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Commemorating the International Day of Peace on Friday, the UN Chief, Antonio Guterres said young people’s voices, vision, and commitment play a critical role in shaping a more peaceful world.
Speaking to assembled youths at a virtual 2021 Youth Observance event, on the theme,’ Recovering Better for a Sustainable and Equitable World’, the Secretary-General called upon youths to stand firm in as much as speaking out against gender-based violence and other societal vices are concerned.
“You are leaders, changemakers, and advocates in our societies. Speak out against violence, discrimination, and inequalities. I challenge you to play your role in ensuring an end to conflicts worldwide, while also “leading the charge for urgent action on climate,” he said.
According to UN News, Guterres also asked young people to support the UN’s call for a global 24-hour ceasefire, “and for all parties to the conflict to commit to a lasting, sustainable peace”.
He said there was a need for young people to keep pushing governments and other leaders to close the vaccine gap between rich and poor countries and also to play a significant role in making noise about climate and protection of the environment and the planet.
“As we seek peace among and within nations, we need to seek peace with our planet, too. Extreme weather, melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and polluted air and water threaten our very existence”.
He also encouraged people to help the world recover better and stronger.
“Thank you for celebrating peace with us today, and every day. I count on your continued support as we work together to build a more equitable and sustainable world for all”, Guterres concluded.