do not understand our economic models. For example, they think that donations are not reliable. We have difficulty finding money, even public money, to develop ourselves, and this forces us to turn to private patrons.”

A House of Free Media to Welcome Everyone

After ten years of effort and an aborted project, the Paris Council has now voted unanimously to sell a building located at 70 boulevard Barbès, in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, to the left-wing millionaire Olivier Legrain, patron of the independent press and several refugee aid associations, and to the Bellevilles real estate company, to create a House of Free Media.

With a surface area of ​​4,000 m², it should accommodate, from the end of 2026, the premises of dozens of independent media and their ecosystem, video studios, as well as a café-bookstore and coworking spaces. The goal: to contribute to the defense of freedom of the press and pluralism in the media. “We want to create an emblematic place for freedom of the press in Paris,” explains Agnès Rousseaux. A space of excitement and abundance to wage the cultural battle and experiment with new ways of producing and disseminating information.”

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Secretary-General’s remarks to the UN Peace Bell Ceremony

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An article from the United Nations

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
 
We come together today to sound the call for peace. 

Here at the United Nations, peace is our raison d’être, our guiding light, and our founding creed. 


Secretary-General António Guterres rings the Peace Bell during the ceremony in observance of the International Day of Peace. PHOTO:UN/Cia Pak

Yet peace is under threat.

War is on the march. 

From the Middle East, to Sudan, Ukraine, and beyond, we see bullets and bombs maim and kill; bodies piled high; populations traumatised; and buildings reduced to rubble.  

Meanwhile, the foundations of a peaceful world are fracturing. 

Geo-political divisions are widening. 

Inequalities are growing. 

Disinformation is fanning the flames of hate. 

New technologies are being weaponised with no guardrails. 

And the climate crisis is fuelling instability: depleting resources, and forcing people from their homes. 

International institutions must be better positioned to respond. 

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Question(s) related to this article:

What is happening this year (2024) for the International Day of Peace?

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And we have a chance for change. 

Later this month, at the Summit of the Future, we can begin the process of reform and revitalisation: 

By adapting multilateral institutions to today’s reality, instead of the reality of the Second World War; 

By advancing a New Agenda for Peace;

By revitalising the Sustainable Development Goals; 

By protecting human rights;  

By tackling the point where climate and security meet;

By agreeing guardrails on new technologies in conflict; 

By defending and advancing gender equality; 

By combatting racism and discrimination;

And by securing full and meaningful participation in civic life and peacebuilding –particularly young people, women and girls, and other historically marginalised communities. 

In short, we must “cultivate a culture of peace.”

That is the theme of this year’s International Day of Peace. 

And it is a cause all us devotees of peace and justice must rally behind, this day and everyday – through the Summit of the Future and beyond. 

That is the call we make today. 

May it ring out around the world.  

Before I sound the peace bell, please join me in a moment of silence to reflect on the meaning and necessity of peace – and the way in which each of us can nurture the conditions needed for a peaceful world to flourish.

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FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, global, United Nations,

The Contribution of Gabon to UNESCO and the Culture of Peace

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Excerpt from the website of the Gabon Review (translation by CPNN)

Drawing on his experience as a former actor in cooperation between Gabon and UNESCO, Juste Joris Tindy-Poaty takes stock of Gabonese initiatives in three key areas: the appropriation of international scientific programs, the implementation of the Program for the Management of Social Transformations (MOST), and the contribution to the Action Plan for a Culture of Peace in Africa. His analysis offers a unique perspective on Gabon’s past achievements and proposes concrete avenues for consolidating its diplomatic position within this international organization. . . .


Doctor Juste Joris Tindy-Poaty, Assistant Professor in Philosophy, Former Secretary General of the Gabonese National Commission for UNESCO (2011-2015). © DR

On the eve of the 43rd session of the General Conference, which could (we fervently hope) confirm the election of one of our own, in the person of Ambassador Noël Nelson Messone, to the post of Director-General of UNESCO, we intend to provide here some answers to the following question: what has been Gabon’s presence at UNESCO to date and what could this presence be beyond? It is as a former actor in our country’s cooperation with UNESCO that we authorize ourselves to make this contribution. . . .

