Creating a Culture of Peace Through Education

At the High-Level Forum of the General Assembly on the Culture of Peace, the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, emphasized the role of education in discussing the implementation of the UN Program of Action on a Culture of Peace. “Through education, we teach children not to hate. Through education, we raise leaders who act with wisdom and compassion. Through education, we establish a true, lasting culture of peace,” said the Secretary General.

The high-level forum brought together civil society and diplomats to discuss the implementation of the UN Program of Action on a Culture of Peace, which was adopted in 1999.  Education is one of the areas of action, along with Understanding, Tolerance, Solidarity, and Peace, as means toward international security.

This event was held in advance of the High-Level Debate on a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence, organized by UNESCO, during the U.N. 67^th Session of the General Assembly, which meets from 20-28 September 2012 in New York City.

Education, particularly in situations of conflict, continues to be featured prominently on the agenda of the UN General Assembly when, on 26 September, Ban Ki Moon will launch the Education First Initiative.  This new initiative intends to make education a development priority and rejuvenate momentum toward achieving Education for All goals set for 2015.

For More Information:

Education Crucial to Engender a “Culture of Peace,” UN officials stress at General Assembly

Education and Culture of Peace at the Centre of Director-General’s Participation in UN General Assembly

General Assembly of the United Nations

Education First – UN Secretary-General’s Global Initiative on Education