UN SG: “Our Warring World Is Crying Out for Peace”

…as the world marks International Day of Peace

As the world marked the International Day of Peace on Sunday, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General (SG) António Guterres issued a stark reminder that “our warring world is crying out for peace”.
The annual observance, held on September 21, comes against a backdrop of escalating global conflicts, mass displacement, and mounting humanitarian crises. In his statement, the UN Chief urged people everywhere to raise their voices against violence and division.
“This year’s International Day of Peace urges each of us to give voice to that call,” Guterres said, “lives are being ripped apart, childhoods extinguished, and basic human dignity discarded amidst the cruelty and degradations of war.”
According to the UN, the world is currently experiencing a surge in armed conflict, with international law flouted in multiple regions and record numbers of people being forced from their homes.
“All they want is peace,” Guterres stressed, warning that the impacts of war extend far beyond the frontlines. “Peace is everyone’s business. The impacts of war ripple around the world.”
Guterres highlighted the deep link between peace and development, noting that nine of the ten countries struggling most with development are also suffering conflict.
“Peace cannot wait – our work starts now,” he declared. “We must silence the guns. End the suffering. Build bridges. And create stability and prosperity.”
Human rights advocates echoed the call. “The Secretary-General is right – conflict is not only destroying lives but stealing futures,” said Leila Mohammed, a peace researcher with the International Crisis Group. “Without peace, education stalls, economies collapse, and entire generations grow up knowing only violence.”
The UN SG also appealed for a rejection of racism, dehumanisation, and misinformation, which he said only “throw fuel on the fires of conflict.” Instead, he urged the global community to embrace respect and compassion.
“We must speak the language of respect, open our hearts to others, and use our influence to push for peace,” he said. “Where we have peace, we have hope. Families unite, communities rebuild, and children learn and play.”
For many, the message resonated deeply. David Singh, a Guyanese youth activist, said the Peace Day call comes at the right time. “Even if we’re not on the frontlines of war, we can be on the frontlines of peace – by rejecting division in our schools, communities, and workplaces.”
As nations and communities around the globe hosted commemorations for Peace Day, the UN’s message was clear: the world cannot afford to delay.
“Peace is everyone’s responsibility,” Guterres concluded. “And peace begins with us.”