International Day of Peace 2025
By Nundkeswarsing Bossoondyal, CEO of UNA-MAURITIUS – UN-IDP25
The United Nations International Day of Peace 2025 was held on 20th September 2025 at the Municipal Council of Quatre-Bornes. UN=IDY was jointly held between the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Municipal Council of Quatre-Bornes, and the United Nations Association of Mauritius.
Mrs. Nandini Kiran Meetarbhan, UNA-Mauritius representative at the UN, was the Master of the Ceremonies.
The following NGOs were part of the organizing team:
• Mr. Dewendra Dookna, of Brahma Kumaris Mauritius, Representative to the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union.
• Ms. Aleeyah Lallmahomed, Secretary of the Council of Religions in Mauritius, Mauritius representative to the African Women of Faith Network for Religions for Peace, and Co-Chair of the African Interfaith Youth Network.
• Mr. Mahess Roopun, President of the United Nations Association of Mauritius.
• Mrs. Sandra Kayala-Nareinnen, Chairperson of the Organising Committee of the UN International Day of Peace.
• Ms. Saniyah Hossenbaccus, President of the National Forum for Colleges and Secretary-General of the National Student Council.
• Mr. Manishwar Sharma Purmanund, National Director of Youth for Human Rights, United for Human Rights, the Citizens Commission on Human Rights, and the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, and recipient of the prestigious Human Rights Hero Award at the United Nations.
• Ms. Prema Mookaram, former Mrs Mauritius, spokesperson of the Council of Students and Youth Movement (SWYLM), the United Nations Youth and Students Council, the Union of Women’s Committee, and the Non-Aligned Students and Youth Organisation.
• Mr. Ravind Nuchaddy, UN-IDP Prep Com, and Deputy Secretary General UNA-MAURITIUS
• The Groupe le Sages for their musical performances and Slam.
Our VIP Guests in the audience:
1.Hon. Marie Geneviève Stéphanie Anquetil, Chief Government Whip and Member of Parliament for Constituency No. 18
2,Hon. Vedasingam Vasudevachariar Baloomoody, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly.
Speech of Nundkeswarsingh Bossoondyal, CEO of the United Nations Association of Mauritius.
Dear Chief Guest Honourable Dr Arvin Boolell, Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries
And the Mayor of the Municipality of Quatre Bornes, Mr Rudy Brian Kennoo, our host speaker.,
All Protocols observed, Friends, Ladies, and Gentlemen, Distinguished Guests,
Though we are participating in the commemoration of the United Nations International Day of Peace, I was struck by the exhibition of photos of our late Father of the Independence of Mauritius, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, taking place simultaneously in the hall of our UN IDP. Congratulations to the Mayor of Quatre Bornes and the Government of Mauritius for this bold initiative of marking the 125th anniversary of SSR all over Mauritius. Let me share with you all that it was the Socialist Working Youth League of Mauritius and the United Nations of Mauritius that were the first groups to initiate the SSR Day in Mauritius from 1986 to 1996. Similarly, with different types of events like prayer, social, cultural, and educational events, talks, forums, exhibitions, and sharing food with those in elderly homes and orphanages. Since 1986, we have been calling for a National Public Holiday to mark the SSR on each 18th September to let people pay their respect for the sacrifices and hard contributions like the Welfare State. Let me once more appeal to the Hon. Minister Dr Arvind Boolell be our ambassador with the government to convince the Government to declare SSR Day as a Public Holiday, similar to South Africa having Nelson Mandela Day, the USA with Dr. Martin Luther King Day, and India with Gandhi Day.
Let’s now proceed to the business of the Day, marking the United Nations International Day of Peace.
PEACE BACKGROUND & RATIONALE
Peace is the cornerstone of human dignity, social progress, and sustainable development. Conflict and violence cause immeasurable suffering, displace communities, and disrupt economies.
The International Day of Peace, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1981 (Resolution 36/67) and observed annually on 21 September since 2001 (Resolution 55/282), calls for a global ceasefire and the promotion of non-violence.
The 2025 theme — “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals” — highlights how the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are instrumental in addressing the root causes of conflict: poverty, inequality, and environmental stress. The message is clear: achieving the SDGs is fundamental to achieving lasting peace.
Understanding the Concept of World and Domestic Peace
Peace is a fundamental human aspiration that resonates both globally and nationally.
World peace refers to the absence of conflict, war, and violence among nations, fostering harmony, stability, and cooperation on an international scale.
Domestic peace pertains to internal harmony within a country, ensuring security, social justice, and the well-being of its citizens.
Both levels of peace are interconnected: global stability contributes to domestic tranquillity, and vice versa. Achieving peace requires addressing political disputes, economic inequalities, social injustices, and cultural differences through dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual understanding.
