On September 21, the Chadian government and the United Nations system in Chad organized an official ceremony to mark the International Day of Peace. The event, themed "Investing in Peace for All, Everywhere, and Every Day," was presided over by Prime Minister Allah-Maye Halina at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ceremony brought together high-ranking officials, including the Mediator of the Republic, Saleh Kebzabo, and the UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. François Batalingaya.
In his opening address, Dr. François Batalingaya emphasized that investing in peace means strengthening national capacities to prevent tensions, resolve disputes peacefully, and build social cohesion. He highlighted the importance of accessible institutions, dialogue, participation of women and youth, and addressing factors of fragility such as natural resources, climate, and regional crises. The UN Resident Coordinator's remarks underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to achieving lasting peace.
Mediator of the Republic Saleh Kebzabo echoed the UN Resident Coordinator's sentiments, stressing that peace cannot be reduced to a slogan. He emphasized that peace is an investment in security, stability, development, human dignity, and the future. Kebzabo cited the humanitarian crisis caused by the absence of peace, including the presence of over two million Sudanese refugees in Chad since April 2023.
The Mediator of the Republic also highlighted the government's commitment to peace and reconciliation, citing the President of the Republic's program to strengthen peace, national reconciliation, and security. Kebzabo outlined the Mediature's efforts, including the development of a National Strategy for Social Cohesion and a National Strategy for Reconciliation and Peace Consolidation.
Prime Minister Allah-Maye Halina concluded the ceremony by emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in promoting peace. He called on participants to make the International Day of Peace a meaningful event, stressing that the peace left to future generations will depend on the courage to build it today.
The ceremony featured a high-level panel discussion aimed at exploring shared responsibilities and concrete actions to achieve lasting peace. The panel provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and identify ways to promote peace and stability in Chad.
The International Day of Peace ceremony in Chad highlights the government's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the country. With over two million refugees and internally displaced persons, Chad faces significant humanitarian and security challenges. The event demonstrated the importance of collaboration between the government, UN, and other stakeholders in addressing these challenges and building a more peaceful future.
Key points
- The Chadian government and the UN system emphasized the need for concrete actions to promote peace and stability in the country.
- The Mediator of the Republic highlighted the importance of investing in peace, citing the humanitarian crisis caused by the absence of peace.
- The International Day of Peace ceremony in Chad brought together high-ranking officials and stakeholders to promote peace and stability.
