Why In News?
The International Day of Peace 2026, also known as World Peace Day, was observed on 21 September 2026 to promote peace, non-violence, dialogue and international cooperation.
About International Day of Peace
The International Day of Peace is observed globally on September 21 to strengthen the ideals of peace through 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire.
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Origin: Proclaimed in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly via Resolution 36/37.
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Date Change: Originally held on the third Tuesday of September (opening day of the UN General Assembly session). In 2001, the UN fixed the permanent date as September 21 via Resolution 55/282, designating it as a period of global non-violence and ceasefire.
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2026 Theme: “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day”.
Key Symbols & Observances
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The Peace Bell: Donated by the United Nations Association of Japan in 1954, cast from coins and medals collected from over 60 nations. It is rung twice a year at the UN Headquarters in New York—on the vernal equinox and on September 21.
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Global Ceasefire: Invites all nations and warring factions to halt hostilities for 24 hours.
Source: INDIATODAYNE
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. With reference to the International Day of Peace, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3 Explanation: Statement 1 is correct: The International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1981 under Resolution 36/37. Statement 2 is correct: It is observed globally every year on 21 September. In 2001, the UNGA officially voted to fix 21 September as the permanent annual date. Statement 3 is correct: When the day was originally created in 1981, it was designated to be celebrated on the third Tuesday of September, which coincided with the opening day of the regular annual sessions of the General Assembly. |
