On 21 September, UMN Thapathali staff started the day by gathering to reflect on World Peace Day and to consider one commitment they could make towards peace through their life and actions. Peace and protection and conflict sensitivity are key part of UMN’s work. 

This year’s theme, ‘End racism, build peace,’ reminds us to connect and believe that tiny actions can have a bigger impact in creating a more peaceful world.

Following this year’s theme, UMN’s clusters celebrated the International Day of Peace on 21 September by organising peace rallies and events in co-ordination with the local government, security, and local judicial committees. Peace rallies took place in five clusters alongside a variety of other activities. UMN helped to organise: an interfaith dialogue in Kapilvastu, a speech competition in Rukum, an interaction programme in Bajhang on how casteism can be minimised, cultural celebrations among different ethnic groups in Mugu and Nawalparasi and even a cleanliness programme in Nawalparasi. We didn’t want to miss this opportunity to promote peace in our communities!