Peace and Security

An illustration of a boy with a paper dove, a woman voting, a knotted gun sculpture, a peacekeeper, two flying doves, and a woman holding an object, set against a blue and yellow background.

Securing a peaceful future

Responding to a world in transition

A changing world demands a resilient response. The United Nations employs a diverse range of mechanisms and tools to prevent conflict, foster people-centered, peaceful resolutions, and build sustainable peace, including through diplomacy, mediation, disarmament, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, justice and the rule of law, to address the evolving threats to international peace and security.

A photo montage of accomplished UN Peacekeepers

UN Peacekeeping: Protecting lives, building futures

Since 1948, UN Peacekeeping has been one of the most globally recognized symbols of the world’s ability to come together to help countries move from conflict to peace.

An photo of the SG talking to peacekeepers

UN Chief: Time to give peace a fighting chance

Conflicts are intensifying. Trust in global cooperation is weakening. The world cannot shortchange peacekeepers and the communities and people who depend on their lifesaving work.

Photo a smiling solider in a UN blue helmet

More than blue helmets

They work in some of the world’s toughest environments to protect people and prevent conflict. But how much do you really know about UN “Blue Helmets”?

An UNMAS deminer clearing an anti-tank mine found on 26 January 2023 in Bunj residential area, Maban State, Upper Nile State, South Sudan

Hidden explosives continue to threaten communities

After a conflict, after the guns fall silent, the legacy of war often remains hidden beneath the soil. Learn more about mine action in South Sudan.

An illustration a handgun with a knotted barrell'

Disarmament by the numbers

World military spending continues to soar. The human and economic toll of violence remains staggering. Learn more about the need for disarmament and arms control.

Wars destroy. Peace builds. In today’s troubled world, building peace is a conscious, bold and even radical act. It is humanity’s greatest responsibility.”

United Nations Secretary-General (António Guterres, 7 July 2024)

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres

Fast facts

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Watch and listen

A model of UN Peacekeeping: Timor-Leste

During the turbulent early years of Timor-Leste’s independence, the UN was a constant presence, helping to maintain peace and stability. Twenty-four years on, the country has made the successful transition from a host nation for UN peacekeeping operations, to one that contributes to supporting missions elsewhere.

Voices for peace

A photograph of farmers harvesting plants

Laos: Farmers cultivate an opium-free future

Farmers in the mountains of northern Laos are forging a more secure and sustainable future by cultivating coffee in an area historically known for opium production.

A photograph of a smiling mother feeding her children

South Sudan: Every piece for peace

In a country still healing from years of conflict, safety is fragile. Communities are rebuilding and peacekeeping operations are a necessity. Here’s a UN Volunteer’s story from South Sudan.

A photograph of a refugee family living in a make shift tent in a street

Lebanon: delivering aid where it’s needed most

Undeterred by dire security challenges, UN Volunteers continue to provide essential aid and services to communities that need help.

Key UN events

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International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

24 April 2025

No country can solve today’s challenges alone. The international day acts as a reminder that dialogue, diplomacy and multilateral solutions provide the surest path to a peaceful and just world.

Photo of UN peacekeepers lined up and standing at attention

International Day of UN Peacekeepers

29 May 2025

For 77 years, UN peacekeepers have worked to save and change lives in the world’s most fragile political and security situations. The international day pays tribute to the more than 2 million people who have served under the UN flag in over 70 peacekeeping missions since 1948.

Photo of Awareness raising session at UN Women Multi-Purpose Women’s Centres

International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

19 June 2025

In recent years, conflict-related sexual violence has risen dramatically. The International Day calls for an end to the devastating form of attack and repression that has affected so many lives.

An illustration showing four hands each holding a puzzle piece, coming together to form a dove of peace.

Voices for peace

A photograph of a person showing the back of their orange sweatshirt, showing messages against violence against women

Solomon Islands: ‘We deserve to be safe’

Globally, one in three women experience violence in their lifetime. Meet Rolyn who works as a team leader at a local crisis centre for women and girls facing gender-based violence in a country where the prevalence of violence against women is even greater.

A photograph of a group of women, with the central figure draped in a colourful flag.

Argentina: ‘Women’s rights are universal rights’

Irene Cari, an indigenous activist, is a leading voice in the fight against racist sexual violence and femicide. Her association offers crucial support to women and girls experiencing various forms of abuse, including sexual abuse.

A photograph of a man and a woman looking into the camera

Kazakhstan: ‘Together, we can transform society’

The tragic murder of his sister in 2023 by her husband became a catalyst for Aitbek Amangeldi. Driven by this devastating loss, he founded an initiative dedicated to supporting survivors of gender-based violence.

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Key UN Events

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International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Every 10 minutes, a woman is killed. The international day marks the launch of the UNiTE campaign—an initiative of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence concluding on the International Human Rights Day.

25 Nov 2024

A photograph of a kneeling person in camouflage clothing and a gas mask in a field, disposing of a remnant of chemical warfare

Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare

The international day provides an opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of chemical warfare and reaffirm commitment to achieving a world free of chemical weapons.

30 Nov 2024

A photograph of blurred figures moving through a metropolitan space

International Migrants Day

People on the move are powerful drivers for development in both their origin and destination countries. The international day celebrates the contributions of millions of migrants worldwide.

18 Dec 2024

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