The national contribution to the implementation of the “Action Plan for a Culture of Peace in Africa/Let’s Act for Peace”

Designed to call for the creation of a “Continental and Sustainable Movement for Peace”, the “Action Plan for a Culture of Peace in Africa/Let’s Act for Peace” was adopted at the end of the Pan-African Forum “Sources and Resources for a Culture of Peace”, organized jointly with the Angolan Government, UNESCO and the African Union, in Luanda (Angola), from 26 to 28 March 2013. The objective of this forum, which eventually became a Biennale of the Culture of Peace [2] , was “to draw on the sources of inspiration and the potential of the continent’s cultural, natural and human resources to identify concrete courses of action to build sustainable peace, understood as the cornerstone of endogenous development and Pan-Africanism.”

(Continued in right column)

(Click here for the original French version of this article.)

Question related to this article:

The Luanda Biennale: What is its contribution to a culture of peace in Africa?

(Continued from left column)

Represented at the Pan-African Forum in Luanda in 2013, and as such a stakeholder in the implementation of the action plan calling for the creation of a “continental and sustainable movement for peace”, Gabon immediately worked to contribute to the creation, under the aegis of UNESCO and the AU, of a certain number of networks of civil society organizations in Africa and the Diaspora, namely: (i) the “Network of foundations and research institutions for the promotion of a culture of peace in Africa” (September 2013); the “Pan-African Youth Network for the Culture of Peace” (December 2014) and the “Pan-African Women’s Network for the Culture of Peace and Sustainable Development” (June 2018). Made up of more than 50 organizations, including UNESCO chairs, the first network has its permanent secretariat provided by the “Félix Houphouët-Boigny Foundation for Peace Research”, and its headquarters is therefore based in Côte d’Ivoire, more precisely in Yamoussoukro. Initiatives of Gabon, the other two networks have their respective headquarters in Libreville.

The “Pan-African Youth Network for the Culture of Peace”, made up of about 60 organizations, including National Youth Councils, was formalized at the end of the Pan-African Forum “African Youth and the Challenge of Promoting a Culture of Peace” organized from 11 to 13 December, jointly by the Omar Bongo Ondimba Foundation for Peace, Science, Culture and the Environment and the Gabonese National Commission for UNESCO with the support of UNESCO and the participation of the AU. The general objective of this forum was to mobilize and unite African youth, particularly through a number of representative field structures, with a view to promoting a culture of peace in Africa. Since its creation, the “Pan-African Youth Network for the Culture of Peace” has been involved in all major initiatives involving youth organized by UNESCO, not only in the sub-region, but also at the continental level, including the now traditional youth forum, one of the institutionalized segments of the “Luanda Biennale. Pan-African Forum for Culture”.

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Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

Peace Day in San Francisco, A milestone in Cultivating a Culture of Peace

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Special to CPNN from David Wick*

“As you think, so you become”, is an ancient and timeless message for humanity. A similar wake-up call is expressed in the preamble of UNESCO (UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization). “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed.” Both the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, and the UN International Day of Peace are dedicated to assisting humanity in consciously living this reality.

The United Nations in a series of resolutions and programs for the 21st Century, called for a transition from the culture of war to a culture of peace. In 1999 the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace (A/RES/53/243). During the International Year for the Culture of Peace in the Year 2000, one percent of the world’s population (75 million people) took part in the signature campaign on the Manifesto 2000.

Pathways To Peace (PTP) is an international Peacebuilding, educational, and consulting organization. For over four decades, PTP has been actively making Peace a lived reality. PTP is a UN-designated Peace Messenger Organization and has Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). PTP works locally and globally, inter-generationally and multi-culturally, to support Peacebuilding, Peacebuilders, and to collaborate with other organizations in initiatives that advance the Culture of Peace.

Since its inception in 1981, Pathways To Peace has worked with the UN to expand awareness of and engage in the International Day of Peace (Peace Day), which is held annually on September 21. Peace Day has grown from a single event of a few hundred people in San Francisco on September 18, 1984, into a global movement that reaches hundreds of millions to billions of people. Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace. For Pathways To Peace, the overarching mission is cultivating a Culture of Peace for all of humanity with the International Day of Peace serving as a day for all nations and people to honor a cessation of hostilities, and to commemorate Peace Day through all means of education and communication.
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Question(s) related to this article:

What is happening this year (2024) for the International Day of Peace?

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The sound of silence reverberated at high noon in every time zone across the globe on September 18, 1984, as it rode a PeaceWave launched from San Francisco.

On that day, Pathways To Peace (PTP) coordinated a Peace Day in San Francisco (the birthplace of the UN) to celebrate the first large-scale, civil society organized, International Day of Peace. As the PeaceWave circled the globe that first year, citizens from 52 countries responded to the invitation from San Francisco to participate in the celebration of the International Day of Peace.

