By: Yohannes Fentahun
On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Ethiopian Ministry of Peace organized a commemorative event in Addis Ababa, underscoring the critical role of peace and dialogue in sustainable development.
Held at the Hilton Hotel, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, diplomats, civil society leaders, and youth representatives. The program featured speeches and panel discussions centered on the theme "Cultivating a Culture of Peace," with an emphasis on the need for inclusive dialogue and cooperative efforts in building a peaceful society.
Dr. Aweke Atnafu, Chief Executive Director for Peace-building at the Ministry of Peace, reaffirmed the Ethiopian government's dedication to fostering peaceful coexistence and inclusive development. “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a foundation for building a prosperous and just society. We are committed to creating spaces for dialogue, addressing the root causes of conflict, and empowering all sectors of society to actively participate in peace-building initiatives,” he remarked.
Dr. Samuel Cbaydee Doe, UN Resident Coordinator in Ethiopia, highlighted the indispensable role of gender equality and women's empowerment in securing long-term peace. “When women and girls are empowered, their contributions to peace-building and development are transformative. Ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld is essential to building an inclusive and sustainable future,” he said.
The event concluded with a collective call to action, urging all stakeholders to actively engage in building a peaceful and prosperous Ethiopia. Participants were encouraged to foster dialogue, promote social cohesion, and invest in sustainable development initiatives that benefit all citizens.
The commemoration not only underscored the ongoing commitment of international organizations and the Ethiopian government to advancing peace, but also served as a poignant reminder of the shared responsibility to create a more just and peaceful world. It highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development for all.