The United Nations marks the International Day of Peace on September 21st every year, and this year's celebration comes at a time when the need for peace seems more urgent than ever. The world is witnessing numerous conflicts and armed struggles, resulting in the displacement of tens of millions of people. The theme for this year's International Day of Peace is "Investing in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day."
According to the Global Peace Index 2026, issued by the Institute for Economics and Peace, the global peace level has reached its lowest point since the index was first published nearly two decades ago. The index shows that the average global peace level has declined by 0.7% compared to the previous year, marking the 12th consecutive year of decline. A total of 99 countries have seen a decline in their peace level, while 62 countries have shown improvement.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reports that global military spending reached a record high of approximately $2.9 trillion in 2025. The institute also notes that there were 49 countries with active armed conflicts in 2025, resulting in around 238,000 deaths, one of the highest levels recorded in recent years. The consequences of conflicts extend beyond casualties and military spending, with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees reporting that the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide reached 117.8 million by the end of 2025.
The Middle East and North Africa region remains the least peaceful area globally, according to the Global Peace Index 2026. The region saw a significant escalation of military actions in early 2026, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran and the subsequent Iranian response. The Yemen conflict continues to deteriorate, with renewed clashes and military escalation, resulting in the displacement of over 112,000 people as of September 18.
The situation in Gaza also remains unstable, with continued Israeli airstrikes on populated areas, leading to casualties and further displacement. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that most of Gaza's 2.1 million residents live in overcrowded displacement sites, facing restrictions on access to basic supplies, funding shortages, and difficulties accessing water and essential services.
The International Day of Peace has its roots in a 1981 UN General Assembly resolution, which designated a yearly day to promote peace and its principles. The day was first observed in September 1982, and in 2001, the General Assembly fixed September 21 as the permanent date for the celebration. During the "Peace Bell" ceremony this year, the President of the 81st UN General Assembly, Khalil Rahman, emphasized that peace must be built and that its construction is a shared responsibility.
As the world marks the International Day of Peace in 2026, the rising number of conflicts, military spending, and humanitarian displacement indicate that peace remains elusive in many regions. The UN and other international institutions face challenges in ending wars and preventing new conflicts from erupting. The situation in the Middle East and North Africa, in particular, demands attention and concerted efforts to address the root causes of conflicts and promote sustainable peace.
Key points
- The global peace level has declined for the 12th consecutive year, with 99 countries experiencing a decline in peace.
- Military spending reached a record high of $2.9 trillion in 2025, with 49 countries experiencing active armed conflicts.
- The Middle East and North Africa region remains the least peaceful area globally, with ongoing conflicts in Yemen, Gaza, and other areas.
