Edited by: Muhammad Aamir
ABU DHABI, 20th September, 2023 (WAM) — The UAE has firmly established itself as a pivotal hub for endeavours dedicated to achieving global peace and stability, as well as fostering all aspects of development that benefit the progress and well-being of humanity.
Tomorrow, on Thursday, the UAE will observe the “International Day of Peace”, a day designated by the United Nations General Assembly to be celebrated annually on 21st September.
The UAE boasts a rich history of achievements that have played a crucial role in diffusing crises, resolving conflicts, and promoting peace and security worldwide.
In this report, the Emirates News Agency (WAM) will provide a detailed overview of the United Arab Emirates' extensive involvement in various peacekeeping initiatives and operations.
Over the past five decades, the UAE has taken an active role in numerous international peacekeeping endeavours. With a primary objective of alleviating the dire impacts of conflicts and wars on affected societies, the UAE has consistently emerged as a leading contributor to humanitarian relief and post-conflict reconstruction initiatives in regions grappling with strife and turmoil.
The UAE has adeptly cultivated strong diplomatic relationships with countries worldwide, spanning both the eastern and western hemispheres. These relationships are founded on principles of mutual respect, commitment to conflict resolution through dialogue and peaceful means, unwavering support for justice, and a dedication to promoting international stability and peace. The UAE has emerged as a global exemplar of tolerance and harmonious coexistence among peoples of varying backgrounds and cultures.
The UAE's diverse landscape is home to residents from more than 200 different nationalities, and the nation has established diplomatic ties with over 190 countries. Additionally, the UAE accommodates more than 110 foreign embassies, 73 consulates, and serves as the regional headquarters for numerous regional and international organisations.
The UAE's commitment to spreading the values of peace is exemplified by its initiation of a range of international awards that recognise and reward institutions and individuals actively involved in disseminating the culture of peace and tolerance globally.
Zayed Award for Human Fraternity
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, instituted in 2019, is a prestigious accolade honouring individuals and entities that champion peaceful coexistence across the world. Named after the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE and a devoted advocate of peace and tolerance, this award carries a substantial financial prize of US$ one million. It is presented annually on 4th February, designated as the International Day for Human Fraternity. The award acknowledges individuals and organisations from diverse backgrounds who tirelessly work towards promoting the values of solidarity, integrity, fairness, and optimism.
Since its inception, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity has recognised several prominent figures, including His Holiness Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church; His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar; United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres; anti-extremism activist Latifa Ben Zayaten; His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of Jordan; and Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, the Haitian humanitarian organisation "Foundation for Knowledge and Freedom" (FOCAL), the “Sant'Egidio Community” organisation, and Shamsa Abu Bakr Fadel, Kenyan peacemaker and human rights activist.
This award symbolises the UAE's resolute commitment to advancing peace and tolerance globally, celebrating the impactful work of individuals and organisations that bridge gaps between different cultures and religions.
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum World Peace Award
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum World Peace Award was established in 2011 to acknowledge and honour the exceptional contributions made by organisations and individuals to advance global peace and stability. This award is dedicated to promoting civilized interactions among diverse populations, encouraging a culture of initiative and excellence in peacekeeping, and highlighting the genuine essence of Islam as a religion that embodies principles of tolerance and peace.
Peace Poets
In 2014, the UAE International Award for Poets of Peace was introduced to honour literary works that significantly contribute to upholding the values of global tolerance. The inaugural award encompassed three distinct initiatives: an event dedicated to Arab poets, a gathering for poets from around the world representing various languages and cultures, and an event to recognise and celebrate peace poets.
In 2016, the first edition of the International Day for Poets of Peace initiative was held in Dubai. This groundbreaking initiative, a global first of its kind, aims to acknowledge the excellence of poets in advocating for love, brotherhood, and global peace. It serves as a platform for disseminating poetry's message of unity and hope while combating divisive and extremist ideologies.
International Day of Peace 2023
The International Day of Peace (IDP) is celebrated annually on 21st September. It is a day dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace through non-violence and ceasefire. This year's theme is “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals”.
The theme is a call to action that recognises our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace. Fostering peace contributes to the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and achieving the SDGs will create a culture of peace for all.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said, "Peace is needed today more than ever. War and conflict are unleashing devastation, poverty, and hunger, and driving tens of millions of people from their homes. Climate chaos is all around. And even peaceful countries are gripped by gaping inequalities and political polarisation."