The exploitation of natural resources has proven to be a major driver of conflict in DRC and the Great Lakes region. Oil exploration in Virunga has followed the same track with a poor local engagement, the total exclusion of communities from decision making and the criminalization of local protests against oil.
In light of the fragility of the peace in this region and the price paid by the Congolese for the exploitation of their resources the only possible alternative for Virunga and its people is the sustainable development option.
Today on the 21st of September we come together to commemorate and strengthen the ideals of peace in the world.
We call on the DRC Government and the International Community to give positive evidence of their commitment to peace in Congo and to its people by promoting the green potential of this region and prioritizing areas for sustainable development, while avoiding the mistakes of the past.
SV
MORE ABOUT #PEACEDAY
“I call on all warring parties to lay down their weapons and observe a global ceasefire. To them I say: stop the killings and the destruction, and create space for lasting peace.”
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.
The theme of this year’s commemoration is “Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All” which aims to highlight the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. The work of the United Nations would not be possible without the initial partnerships that were active in its creation and the thousands of partnerships each year between governments, civil society, the private sector, faith-based groups and other non-governmental organizations that are needed to support the Organization in achieving its future goals.
The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by resolution 36/67
of the United Nations General Assembly to coincide with its opening session, which was held annually on the third Tuesday of September. The first Peace Day was observed in September 1982.
In 2001, the General Assembly by unanimous vote adopted resolution 55/282, which established 21 September as an annual day of non-violence and cease-fire.
The United Nations invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the Day, and to otherwise commemorate the Day through education and public awareness on issues related to peace.
Source: UN
SAVE VIRUNGA 