Those numbers have grown exponentially over the past 40 years. This year, organizers are expecting upwards of three billion people to observe the noon minute of silence and to participate in peace building events held in over 200 countries. Major international cities such as Geneva, Hiroshima, and New York will join San Francisco in livestreaming their Peace Day events to a global audience, with more cities to be announced in the weeks to come.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the first United Nations International Day of Peace gathering and the launch of the PeaceWave from The City by the Bay, Pathways To Peace is hosting the Peace Day gathering at the Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco this September 21, 10:30 am – 4:00 pm PDT. Tezikiah Gabriel, Executive Director of PTP, said, “As it was 40 years ago, the purpose of the Peace Day initiative is to foster cooperation at all levels of our local-global communities and to demonstrate the difference each individual, group, organization, or nation makes when acting in concert with one another… enough of a difference to change the course of history!”

Additional information can be found on Pathways to Peace . If you cannot attend in person please register to join us online for the Live Global Broadcast at ptp.events/broadcast and join in virtually.

Our shared goal of cultivating a Culture of Peace is doable and right before us. As international futurist and past President of the Institute of Noetic Sciences Willis Harman said, “Perhaps the only limits to the human mind are those we believe in.”

* David Wick is the President of Pathways To Peace and Executive Director of the Ashland Culture of Peace Commission.

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Statement by the European Union to the United Nations High-Level Forum on the Culture of Peace

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An e-statement from the United Nations High-Level Forum on the Culture of Peace

Statement on behalf of the European Union and its Member States by Ambassador Hedda Samson, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations High-level Forum on the Culture of Peace: Cultivating and nurturing the culture of peace for present and future generations

(Editor’s note: The following statement is a welcome change from the opposition of the European Union when the culture of peace resolution was submitted by UNESCO to the UN General Assembly in 1998.)


EU Spokesperson, Hedda Samson. Frame from minute 44 in the video of the Forum

New York, 2 August 2024

– CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY –

(Editor’s note: By checking the published e-statement against the delivery in the video of the Forum, one can see that it was delivered as written here including five minor additions to the e-statement marked here in boldface and three minor omissions marked in italics.)

Mr President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

The Candidate Countries North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Georgia, as well as Andorra, Monaco and San Marino align themselves with this statement.

As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, the European Union expresses its full support for the Culture of Peace agenda.

This agenda not only reflects our history and core values, but it also guides our actions – within and beyond our borders.

– Concretely, this means that we are deeply committed to the respect for life and dignity of each human being without discrimination or prejudice.

– It means that we are attached to non-violence, the peaceful settlement of conflicts and to democratic participation. North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.

– It also means that we are deeply committed to solidarity and cooperation for development, and to the promotion and respect of human rights as well as equal rights and opportunities for all.

The Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace with its eight pillars remains as valid today as it was in 1999. Even if we have witnessed tremendous change in societies worldwide. Even if we are facing new global challenges.

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Question(s) related to this article:

What is the United Nations doing for a culture of peace?

(continued from left column)

As we have gathered at this high-level event, let me convey three messages:

– First, pursuing a Culture of Peace can help us bridge the divides across and within societies worldwide. And it can help to advance the full implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

– Second, we have all committed in the Declaration on a Culture of Peace to support the free flow of information and knowledge, to support the important role of the media, to ensure freedom of the press and freedom of information and communication and protection of civic space (online and offline).

– Third, if we really want to be faithful to this agenda, we need effective multilateralism, founded on values and principles embedded in international law, the UN Charter, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with a strong United Nations at its core. This is the only way to respond collectively and efficiently to global crises, challenges and threats that no one can tackle alone.

Mr President,

In line with the theme of today’s event, the European Union fully agrees that we must cultivate and nurture a Culture of Peace for present and future generations.

As we have said before, the Summit of the Future will be a milestone, but our journey will continue beyond it. If we have a strong and ambitious Pact, we can fully seize the opportunity to pave the way for current and future generations.

The Pact should recommit to the UN Charter and its values, which is crucial in these times of widespread violations. We have all committed, and must again recommit to maintaining international peace and security, taking effective collective measures for the prevention of conflict, for peace operations, and for the suppression of acts of aggression.

There can be no Culture of Peace for present or future generations without respect for human rights, democratic participation and the rule of law. We must do away with all forms of discrimination and prejudice:

– Let us join efforts to achieve gender equality and the full enjoyment of all human rights by all women and girls.

