International Day of Peace
This Sunday, 21st September, the world will pause to reflect on a shared aspiration: peace. The International Day of Peace, established by the United Nations in 1981, is a global call for non-violence, unity, and cooperation. This year’s theme—“Act Now for a Peaceful World”—is a timely reminder that peace is not passive. It’s something we must all actively work toward, in our communities, workplaces, and daily lives.
Everyone has a role to play, whatever your job and wherever you are from. We must all speak up against violence, hate, discrimination, and inequality and practice respect and embrace the diversity of our world.
There are many ways to act right now. Spark conversations about the urgent need for understanding, non-violence, and disarmament. Volunteer in your community, listen to voices different from your own, challenge discriminatory language in your workplace, report bullying both online and off-line, and take the time to verify facts before you post on social media.
For those of us in the legal profession, the message resonates deeply. Justice and peace are inextricably linked. Whether we’re advocating for fairness in the courts, supporting vulnerable clients, or shaping policy, our work contributes to a more just—and therefore more peaceful—society.
The United Nations is encouraging people everywhere to take practical steps: speak out against hate and discrimination, support human rights, and promote sustainability. Even small actions—like challenging harmful language, volunteering locally, or simply listening to someone with a different perspective—can help build a culture of peace.
Across the UK, events are being held to mark the day. In London, the Peace One Day concert at Wembley Arena will bring together artists, activists, and global leaders in a powerful celebration of unity and hope. In classrooms, offices, and homes, people will observe a minute’s silence at noon to honour victims of conflict and recommit to peace.
Manchester’s Commitment to Peace
Manchester has long been a city of activism, solidarity, and social justice—and this year is no exception. Here are just a few of the ways our city is marking Peace Day and promoting peace year-round:
Manchester Museum – Peace Day Celebration
On 21st September, the Manchester Museum will host a free, drop-in event from 12–3pm, featuring interactive activities including a digital peace trail, origami peace cranes, and a special talk on ancient gods and goddesses of peace. It’s a family-friendly, reflective afternoon designed to spark conversation and creativity around what peace means today. See further details HERE
Discover Peace Manchester
Discover Peace is a project about peace trails to make people aware of the importance of peace. Visit HERE for details of the Manchester Peace Trail and all of the venues – monuments, buildings and locations that you may have seen before, but now they disclose stories about people and activities with rich engagement for human rights, peace and democracy that took, or take, place – unknown to most of us.
Mayors for Peace – Manchester Chapter
Manchester is a proud member of the Mayors for Peace network, which promotes nuclear disarmament and peaceful cities. In 2024, the city hosted the European Executive Conference, reaffirming its commitment to peace on a global scale. The UK/Ireland chapter is coordinated right here at Manchester City Council.
I would like to invite our members to take a moment to reflect on what peace means in your own practice. How can we, as legal professionals, help reduce conflict, promote understanding, and support those most affected by injustice?
Let’s use this day not just to reflect—but to act.
Fran Eccles-Bech
Chief Executive
Manchester Law Society