The world commemorates International Day of Peace annually on 21st September. Established by the United Nations, the day symbolizes our collective aspiration for a world without conflict and strife. This year, the focus is on the integral role of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they pave the path for lasting tranquility.
The significance of the International Day of Peace extends beyond a single day of observance. It is a call to action for individuals, communities, and nations to the vision of a harmonious planet.
The expected areas where there are expected synergies between SDGs and peace are in encapsulated in SDGs’ pillars of peace. The first pillar is No Poverty and Zero Hunger. The International Day of Peace recognizes the role of economic stability in preventing conflict. By eradicating poverty and hunger, we remove some of the root causes of wars.
The second pillar is Good Health, Education and Gender Equality. Healthy societies are believed to be peaceful ones. By promoting well-being, education, and gender parity, we build societies resilient to conflict.
The next pillar is Clean Water, Energy and Economic Growth. Sustainable resources mean fewer conflicts over scarcity. For the pillar on Institutions, Justice and Partnerships, the International Day of Peace calls for strong institutions and insists that justice and partnerships at all levels foster a culture of peace.
These pillars of peace are hinged on the Sustainable Development Goals also known as the Global Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
The goals are integrated to recognize that action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability.
Countries have committed to prioritize progress for those who are furthest behind. The SDGs are designed to end poverty, hunger, AIDS, and discrimination against women and girls. The creativity, knowhow, technology and financial resources from all of society is necessary to achieve the SDGs in every context.
We cannot hope for sustainable development without peace, stability, human rights and effective governance, based on the rule of law. Our world is increasingly divided. Some regions enjoy peace, security and prosperity, while others fall into seemingly endless cycles of conflict and violence. This is not inevitable and must be addressed.
Armed violence and insecurity have a destructive impact on a country’s development, affecting economic growth, and often resulting in grievances that last for generations. Sexual violence, crime, exploitation and torture are also prevalent where there is conflict, or no rule of law, and countries must take measures to protect those who are most at risk.
The SDGs aim to significantly reduce all forms of violence, and work with governments and communities to end conflict and insecurity. Promoting the rule of law and human rights are key to this process, as is reducing the flow of illicit arms and strengthening the participation of developing countries in the institutions of global governance.
Written by BISHOP DR. OZIOMA OZOEMENA
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