After six years of working in crisis response in Northern Nigeria, I recently moved to the Pacific to work with the UN Development Programme. My time in Nigeria gave me insight into a complex insurgency that evolved from its modest beginnings into a full-blown crisis, fracturing the social contract between the people and their government.

The insurgency's roots can be traced to a small group of individuals who felt marginalized by society. Over time, it grew more complex, drawing in various groups for different reasons: Those who took up arms against the state, believing their rights were being disregarded; people who voluntarily joined the insurgency, viewing it as a financially viable form of employment in a region with limited opportunities; and  people who lost faith in the government's ability to protect them and provide essential services, as the conflict had stripped away their access to basic services and livelihood opportunities.

The contrast between my new home in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and my previous residence in Nigeria is very evident. For years, I lived in Borno, ironically known as the "Home of Peace," which had long since lost its serenity and calm aura. In contrast, FSM and Pohnpei truly embody the essence of tranquility.

Upon arrival in FSM, you're greeted by a picturesque Pacific paradise that welcomes you with open arms. The beautiful blue skies, majestic mangroves, pleasant people, and serene sea create an inviting atmosphere that exudes peace. As I've explored the beautiful garden island of Pohnpei, this sense of serenity has only deepened.

The island boasts remarkable attractions, including the archaeological splendor of the Nan Madol ruins, evidence of a once-thriving dynasty. Several stunning waterfalls, such as Kepirohi, dot the landscape, while captivating outer islands beckon to be explored. Magnificent hikes, like the Six Waterfall trek, offer breathtaking views and experiences.

Yet, the allure of Pohnpei extends beyond its natural and historical sites. The island's peaceful ambiance flows through its people, manifesting in a culture of respect, helpfulness, ease, and community. This pervasive sense of tranquility and warmth makes Pohnpei not just a beautiful destination, but a truly peaceful home.

I enjoy walks, but I'm probably one of the most unfit people you'll find. Still, hiking is a great way to have fun and see the island's beauty. At my friends' urging, I happily joined the seemingly short Sokeh's ridge hike. I won't lie – halfway through, I started wishing I'd eaten that morning. But my food daydreams were quickly interrupted by the sight of WWII anti-aircraft guns.

The scene was incredibly green and beautiful, with purple flowers growing on the side. Yet this innocence was betrayed by the obvious relics of war, witnesses to a not-so-peaceful past. As a territory of Japan during World War II, Pohnpei was caught in the crossfire. The remnants of coastal and anti-aircraft guns serve as stark reminders of this history.

The United Nations General Assembly designated 21 September as the International Day of Peace, to be observed as a day of non-violence and cease-fire. In light of the protracted armed conflicts and rising geopolitical tensions facing many countries, the need to amplify the call for peace becomes increasingly evident. The world has been affected by both the silence of violence and the noise of peace, yet the situation seems to persist. This day underscores the importance of reflecting on ways to promote peace and uphold the right to freedom for all.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the UN General Assembly's adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. The theme, "Cultivating a Culture of Peace," draws inspiration from this milestone. The declaration emphasizes values such as respect for life, human rights, and fundamental freedoms; promotion of non-violence through education, dialogue, and cooperation; commitment to peaceful conflict resolution; and adherence to freedom, justice, democracy, tolerance, solidarity, cooperation, pluralism, cultural diversity, dialogue, and understanding at all levels of society and among nations.

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres calls the culture of peace "a cause all us devotees of peace and justice must rally behind, this day and every day."

One thing that has stuck with me since arriving is something my Country Manager and Deputy Resident Representative, Kevin Petrini, said:

"The Pacific can teach peace to other parts of the world."

This is something he truly believes, and I've come to understand it too.

The culture of peace can only take root by imbibing a culture of respect for one another and for people's humanity. Being from Africa, where the concept of the culture of peace originated, I know respect is also very important there. However, it's more than just the semblance and perception of respect that matters. The other values in the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, and the prioritization of humanity, need to be at the forefront.

My experience working with the United Nations for the past nine years, be it in the crisis response or development support to governments, has shown that strengthening governance continues to be the key means of ensuring inclusion. 

When the voices of all are heard, marginalization reduces, services are provided, grievances and feedback mechanisms are in place, and mutual respect is the order of the day.

The social contract between government and citizens is strengthened. This facilitates and sustains peace. It is important to strengthen institutions, especially peace institutions. Creating platforms for social cohesion are also as important as creating advocacy and education to cultivate the culture and idea of peace in children and communities.

The promotion of peace platforms becomes more important with the growing effects of climate change, especially in Small Island-Large Ocean States, who have limited land and higher probability of environmental disasters. The potential impact of this on peace and security underscores the importance of the need to develop frameworks and actions for climate security. Water and land resource management, combined with proper planning, prevention, anticipation, and preparedness, are essential components of climate security. Effective management of water and sustainable land practices enhance resilience to climate impacts. 

While prevention and anticipation through risk assessments and early warning systems, and preparedness ensures that infrastructure and policies are in place to respond effectively. Together, these strategies safeguard ecosystems, food security, and livelihoods, reducing vulnerabilities and strengthening societies' ability to adapt to and mitigate climate change, thereby ensuring climate security and maintaining peace.

Therefore, on this International Day of Peace, as we lay down weapons and observe ceasefires, this should be the first in many steps in creating a movement for peace in the world.