Peace as a Key Component of Daily Life
Peace is essential for both individual and societal well-being. It creates a safe environment where people can pursue education, work, and personal growth without fear of violence or instability.
Peace fosters economic development, social cohesion, and mental health. In daily life, it manifests in respectful relationships, community harmony, and stable governance. Without peace, societies experience disruption, suffering, and setbacks. Thus, peace is not merely the absence of war but the foundation of a prosperous and sustainable life.
Lessons from World Wars I and II
The devastating World Wars underscored the catastrophic consequences of global conflict. Fueled by nationalism, imperialism, and failed diplomacy, they resulted in unprecedented destruction and loss of life.
Their aftermath revealed the urgent need for collective security and international cooperation, paving the way for the creation of institutions such as the United Nations, which promote peace, resolve disputes peacefully, and advance human rights worldwide.
Why the United Nations Pushes for Worldwide Peace
Established in 1945, the United Nations was created to safeguard international peace and security. It works to prevent conflicts through dialogue, peacekeeping, and conflict resolution mechanisms.
The UN also addresses the root causes of unrest, including poverty, inequality, and human rights violations. By fostering global cooperation, it aims to build a more stable and equitable world where disputes are resolved peacefully and sustainable development is pursued.
Obstacles to Peace and Security
Several challenges hinder global peace, including ongoing conflicts, territorial disputes, political instability, and economic disparities. Terrorism, insurgencies, and militarism further complicate peace efforts.
Overcoming these obstacles requires international cooperation, diplomacy, and sustained commitment to resolving conflicts peacefully.
The Danger of Nuclear Escalation in the Ukraine-Russia Conflict
The Ukraine-Russia conflict illustrates the risks of modern warfare, particularly the threat of nuclear escalation. Any potential use of nuclear weapons would have catastrophic humanitarian and environmental consequences, heightening global insecurity.
This underscores the urgent need for diplomacy and adherence to international treaties such as the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Threats from International and Regional Conflicts
Regional and international disputes over resources, borders, and power often escalate into armed confrontations, fuelling displacement, economic instability, and humanitarian crises.
Such conflicts can spill over into neighbouring regions, destabilizing wider areas. Preventing this requires inclusive dialogue, diplomatic engagement, and effective conflict-resolution mechanisms.
Full Partners in Peacebuilding
Families, Civil Society, Youth, and Popular Organizations
Families and civil society are critical in cultivating a culture of peace at the grassroots level by promoting tolerance, respect, and non-violence.
Youth and popular organizations amplify voices for change, leading peace campaigns and fostering social cohesion. Their active engagement strengthens resilience and community-based conflict resolution.
Governments and Local Authorities
Governments play a central role by upholding justice, human rights, and equitable development. Local authorities translate national peace strategies into practical community-level action.
Strong governance, inclusive policies, and international partnerships reinforce these efforts.
Elements for Promoting World Peace
Objectives
• Promote awareness of the International Day of Peace and the 2025 theme.
• Highlight the SDGs as pathways to conflict prevention and harmony.
• Mobilize communities, youth, NGOs, and policymakers for peace action.
• Strengthen collaboration among governments, civil society, faith groups, and the UN.
• Encourage reflection and education on peace, from families to the global stage.
• Proposed Activities
• National Peace Walk and awareness campaign.
• School & University Programs (workshops, debates, essay/art competitions on “Peace & SDGs”).
• Cultural & Interfaith Gatherings celebrating traditions of peace.
• Peace Pledge Initiative for citizens, leaders, and organizations.
• Official Peace Day Ceremony with government, UN, and civil society.
• Public Forum on “Advancing Peace through the SDGs.”
• Expected Outcomes
Increased public awareness of the International Day of Peace and SDGs.
Greater youth participation in peacebuilding.
Strengthened collaboration between the government, NGOs, and international partners.
Creation of educational and advocacy materials for schools and communities.
Launch of follow-up programs for ongoing peace advocacy beyond 2025.
Key Audiences
Government officials, parliamentarians, mayors, and local councillors
UN agencies and diplomatic missions
NGOs, CSOs, and peace activists
Schools, universities, and youth networks
Faith-based and cultural organizations
The wider Mauritian public
Conclusion
The International Day of Peace 2025 offers a pivotal opportunity to link peace advocacy with the SDGs. By aligning actions in Mauritius with the global call for “Actions for Peace”, UNA-MAURITIUS aims to inspire practical steps toward non-violence, justice, and cooperation.
Regarding the peace situation in Mauritius and the world — including conflicts such as Palestine and Ukraine-Russia — I defer to the Honourable Minister for official reference. However, it can be affirmed that Mauritius remains a state where peace is deeply felt across society. In short UNA-MAURITIUS is for the 2 states solution Palestine- Israel as decided b6 the UN and supported by the Government of Mauritius. We are for a lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia.
