UN Secretary General preaches peace as world welcomes 2023

United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has stressed the need for the world to embrace peace in 2023 to build a more sustainable world.

In a message released by National Information Officer, United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Oluseyi Soremekun, Guterres said every new year is a moment of rebirth where the ashes of the old year is swept away in preparation for a brighter day.

He recalled that in 2022, millions of people around the world literally swept out ashes.

According to him, “from Ukraine to Afghanistan to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond, people left the ruins of their homes and lives in search of something better.”

Around the world, he observed that one hundred million people were on the move, fleeing wars, wildfires, droughts, poverty and hunger.

In 2023, he said: “We need peace, now, more than ever. Peace with one another, through dialogue to end conflict. Peace with nature and our climate. Peace in the homes, so women and girls can live in dignity and safety.

Speaking further, he said the world also needs peace on the streets and in our communities, with the full protection of all human rights. Peace in our places of worship, with respect for each other’s beliefs and peace online, free from hate speech and abuse.

He advised: “In 2023, let’s put peace at the heart of our words and actions. Together, let’s make 2023 a year when peace is restored to our lives, our homes, and our world.”