International Day of Peace: Focus on recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world

In 2021, the International Day of Peace was observed 21 September with the Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world" with focus to 'heal from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are inspired to think creatively and collectively about how to help everyone recover better, how to build resilience, and how to transform our world into one that is more equal, more just, equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and healthier.'

It is being highlighted by the UN that the 'people caught in conflict are especially vulnerable in terms of lack of access to healthcare' therefore it is being deemed urgent to go for 'sustained humanitarian pause to local conflicts' and consequently 'to ensure people caught in conflict have access to lifesaving vaccinations and treatments.'

"The pandemic has been accompanied by a surge in stigma, discrimination, and hatred, which only cost more lives instead of saving them: the virus attacks all without caring about where we are from or what we believe in. Confronting this common enemy of humankind, we must be reminded that we are not each other’s enemy. To be able to recover from the devastation of the pandemic, we must make peace with one another," urged the UN that the member states should observe a period of non-violence and cease-fire and 'celebrate peace by standing up against acts of hate online and offline, and by spreading compassion, kindness, and hope in the face of the pandemic, and as we recover.' .