On the occasion of and in support of the International Day of Peace, September 21st, 2009, for which Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon gave the motto “We Must Disarm” (WMD), with a focus on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, the Universal Peace Federation offers the following affirmations:
First, human conflict and the resort to arms and weapons have their roots in the breakdown of human relationships, and the human failure to live up to our highest ideals and aspirations. Violence is a symptom of a moral and spiritual failure. If we are to eliminate violence and weapons of mass destruction, we must commit ourselves to a moral and spiritual awakening.
Second, lasting peace is secured not only through the reduction of nuclear arsenals but, more importantly, by the growth in solidarity among the whole human family and a recognition that we are all brothers and sisters who share a common spiritual and moral heritage. We are one family under God. It is this understanding that gives rise to the collective will to put an end to violent conflict.
Third, being the basic building block of society, the family serves as the primary school of ethics and should be the school where we learn to love, respect, and serve others. By strengthening marriage and family, we can educate our children to respect all people, thereby establishing a culture of peace. Once humanity learns to resolve conflicts without weapons, massive resources can be reallocated for human development.
Fourth, laws alone cannot change the culture of violence. Transformation must be undergirded by substantial educational programs aimed at promoting character education, conflict resolution, and a culture of service and peace. Men and women who are taught to fulfill their moral obligations and responsibilities toward others will respect and live for the greater good and fulfillment of others.
The Universal Peace Federation thereby resolves to join the United Nations to declare September 21st as the International Day of Peace.
For reports of UPF celebrations of the International Day of Peace 2009, click here.