Guterres Urges Action as Peace Remains Elusive in a Fractured World

Peace Bell ceremony held at UN headquarters in observance of International Day of Peace 2025.

The UN Secretary-General on Friday called for stronger efforts toward peace in a “fractured world” marked by rising conflicts.

António Guterres made the appeal during the annual ceremony at UN Headquarters in New York to ring the Peace Bell.

Pursuing peace is “the beating heart” of the Organization, “but today, peace is under siege,” he said. “Conflicts are multiplying. Civilians are suffering. Human rights and international law are being trampled – leaving scenes that disgrace our common humanity.”

The ceremony precedes the International Day of Peace on 21 September, with this year’s theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”

“Peace doesn’t happen by accident,” Guterres said. “It is forged through courage, compromise, and above all, action.” He urged action “to silence the guns, amplify diplomacy, protect civilians, and uphold the UN Charter.”

“We must tackle the root causes of conflict – from inequality and exclusion to hate speech and climate chaos. We must invest in prevention, dialogue, and trust,” he continued. “And we must support peacebuilders – especially women and young people – who are on the frontlines of hope.”

UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock also addressed the gathering. Amid ongoing global conflicts, she stressed that the world would not see less war without the United Nations.

“This is not the moment to give up,” she said. “It’s a moment to try even harder.”

Guterres said, “Peace is the most powerful force for a better future. It is within our grasp – if we choose it.” He noted that the Peace Bell, cast in 1952 from coins and medals donated by people worldwide, symbolizes a collective yearning for peace.

“This Peace Bell reminds us that even the smallest contributions can forge something enduring. Even in a fractured world, we can come together to let peace ring. Let’s answer that call.”

The Japanese Peace Bell was gifted to the UN by the UN Association of Japan on 8 June 1954. Inscribed with eight Japanese characters meaning “Long live absolute world peace,” it is housed in a wooden structure resembling a traditional Shinto shrine. The bell is rung twice a year – on the first day of spring and the International Day of Peace.