Secretary-General's message 2023

As we mark this International Day of Peace, people and our planet are in crisis.

Conflicts driving record numbers of people from their homes. Deadly fires, raging floods and soaring temperatures. Poverty, inequalities and injustices. Mistrust, division and prejudice.

This year’s theme reminds us that peace is not automatic. Peace is the result of action.

Action to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that no one is left behind. Action to end the war on our planet and its natural gifts. Action to uphold and protect the human rights and dignity of every person — especially as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Action to use the timeless tools of diplomacy, dialogue and collaboration to defuse tensions and end conflict. And action for those millions of people living through the horrors of war.

Peace is not only a noble vision for humanity. Peace is a call to action.

Let us commit to build, drive and sustain peace for all.

António Guterres

Secretary-General's 100-day countdown to the International Day of Peace message

Our world needs peace – now more than ever.

Yet conflict, rising inequalities, persistent injustices, humanity’s war on nature, and a global financial system that is outdated, dysfunctional and unfair, are blocking the path to peace.

This year’s International Day of Peace will focus on “Actions for Peace” and how the Sustainable Development Goals are essential to preventing conflict and maintaining peace.

The 100-day countdown to the International Day of Peace starts now.

Together, let us take action now to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful world for all.

António Guterres

Peace is not only a noble vision for humanity. Peace is a call to action.

António Guterres