– Let us safeguard the freedom of religion or belief for all. We must strive towards democratic societies, where freedom of opinion and expression prevails, in a spirit of respect, acceptance, tolerance and dialogue, and where we stand united against all forms of racism and extremism.

– Let us foster a Culture of Peace with children and youth through inclusive quality education that promotes acceptance, that empowers them as agents of change, and that safeguards their rights to protection from violence and discrimination.

Mr. President, to succeed in all this, strong partnerships with civil society are vital. That is why it is so important to ensure a safe and enabling environment where civil society can thrive. And that is why we also encourage enhancing the meaningful and effective engagement of civil society throughout the work of the UN System.

To conclude, Mr President, you can count on the EU’s full commitment to contribute to the effective implementation of the UN Culture of Peace agenda.

I thank you.

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2024 United Nations High Level Forum on the Culture of Peace

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An article by CPNN based on the videos of the forum at UN Web TV part 1 and UN Web TV part 2

The United Nations held its annual High Level Forum on the Culture of Peace on August 2.

The following article is based on the videos of the Forum because it seems that the United Nations did not publish a general article about the forum. There is a UN webpage for the Forum, but it contains only the concept note, the program, video excerpts, three photos and a link to the 1999 resolution on a culture of peace.


Scene at beginning of Forum, taken from UN video. (Note that in previous years, the room was filled with representatives of civil society and Member States)

A concept note with background about the culture of peace was published this year prior to the forum by the President of the General assembly saying that it would be dedicated to the theme “Promoting Culture of Peace in the Digital Era.”

The program consisted of a three-hour opening session beginning at 10:00 with four presentations available in the UN journal.

H.E. Mr. Dennis Francis, President of the UN General Assembly began by commemorating the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, and thanking the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh for its continued stewardship of the High-Level Forum. He quoted Mahatma Gandhi that “there is no way to peace, peace is the way,” and Nobel Peace Laureate Muhammed Yunus that “Peace should be understood in a human way – in a broad social, political way. Peace is threatened by unjust economic, social and political order, absence of democracy, environmental degradation and the absence of human rights.”

Mr. Guy Ryder, Under-Secretary-General for Policy also spoke about the “enduring legacy” of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, and he looked forward to the Declaration on Future Generations to be agreed upon at the Summit of the Future.

Mrs. Lily Gray, UNESCO Liaison Office to the UN said that the digital age demands that we update and refine the concept of a culture of peace, and she referred to UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence.

Ms. Andrea Carstensen, Representative of Global Youth Caucus on SDG 16 referred to the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace, and Security Council Resolution 2250 — unanimously adopted in 2015 and reaffirmed in 2018. The resolution acknowledges the traditionally-overlooked role of youth in peacebuilding and conflict resolution and calls for the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes at all levels.

Then followed a plenary session with statements by 31 countries, the European Union and 2 observers, the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta. Their statements are available here.

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Question(s) related to this article:

What is the United Nations doing for a culture of peace?

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As you may see from the list of countries, there were statements posted from eight countries in Latin America, seven from Asia and five from Africa, but no remarks from the United States or from its allies in Japan, Canada or Australia. China did not issue a statement but is represented, along with 17 other countries, by the statement of Venezuela On Behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations

The statement by the European Union in favor of the culture of peace is published here separately because it marks a welcome change from their previous opposition to the culture of peace.

Vietnam and the Holy See also published articles on the Internet about their statements.

In the afternoon there was a one-hour panel session from 15:00 until 16:07 that can be seen in the second video listed above.

The panel session was moderated by Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications. She introduced remarks by the following four panelists:

Mr. Felipe Paullier, Assistant-Secretay-General for Youth Affairs.

Ms. Naureen Chowdhury Fink from the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism. Her remarks are published here. According to Wikipedia, the NGO was founded in 2017 by a consortium of companies spearheaded by Facebook (now known as Meta), Google/YouTube, Microsoft and Twitter (now known as X). It provides a database of videos and images related to terrorism.

Mr. Francisco Rojas Aravena, rector of the University of Peace. His remarks are published here.

Ms Amanda Dixon from the NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace and Restoration of Light. Her remarks are published here. She spoke about her organization, saying “Our 94-year-old chairman, a global messenger of peace, established our organization over a decade ago to leave peace as a legacy to future generations.” According to Wikipedia, HWPL was founded in 2013 by Lee Man-hee in South Korea, and is classified as a sect according to eight listed sources.

Comments were then requested from the member states and observers, for which there were two: Costa Rica and the NGO Man Up Campaign.

