Peace Bell Rings in Ankara to Commemorate International Day of Peace

The International Day of Peace was observed at Botanik Park in Ankara with a Peace Bell Ringing Ceremony organized by Turkish Japanese Foundation and UN Türkiye. The ceremony was attended by members of diplomatic community, academia, civil society and UN Türkiye staff.  

Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, the UN Resident Coordinator in Türkiye, emphasized this year’s theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” stating that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but requires active engagement in dialogue, understanding, and cooperation. He highlighted the significance of this day, marking the 25th anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. “The ringing of the Peace Bell symbolizes not just a call to action but a message of hope,” he noted.

Ahonsi also reflected on the words of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who urged everyone to nurture a culture where equality, peace, and justice thrive. He expressed concern over the escalating global conflicts and crises, stating, “From Ukraine and Gaza to Sudan and Myanmar, violence and unrest are spreading, and people everywhere are desperately searching for a glimmer of hope.”

Concluding his remarks, Ahonsi quoted Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, saying, “Yurtta sulh, cihanda sulh” – "Peace at home, peace in the world," reinforcing the importance of peace as a shared commitment. 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emin Özdamar echoed these sentiments, recalling the painful legacy of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki nearly 80 years ago. He lamented that despite these historical lessons, the world remains plagued by wars and conflicts. “When peace is everyone’s common goal, the world will be a more beautiful place,” he stated.

Takero Aoyama, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Japanese Embassy, highlighted the current global challenges, asserting that the foundation of the postwar international order is under threat. He emphasized the importance of maintaining an international order where the rule of law prevails, declaring, “The changing status quo by force must never be successful.” Aoyama expressed confidence that the UN will continue to play a central role in developing such an order.

The ceremony concluded with the ringing of the Peace Bell, a powerful symbol of hope and a call to action for peace, reminding all present of the responsibility to foster a culture of peace in their communities and the world.

Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi's full speech is available at https://turkiye.un.org/en/279409-international-day-peace-peace-bell-ringing-ceremony-2024

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