22/09/2025
International Day of Peace 2025: Act Now for a Peaceful World.
Each year on 21 September, the global community pauses to mark the International Day of Peace; a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among nations and peoples. The 2025 theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” is not only timely but urgent. It reminds us that peace is not an abstract dream; it is a practical necessity requiring immediate and collective action.
Today, the pursuit of peace faces extraordinary tests. From wars and violent conflicts to rising inequalities, climate-driven displacement, and deepening polarization, humanity is navigating one of the most challenging periods in recent history. The Global Peace Index 2025 records conflict-related deaths and displacement at some of their highest levels, while fragile states struggle with governance and resilience. Yet even in these uncertain times, countless acts of courage and cooperation demonstrate that peace is possible if we choose it.
A Call to Act Now
The phrase “Act Now for a Peaceful World" carries two messages. First, it underscores the urgency of peace: the cost of inaction violence, war, exclusion, is devastating, destroying lives and opportunities. Second, it emphasizes shared responsibility: governments, civil society, young people, religious leaders, and citizens each have a role to play in building a just and inclusive society.
At the Marcus Odianose Ughulu Foundation for Peace and Sustainable Development (MOUFPSD), this call resonates deeply with our mission. Since our inception, we have been committed to advancing peace at the local, national, and international levels through innovative and inclusive initiatives.
Our Contribution to Advancing Peace
1. National Social Impact Leaders’ Summit (NSILS)
Through NSILS, our flagship platform, we bring together policymakers, peacebuilders, development partners and young innovators to exchange ideas and strategies for sustainable peace and inclusive growth. The summit reinforces the principle that peace cannot be achieved in isolation; it requires collaboration across sectors and generations.
2. Peace Dialogues and Forums
We have convened high-level dialogues and community forums that gather stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. These safe spaces nurture mutual understanding, conflict prevention and reconciliation. They embody the belief that dialogue, not violence, is the most effective pathway to resolving disputes.
3. Youth, Peace and Security Engagement
Recognizing the pivotal role of young people, MOUFPSD champions the Youth, Peace and Security agenda, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 2250. Our programmes provide young leaders with the skills, networks and platforms they need to drive change in their communities. By empowering youth, we invest not just in peace today but also in its sustainability for the future.
4. Walk for Peace
Our annual Walk for Peace has become a visible expression of solidarity and hope, uniting students, community leaders, diplomats and citizens in affirming their commitment to nonviolence and peaceful coexistence. It reminds us that peace begins with daily choices in our communities and relationships.
From Local Roots to Global Impact
Our work aligns with global frameworks such as SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Youth, Peace and Security agenda. Through these efforts, we have built bridges across divides, fostered trust among communities, and shown that peace is possible when rooted in justice, inclusion and dignity.
Why This Year Matters
As the world marks the 2025 International Day of Peace, the message could not be clearer: the time to act is now. Inaction fuels cycles of violence; silence perpetuates injustice. Our global community must move from rhetoric to action, strengthening institutions, empowering marginalized groups, addressing inequalities and tackling the climate crisis with urgency.
At MOUFPSD, we remain committed to scaling our work, from grassroots peace hubs to national and global platforms, ensuring that the voices of youth, women and communities most affected by conflict are not just heard but acted upon.
Choosing Peace Together
Peace is not a gift handed down from above; it is the product of intentional choices, collective action and sustained commitment. As we reflect on this year’s theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” let us remember that peace is possible, but only if we choose it, nurture it and defend it together.
From the National Social Impact Leaders’ Summit to our Peace Dialogues and Walk for Peace, MOUFPSD stands as a testament that when individuals and communities act with courage and vision, a peaceful world is within reach.
The International Day of Peace is more than an observance; it is a reminder of our shared responsibility to act today for a tomorrow where peace is the norm, not the exception.
