United Nations Peace Messengers

Although the United Nations is unique in its broad international membership and mandate, the organization does not work alone in its efforts to create a better world. The United Nations carries out it s task as part of a dynamic network of governments, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, grass-roots groups and individuals. Each of these contributes, in its own way, to the creation of a more secure and peaceful world. The activates of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are an important component of this continuing global effort.

The United Nations works closely with NGOs, research institutions and cities worldwide in order to encourage and coordinate efforts for the promotion of peace and annually observes the International Day of Peace. In this context, there is now a broad network of NGOs and cities designated as “Peace Messengers”. This special designation is given by the Secretary-General in recognition of their contributions to peace and in appreciation for their continuing cooperation with the Untied Nations. Following the International Year of Peace (1986) the Untied Nations Peace Studies Unite was formed to encourage organizations and cities to work together with the Untied Nations for the promotion of peace and to coordinate Peace Messenger activities.

In a world of rapid and often unexpected change, recognition that people share many com on values can provide an important source of stability and solidarity. Such values also provide important perspectives for future action. Despite differences of nationality, culture or philosophy, people around the world share many common values. The desire for a just and peaceful world, a clean environment and equal opportunities of health care and education for all people are among the visions of a better world which are shared by people from every continent. “Global Cooperation fro a Better World” has provide important insight into the values which so many people share – and their potential for taking effective action toward their realization.

The Global Cooperation project, sponsored by the Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University, contributes important impetus to local and grass-roots efforts toward a more secure and peaceful world. The project began in 1988 and was the first project to be designated as a “Peace Messenger Initiative Dedicated to the Untied Nations”. In over 120 countries, the project has encouraged people to translate their thoughts about a better world into appropriate action in homes, schools, and communities. The work of such individuals and organizations is an essential complement to the efforts of national governments and the Untied Nations. The creation of a better world is clearly a task for everyone.

Dr. Robin A. Ludwig, Chief, UN Peace Studies Unit, 1998. “Visions of a Better World’, a UN Peace Messenger Publication.