International Day of Peace: UN chief asks world to invest in young peacebuilders

UNITED NATIONS: In a world mired with conflicts and violence around the world, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called for lasting peace ahead of the International Day of Peace. The theme for the day is “Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for All”. “I call on all warring parties to lay down their weapons and observe a global ceasefire. To them I say: stop the killings and the destruction, and create space for lasting peace”, Mr Ban Ki-moon said.

“There is no group more poised to help realize this dream than today’s young people. They are part of the largest generation of youth in history, more aware and connected than any before. I urge all Governments to make greater investments in realizing the potentially massive contributions of the world’s young peacebuilders”, stressed the UN chief. Speaking about the upcoming UN General Assembly session, he added that in order to achieve the Agenda 2030 which will be adopted by the countries at the Sustainable Development Summit on September 25, it is important to maintain peace.

The rise of extremist forces like the Islamic State has worsened the situation in Syria, triggering an exodus of people seeking refuge in EU and other countries in the world. The proliferation of barbaric outfits like Boko Haram in Nigeria and Chad has unleashed mayhem across a wide swathe of west Africa. Alluding to the 70th anniversary celebrations of the UNGA Mr Ban Ki-moon said, “let us seize the opportunity to achieve the Organization’s founding purpose: to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”

India’s role in peacekeeping

India has contributed immensely to UN peacekeeping missions all over the world. It is currently the third largest contributor of troops to peacekeeping in the world. Since the inception of the UN peacekeeping mission, India has contributed nearly 180,000 troops, the largest number from any country, participated in more than 44 missions and 156 Indian peacekeepers have made the supreme sacrifice while serving in UN missions. India still continues playing a major role in UN peacekeeping missions.

India is strongly supportive of nationally-led plans for peace consolidation, while arguing for a constructive approach and a ‘lighter touch’ by the Peace Building Commission (PBC) in extending advice, support and in extending its involvement. India has also been contributing to the UN Peacebuilding Fund.

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