
100-day Countdown to Peace Day UN SG's Message
Each year, on 21 September, the United Nations calls on everyone, everywhere, to observe 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire. Today, 100 days before the International Day of Peace, it is essential to remember that our common enemy is a virus that causes widespread suffering and risks reversing decades of human progress.
That is why, as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, I called on all warring parties to lay down their weapons. These are not normal times, and our responses cannot be routine. The pandemic is not just a health issue. It is having direct and troubling effects on development, peace and security.
Our global ceasefire appeal is resonating in many places and with many different groups. While distrust can make implementation difficult, I have been heartened by the strong support the appeal has received from civil society, which can influence and mobilize people at the grassroots.
This year’s theme for the Day, “Shaping Peace Together,” reflects the reason the United Nations was founded. Throughout this year, to mark our 75th anniversary, the United Nations is asking people to engage in a global conversation about how to tackle the greatest global challenges together, from climate change and poverty to racism and gender inequality.
Let us use these dialogues, as well as the International Day of Peace, to exchange ideas on how to achieve a global ceasefire, heal our planet and turn the COVID-19 crisis into an opportunity for peace. Let us build back better for more inclusive and peaceful societies.
António Guterres
Opening & Closing Session
Rev. Norio Sakai
Chairperson
IARF Japan Chapter
Keynote Speech & Dialogue

Mr. Won-soo Kim
Fromer Under SG
United Nations
Ms. Kehkashan Basu
Founder-President
Green Hope Foundation
Ms. Carolyn Colman
Senior
Jones Colleege Prep
Ms. Yuuka Kageyama
Postgraduate
Toshisha University
Ms. Go-oon Sohn
Freshman
Sungkyunkwan University
Peace Talks
Intergenerational Dialogue
(Nov. 13) Japan-Korea Conversation
Dr. Kentaro Azuma
Associate Professor
Nagoya University
Mr. Taewoo Kim
Deputy Secretary-General
KOCUN-IDP
Ms. Hinako Takasaki
Youth Representative
IARF Japan Chapter
(Sophia University)
Ms. Joo-young Kim
President
UNAI ASPIRE Korea
(Handong Global University)
Ms. Seo-an Kim
Manager
KOCUN-IDP
(Sukmyung Women's University)
Ms. Nene Tacheuchi
Youth Representative
IARF Japan Chapter
(Keio University)