International Day of Peace 2025: Advancing Peace Through the SDGs

Observed on Sunday, September 21, 2025, the International Day of Peace commemorates the founding ideals of the United Nations: to promote peace, end conflict, and foster global cooperation. Each year on this day, individuals and nations are reminded of the importance of building a world free from violence and inequality.

The 2025 focus centers on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their direct link to global peace. Through this theme, the day highlights how addressing poverty, inequality, environmental threats, and injustice creates a stronger foundation for peace everywhere.

Understanding the Significance

The International Day of Peace goes beyond symbolism—it’s a global call to action. The RELX SDG Resources event will spotlight how sustainable development can help prevent conflict, strengthen communities, and advance global cooperation.

This year’s programming emphasizes the deep connection between the SDGs and peacebuilding, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge to advocate for lasting change.

How the SDGs Support Global Peace

No Poverty & Zero Hunger

Eliminating poverty and hunger addresses the root causes of many conflicts. Stable access to food and income reduces desperation and promotes cooperation.

Health, Education & Gender Equality

Healthy, educated societies are more likely to resolve disputes peacefully. Gender equality also helps create inclusive systems that reflect the needs of entire populations.

Clean Water, Affordable Energy & Economic Growth

Access to sustainable resources lowers the risk of resource-driven tensions. Economic opportunity can replace instability with hope and shared progress.

Justice, Institutions & Global Partnerships

Effective institutions and international cooperation form the backbone of peace. Strong governance, fair laws, and community participation are all essential.

International Day of Peace Themes

Year	Theme	Peacebuilding Focus
2010	Youth for Peace and Development	Empowered young people as key agents of peacebuilding and sustainable development.
2011	Peace and Democracy: Make Your Voice Heard	Highlighted the importance of participatory democracy and civic engagement in peace.
2012	Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future	Linked environmental sustainability and long-term peace goals.
2013	Focus on Peace Education	Promoted education as a tool for conflict prevention and peace promotion.
2014	Right to Peace	Affirmed peace as a fundamental human right in line with international law.
2015	Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All	Stressed collaboration between individuals, groups, and nations to build peace.
2016	The Sustainable Development Goals: Building Blocks for Peace	Introduced the SDGs as essential to creating peaceful and just societies.
2017	Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All	Focused on inclusion and dignity, especially for displaced and refugee communities.
2018	The Right to Peace – The Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 70	Reinforced peace through the lens of universal human rights.
2019	Climate Action for Peace	Addressed climate change as a major threat to global peace and security.
2020	Shaping Peace Together	Responded to COVID-19 with a message of global solidarity and healing.
2021	Recovering Better for an Equitable and Sustainable World	Called for post-pandemic recovery that prioritizes justice and equality.
2022	End Racism. Build Peace.	Confronted racial injustice as a barrier to peace in all societies.
2023	Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals	Urged proactive global efforts to advance peace through the SDGs.
2024	Cultivating a Culture of Peace	Promoted mutual understanding, goodwill, and collective action to build peace. Commemorated the 25th anniversary of the UN Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace.
2025	Advancing Peace Through the SDGs	Highlights how Sustainable Development Goals foster global peace and prevent conflict.

Event Highlights

Interactive Workshops

Hands-on sessions focused on individual SDGs and their peacebuilding impact, including practical steps for involvement.

Panel Discussions

Experts will discuss how the SDGs provide a roadmap for sustainable peace and address the most pressing global challenges.

Exhibitions and Multimedia Displays

Attendees can engage with visual and written materials that highlight real-world progress, global partnerships, and stories of transformation.

A Path Toward a More Peaceful Future

The International Day of Peace is not just a commemoration—it’s a commitment. The 2025 event invites participants to consider how peace is built every day through actions big and small, from local community programs to global policy change.

By aligning with the SDGs, the world moves closer to eliminating conflict, reducing inequality, and creating a more just and secure future for all.

A Message from the UN Secretary-General

“The demand for peace today is unparalleled. Conflict and warfare wreak havoc, breed poverty and starvation, and displace countless individuals. The turmoil of climate change is omnipresent. Even peaceful nations face significant disparities and divisive politics.”

– UN Secretary-General António Guterres

The Role of Youth and Community Action

The year 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the global SDG timeline. Youth, who make up over 1.2 billion of the world’s population, play a central role in advancing the goals of justice, equality, and peace.

This year’s theme urges all people to act—by advocating for fairer policies, standing up for human rights, and supporting climate action and economic opportunity in their communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the International Day of Peace?

September 21, 2025. It’s recognized each year on this date by the United Nations and global partners.

What is the 2025 theme?

This year’s focus is on how the Sustainable Development Goals provide a path to lasting peace.

Why is this theme relevant now?

Global conflict, displacement, climate crises, and inequality continue to escalate. The SDGs offer a framework to address these issues at their core.

Summary and Next Steps

Peace requires more than the absence of war. It depends on justice, equity, and access to opportunity for everyone. The International Day of Peace 2025 is a chance to recommit to those values—locally and globally.

Take action:

• Learn more about the SDGs and how they support peace
• Attend the RELX-hosted SDG Resources event on September 21
• Share messages of peace using the hashtags #InternationalDayOfPeace and #GlobalGoals
• Advocate for policies that promote justice and inclusion