International Day of Peaceful Communication is observed all across the world on October 7 each year. The day aims to encourage individuals and governments to solve conflict without resorting to any kind of aggression. On this day, people across the globe focus on communicating in a way that promotes peaceful dialogue as well as peaceful outcomes. This can prove useful, especially in situations that have for so long been subjected to violence. With peaceful talks and an open mind, almost any conflict can come to an end. Find out how the International Day of Peaceful Communication is observed in your country.
History of International Day of Peaceful Communication
International Day of Peaceful Communication was founded by Ruben M. West in 2019. The day was created to raise awareness of the power of peaceful communication. The celebrations intend to promote peaceful communication as the norm for families and communities as well as governments, and international institutions. International Day of Peaceful Communication should be observed by communicating in a way that focuses on cooperation, collaboration, and peace while tackling complicated issues of conflict, judgment, and intimidation.
Days such as the International Day of Peaceful Communication have become increasingly important in today’s age of unprecedented challenges. Divisive sentiments are at an all-time high, especially those spreading hatred and intolerance. Terrorism is fuelling violence, while violent extremism seeks to marginalize those who are already in compromised positions. In the poorest and least-developed parts of the world, climate-related disasters are worsening the existing situation and increasing forced migration. This has also led to a rise in violent crimes.
The barriers to peace are complex and steep. It is not possible for any country to resolve on its own and perhaps that’s why the International Day of Peaceful Communication has been adopted globally. This can be a successful venture only when there’s solidarity and joint action. We must establish a culture of peace and sustainable development along with human rights awareness, skills for peaceful relations, good governance, prevention of conflict, and peacebuilding. The road ahead is long but the International Day of Peaceful Communication is the start that we desperately need for a happier future.
International Day of Peaceful Communication timeline
Peacekeeping missions begin globally.
Conflicts arise out of proxy wars and psychological warfare.
Two out of three of its peacekeeping missions are successful.
U.N. Peacekeeping is accused of corruption and oversight.
International Day of Peaceful Communication FAQs
What are the four components of peaceful communication?
Peaceful communication can be expressed through four components — observations, feelings, needs, and requests.
What is a peace dialogue?
Peace dialogue is defined as a dialogue practice of mutual accommodation applied in different dialogue procedures to achieve social transformation.
How can dialogue be used to resolve conflict?
Dialogue is a process where the participants commit to listening, reflecting, and questioning with a curious mindset to seek a shared understanding. A resolution dialogue has the purpose of resolving conflict through dialogue.
How to Observe International Day of Peaceful Communication
Practice at home
Begin the celebrations of the International Day of Peaceful Communication at home. If there’s a conflict in your family, try to resolve it with dialogue alone. Also, try to understand the other person’s point of view.
Find out how your country celebrates it
Hearing about the International Day of Peaceful Communication for the first time? Find out how your country celebrates it and join the events of the day. You can also urge your elected representatives on how they plan to resolve conflicts in your area.
Raise awareness
The best way to observe the International Day of Peaceful Communication is by encouraging more people to observe the day and demand that their elected leaders solve conflicts with dialogue instead of violence.
5 Facts About Wars
Wars kill thousands of people
In World War II, more than 100,000 crewmen were killed alone.
Life goes on despite wars
Stanisława Leszczyńska delivered 3,000 babies at the Auschwitz concentration camp.
Necessary items are rationed during wartime
British soldiers got a ration of three sheets of toilet paper a day while Americans got 22.
Wars affect manufacturing
Only 139 cars were made in the U.S. during World War II.
Its effect is indelible
Only 20 percent of the males born in the Soviet Union in 1923 survived the war.
Why International Day of Peaceful Communication is Important
Hopes for peace
The first and foremost aim of the International Day of Peaceful Communication is to establish peace and harmony in place of conflict and aggression. This is the need of the hour.
A good practice
It is also important to apply the lessons of the International Day of Peaceful Communication to your everyday life. It can help you be level-headed and calm, and quickly and efficiently solve problems at home or the workplace.
It saves lives
Every year, thousands of lives are lost to conflict and wars. International Day of Peaceful Communication is a reminder that such deaths can be easily prevented if we encourage peace talks.
International Day of Peaceful Communication dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | October 7 | Tuesday |
2026 | October 7 | Wednesday |
2027 | October 7 | Thursday |
2028 | October 7 | Saturday |
2029 | October 7 | Sunday |