The floor was given again to the four panelists for their final remarks.

Concluding remarks of the panel session were delivered by the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh, Mr. Muhammad Abdul Muhith. He returned to the opening theme of the Forum, commemorating the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, and looking forward to the Pact to be agreed upon at the Summit of the Future. He thanked all of the Forum participants with a specific mention of the organization Heavenly Culture, World Peace and Restoration of Light.

A closing session at 16:45 is listed in the UN Journal, but there was no video of this published on the UN Web TV, no account in UN News and no statements published in the UN journal.

This year’s Forum continues a trend that began with the Forum last year. Unlike the first ten Forums from 2012 to 2022, when Anwarul Chowdhury was involved in the planning, there is very little role for the civil society and not much media coverage, not even by UN News.

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Video about Ukraine war by US Presidential Candidate Kennedy

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Text from X video republished on July 12 by Transcend Media Service

(Editor’s note: The following is the text of a video interview with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., independent candidate for President in the United States. It completely contradicts the usual news from the mass media that justifies American involvement in the Ukraine War. We could not find the text anywhere on the Internet, but only a critique of it by the Washington Post.)

You know, Putin every day says, I want to settle the war. Let’s negotiate. And Zelensky said, we’re not going to negotiate. But Zelensky didn’t want to start that way. I don’t want to,  you know, belabor the history, but Russia was invaded three times through Ukraine. The last time Hitler killed one out of every seven Russians. They don’t want to have Ukraine join NATO.

So when the wall came down in the Soviet Union, Europe, Gorbachev destroyed himself politically by doing something that was very, very courageous. He went to Bush and he said, I’m going to allow you to reunify Germany under a NATO army. I’m going to remove 450,000 Soviet troops. But I want your commitment.  After that, you will not move NATO one inch to the east. And we solemnly swore that we wouldn’t do it.

Well, then in 97, Zbigniew Brzezinski, who was the first of the bneocons said, we’re going to move NATO a thousand miles to the east and take 15 countries into it and surround the Soviet Union.  So then we not only move it into 14 new nations, but we unilaterally walk away from our two nuclear weapons treaties with the Russians.  And we put Aegis missile systems in Romania and Poland 12 minutes from Moscow.

When Russians did that to Cuba in 62, we came this close to nuclear war until they removed them. So the Russians don’t want nukes 400 miles from Moscow.

We then overthrow the Ukraine government in 2014, their elected government,  and put in a Western sympathetic government.

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Question related to this article:

Is the media an arm of the culture of war?

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Russia then has to go into Crimea because they have a port, because they’re only warm water port and they know the new government that we just installed is going to invite the US Navy into their port. So Russia then went into Crimea without firing a shot because the people of Crimea are Russian.

Then the new Ukrainian government we installed started killing ethnic Russians in Donbas and Lugansk, and they voted to leave and join Russia.  Putin said, I don’t want them.  Let’s give them protection and give them semi-autonomy and make an agreement to keep NATO out of Ukraine.

That treaty was written by Germany, France, Russia and England, the Minsk accords. And the Ukrainian parliament, which is controlled by ultra-rightists, and that’s a nice way of talking about them, refused to sign it.

Zelensky runs in 2019.   He’s an actor.   Why did he get elected, with 70 % of the vote?   Because he promised to sign the Minsk accords.  He promised peace. He gets in there and he pivots.  Nobody can explain why, but we know why. Because he was threatened with death by ultra-rightists in his government and a withdrawal of support by the United States, by Victoria Nuland, who’s the leading Neocon in the State Department. We told him he could not sign it.

So then the Russians go in. They don’t send a big army. They only send 40,000 people. It’s a nation of 44 million people. They clearly do not intend to conquer Ukraine, but they want us back at the negotiating table.

We won’t allow Zelensky to go back, so he goes to Israel and Turkey and says will you please help me negotiate a treaty. The Russians just want a guarantee that Ukraine won’t join NATO. Zelensky signs a treaty. Putin’s people sign the treaty. And Putin starts withdrawing the Russian troops in good faith.

What happens? Joe Biden sends Boris Johnson, the British Prime Minister, over to Ukraine in April and forces him to tear up the treaty.

Since then, 450,000 kids have died. Not one of them should have died. For every one Russian that dies, five to eight Ukrainians die. They don’t have any men left! You know, we’re giving them all these weapons, but they don’t have men left. It’s a catastrophe! And we look kind of like the aggressor, that’s the way the rest of the world sees us.

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