The Global PEACEFULNESS Prog

The UN Charter is clear: member countries shall refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. They shall act in accordance with international law, and they shall settle international disputes peacefully.

The Charter remains humanity’s best hope for peace.

But it is only as strong as the commitment of UN member countries to uphold it.

Happy birthday to UN Messenger of Peace Stevie Wonder!

Thank you for your tireless work to promote a more inclusive world for people with disabilities.

Global military spending surged to a record high of $2.2887 trillion in 2025 — that’s 776 times more than the United Nations' regular budget.

As funding for critical global priorities such as hunger relief, health services and sustainable development continues to shrink, a shift in global investment priorities is urgently needed.

⏰ Just three weeks left to apply for a fully funded Rotary Peace Fellowship!

The Rotary Peace Fellowship offers peace and development professionals from communities around the world the opportunity to earn a master’s degree or advanced postgraduate certificate in related fields at one of nine Rotary Peace Center partner universities worldwide.

Fellows gain high-level academic training, practical skills, and a powerful global network—preparing them to grow their careers, expand their leadership, and increase their impact.

👉🏽 Learn more about the fellowship and share this opportunity with someone who is ready to lead for peace: https://on.rotary.org/4lszHAz

Incidents of aggressive behaviour towards peacekeepers continue.

Yesterday, a United Nations logistics convoy was blocked by Israel Defense Forces Merkava tanks near Shama in southern Lebanon. The tanks directed their main guns at the peacekeepers and fired machinegun bursts within metres of the convoy, damaging a UNIFIL-PIO vehicle. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the convoy was forced to return to base.

Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix briefed the troop-contributing countries at the United Nations headquarters on Thursday, 9 April. At that meeting, he welcomed the joint statement by troop-contributing countries that was read out on this occasion. Mr. Lacroix said it sent a powerful and united message on the safety and security of our peacekeepers and expressed his gratitude for the solidarity it reflects.

He reiterated that any intimidation or interference with the Mission's activities must stop immediately and that all actors must adhere to their obligations to ensure the safety and security of the peacekeepers at all times.

He also reaffirmed that the safety and security of the peacekeepers is a top priority. UNIFIL is adapting its posture to the evolving security environment and strengthening force protection measures. Contingency planning continues to be closely reviewed and refined.

He saluted the bravery and courage of peacekeepers and the dedication and unity of troop-contributing countries in their support to peacekeeping missions in the service of international peace and security.