The International Day of Peace is dedicated to peace, and specifically the absence of war, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access. It is observed by many nations, political groups, military groups, and peoples.

To inaugurate the day, the "Peace Bell" is rung at UN Headquarters in New York City. The bell is cast from coins donated by childen from all contintents apart from Africa.  It was given as a gift by the United Nations Association of Japan, and is referred to as a "reminder of the human cost of war".  The inscription on its side reads: "Long live absolute world peace."