THE United Nations International Day of Peace was observed on Sept 21 across the world. Its theme was “Together for peace, respect, safety and dignity for all”.

The day reminds us of the role the UN is playing in maintaining international order for peace and stability. However, in reality, the UN has failed to achieve this target.

The decreasing role of the UN amid Syrian civil war, Afghan war or the migration crisis in Europe has led the world order into the hands of dominating states like the US, China and Russia.

Sabre-rattling attitude of US President Donald Trump in his speech at the 72nd session of the General Assembly to destroy North Korea and withdraw Iran nuclear deal are grim reminders that the peace message cannot be achieved with such aggressive remarks from the UN platform.

It’s time the UN now effectively implemented the 2017 theme of international peace.

Jalil Raza
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, September 26th, 2017