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Military spending reached a record $2.7 trillion last year, undermining diplomacy and draining resources from critical areas like hunger and poverty, warns a .

A group of young girls participating in a candlelight ceremony to mark the International Day of Peace in Colombia.

In today’s uncertain times, it’s crucial for everyone to mobilize for peace. From peacekeepers to community members and students, we all have a role to play. Speak out against violence and discrimination, volunteer, and challenge hate in your surroundings. Support socially conscious brands and donate to organizations promoting human rights. The UN plays a key role in advancing human rights and addressing root causes of violence through its Peacebuilding Commission and Sustainable Development Goals. On International Day of Peace (21 September) let our actions for peace speak louder than words.

Hands joined for teamwork and cooperation

In the digital age, information and communication technologies (ICT) and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming policing worldwide. These tools enhance data analysis, intelligence sharing, and cross-border cooperation against cybercrime, terrorism, and organized crime. Yet, when misused, they pose serious risks. On International Day of Police Cooperation (7 September 2025), the UN highlights the need to harness ICT and AI responsibly. International collaboration can ensure innovation benefits society by fostering transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.

Image of a nuclear test explosion in the United States.

This year, the International Day against Nuclear Tests (29 August) comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing nuclear risks — including the disturbing prospect of a return to nuclear testing. In 2025, we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the first nuclear test. We must never forget the legacy of over 2,000 nuclear weapons tests carried out over the past eight decades. The effects of these explosions have been horrific. Now is the time to silence the bombs before they speak again.

UNIFIL peacekeepers release doves in celebration of International Day of Peace.

The world faces increasingly complex threats, from nuclear tensions to violations of the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. Born in 1945 “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”, the UN continues to lead efforts in conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and post-war recovery. As Secretary-General AntĂłnio Guterres reminds us: “If war is a choice, peace can be too. It is time for a recommitment to peace.” Let’s join forces to build a more peaceful future. Learn more about the UN’s role in advancing Peace and Security.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) in Japan, at sunset.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, on 6 and 9 August. Every year, Hiroshima holds the Peace Memorial Ceremony to console the souls of those lost to the atomic bombing, as well as pray for the realization of lasting world peace. Weapons of mass destruction, in particular nuclear weapons, remain a major concern due to their destructive power and threat to humanity. The UN has sought to eliminate such weapons ever since its establishment. Let’s work together to banish these devices of destruction to the history books, once and for all.

Amid Gaza’s escalating conflict, repeated displacement, blockades, and resource shortages severely limit safe spaces and support services for women survivors of violence and abuse.

When conflict dominates the news, children often feel scared or anxious and look to their parents for reassurance and a sense of safety.

Through a partnership with Denmark, UNOPS has helped restore essential services in war-impacted Mykolaiv, Ukraine—delivering waste trucks, water towers, firefighting equipment, and buses to support local resilience and daily life.

A new UN Women warns that half of women-led and women's rights organizations in humanitarian crisis zones may close within six months due to funding cuts, jeopardizing vital services for millions of women and families. In a survey of 411 organizations across 44 crisis-affected countries, 90% reported financial impacts from reduced foreign aid, with over 60% already cutting back on services like emergency healthcare and shelter. Between 2021 and 2022, women’s rights organizations received less than 1% of humanitarian aid funding and heavily depend on government support, which is now diminishing. These organizations play a crucial role in delivering essential humanitarian services in , , , and .

After surviving a , 70-year-old Nadiia found safety, shelter, and healing thanks to UNHCR’s rapid response and .

UN experts warn that the unprecedented destruction in Gaza has left nearly all of the region's one million children suffering from severe psychological trauma and acute food shortages.

UNFPA Deputy Executive Director, Andrew Saberton, stresses that women and girls continue to bear the brunt of the conflict in Lebanon.

As , the humanitarian crisis worsens, but amidst the destruction, stories of resilience and hope still to shine through.