By NNANNA OKERE, VAASA
At a celebration to mark the International Day of Peace on Friday, September 21, Anthony Sopuruchi Anih, Coordinator of the Center for African Child and War Victims, an Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) based in Finland challenged world political leaders and citizens alike to give peace a chance in whatever decisions and policies they took.
According to him, the Center for African Child and War Victims goal was that every child in Africa will regain trust on humanity, enjoys peaceful society that cares for his/her well-being and future.
The Coordinator of CFACWV disclosed that: “Our mission is to contribute to policies that prevent, demobilize, rehabilitate and reintegrate into families or communities, African children who are victims of war and conflict”.
“Today is a day that encourages us to promote opportunities where children can contribute to peace building and sustainable development in their society,” he said.
Each year, the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on September 21. The General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.
The United Nations Member States adopted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015 because they understood that it would not be possible to build a peaceful world if steps were not taken to achieve economic and social development for all people everywhere, and ensure that their rights were protected.
The Sustainable Goals cover a broad range of issues, including poverty, hunger, health, education, climate change, gender equality, water, sanitation, energy, environment and social justice.
Sustainable Development Goal 16 “Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions” calls for promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
A peaceful society is one where there is justice and equality for everyone. Peace will enable a sustainable environment to take shape and a sustainable environment will help promote peace.
With the 2018 Theme: “The Right to Peace – The Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 70” The theme celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a milestone document in the history of human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 as a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations.
In his message to observe the peace day United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres noted that “It is time all nations and all people live up to the words of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which recognizes the inherent dignity and equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human race. This year marks the 70th anniversary of that landmark document.”
The Universal Declaration states in Article 3. “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.” These elements build the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.
