Promoting peaceful coexistence in an era of global tension

UNAA
Jan 28
3 min read

28th January 2026

28 January 2026 marks the first International Day of Peaceful Coexistence. Peace means more than the absence of conflict — it means building societies where diversity thrives, rights are protected, and justice is shared by all. As conflicts intensify worldwide, the international day highlights the power of education, dialogue, and cultural understanding to counter fear and division, while reaffirming the international community’s commitment to the enduring values and principles of the United Nations.

**UNRIC Brussels** | “Enlightened Universe” by Spanish artist Cristóbal Gabarrón features 70 figures joining hands around a sphere symbolizing Earth.

“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.”

Albert Einstein

Commitment to Peaceful Coexistence and a Safe, Inclusive World

Peace is more than the absence of war; it is the ability to live together amid our differences—of sex, race, language, religion, or culture—while upholding the justice and human rights that make such coexistence possible. It is an ongoing process and a long-term goal that demands constant care, vigilance, and active participation from everyone.

As one of the five pillars of the 2030 Agenda—alongside People, Planet, Prosperity, and Partnership—peace is central to its vision. The Agenda’s preamble underscores the goal of fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, free from fear and violence.

With global instability and conflict on the rise, the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence serves as a platform to raise awareness of diverse cultures, values, ways of life, and beliefs, and to highlight the role of education in promoting tolerance.

The Day also offers an opportunity for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to the founding purposes and principles of the United Nations, as enshrined in international agreements and declarations over the years.

Key UN Documents Outline the Foundations of Peaceful Coexistence

United Nations Charter

As the cornerstone of international law, the Charter enshrines the principles essential to peaceful coexistence, including the sovereign equality of states, the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, the prohibition of the threat or use of force, and the promotion of friendly relations among nations.

Full text

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Lays the foundation for peaceful coexistence by affirming the dignity, equality, and rights of all people. By protecting freedoms and preventing discrimination regardless of race, religion, or culture, it fosters mutual respect and understanding. The UDHR provides the ethical and legal basis for building just, tolerant, and inclusive societies, essential for lasting peace and the prevention of conflict.

Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace

Outlines a framework for promoting non-violence, tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding. Emphasizing education, human rights, equality, and participatory governance, it addresses the root causes of conflict and builds trust among communities and nations. By fostering respect for diversity, eliminating discrimination, and encouraging inclusive dialogue, the Declaration supports peaceful coexistence and lays the foundation for lasting peace, security, and harmony.

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Background

On 4 March 2025, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/79/269, proclaiming 28 January as the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence.

The resolution emphasizes the role of Member States and stakeholders in promoting tolerance, respect for religious and cultural diversity, and human rights. It also invites all countries, international organizations, civil society, and the media to celebrate the International Day through meaningful activities that foster a culture of peace, inclusion, understanding, and solidarity.