March for peace Perugia Assisi 1999

This is a summary of the message of Kofi Annan, the Secretary General of the UN, at the Third Assembly of the UN of the Peoples

The Secretary General, Mr Kofi Annan, expressed his best greetings to the Peace Round Table and to the Co-ordination of the Local Authorities for Peace for their engagement in involving the Italian civil society in their efforts for peace, social justice and democracy in the world. He also expressed his support to all the peoples whose representatives are present at the Assembly to discuss issues of major importance in the life of each of us, to put an end to wars, impunity, poverty and juvenile work. Their warning about these problems and the new challenges of globalisation represents an invitation to reflect and take action in order to make a better world in the XXI century. Their contribution is precious in preparation of the Millennium Assembly, which will be held next year. Mr Annan encouraged them to continue their work, in order to help create a world of peace, equality, justice and respect of human rights.

Mr Annan underlined the fact that real peace is not merely the absence of wars. It is a much more profound issue that involves economic development and social justice. It entails the protection of the world's environment and the end of the global commerce of weapons. Peace has to do with the respect and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. It is not an easy project, but it is attainable by means of a transformation of our way of thinking, a strong political will and the solidarity of the entire human kind. Every one of, young, old, rich and poor people, governments as well as the civil society, must do something to support this crucial project. The creation of the UN to “save the future generation from the scourge of wars” is but the beginning. The existence of peace depends on every one of us and the Culture of Peace can become an asset for the entire human kind.