The theme for this year’s International Day of Peace, “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the Global Goals”, serves as a global call to action. Its resonance extends far beyond symbolic observance; it encapsulates the urgent need for perpetual and robust peace, not just for individuals but for entire nations.
Nations around the world commemorate the International Day of Peace on 21 September every year. This day holds immense significance, as it reinforces the fundamental ideals of peace through a commitment to 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire, as declared by the UN General Assembly. In fact, peace is not a passive aspiration but an active endeavour.
For countless regions plagued by insurgencies and terrorism, the restoration of perpetual and durable peace is a shared dream. This aspiration transcends borders and is universally cherished by nations. Governments and opposing armed groups have to exhibit foresight, placing the well-being of their citizens and the future of their nations above all else.
This call to action underscores our collective responsibility to cultivate a lasting peace that fosters an environment conducive to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals outlined by the United Nations. Peaceful nations can redefine and enhance the socioeconomic conditions of their citizens, offering them a brighter future.
António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, aptly states, “Peace is needed today more than ever. War and conflict unleash devastation, poverty, and hunger, displacing tens of millions of people from their homes. Climate chaos abounds, even in peaceful nations gripped by stark inequalities and political polarization.”
Myanmar has been suffering the impacts of armed insurgencies and terrorism due to a myriad of factors such as racism, political ideologies, localism, and personal cults. Regardless of the causes, it is essential for all stakeholders, including the people, successive governments, ethnic armed organizations, and various armed groups within the nation, to be regarded as brethren sharing the same future on the same soil.
Setting aside animosity and divisive sentiments is the first step towards restoring perpetual and durable peace, for the sake of the entire nation and its people. The fruits of peace can be enjoyed by every member of society. Everybody has to set hate and controversial things aside so as to restore perpetual peace for the whole nation and entire people. Only when the whole country is peaceful and stable, should they all have to negotiate the things set aside and seek the best solutions for all. If so, all citizens will have the chance to enjoy the fruit of peace.
