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21 September 2026
4:00 PM Onwards
ITC Grand Chola, Chennai
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About the Congress

Invest in Peace

A Vision for Peaceful Coexistence

The International Day of Peace, observed annually on 21 September, represents the collective aspiration of humanity to promote peace, non-violence and peaceful coexistence.

For 2026, the United Nations has designated the theme: "Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day." The theme recognizes that peace is not simply the absence of war. It is a foundation for human security, dignity, opportunity and cooperation in everyday life.

The Second International Peace and Well-Being Congress 2026 will bring together leaders, diplomats, policymakers, educators, youth, civil society representatives, academics, humanitarian actors, business leaders and community advocates.

Thematic Pillars

Seven Pillars of Peace

The Congress is structured around seven key thematic areas addressing peace, well-being, and sustainable development.

I

Peace, Human Rights & Human Dignity

  • Human rights as a foundation for peace
  • Equality and non-discrimination
  • Justice, dignity and inclusion
II

Youth as Architects of Peace

  • Youth leadership and peacebuilding
  • Youth participation in decision-making
  • Digital citizenship and responsible technology
III

Education for Peace & Well-Being

  • Peace education
  • Social and emotional learning
  • Building empathy and critical thinking
IV

Peace, Health & Well-Being

  • Health as a foundation for peace
  • Mental and social well-being
  • Access to essential services
V

Sustainable Development & Peace

  • SDGs and peacebuilding
  • Climate change and human security
  • Resilient communities
VI

Dialogue, Tolerance & Social Cohesion

  • Interfaith and intercultural dialogue
  • Countering hate speech
  • Building trust between communities
VII

Everyday Peacebuilding

  • Community-led peace initiatives
  • Women and community peacebuilding
  • Local solutions for global challenges
Congress Programme

Event Programme

Registration & Networking

Arrival, registration, and networking opportunities

Opening Ceremony

Official opening with dignitaries and special guests

Special Address

"Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day"

High-Level Keynote Address

Distinguished keynote by a global leader on peace and well-being

High-Level Peace Dialogue

Peace, Human Rights & Well-Being – Panel discussion with global experts

Youth Dialogue

"Young People as Everyday Architects of Peace"

Peace & Well-Being Recognition Ceremony

Honoring "Everyday Architects of Peace"

Chennai Peace & Well-Being Commitment 2026

Presentation and endorsement of the commitment

Peace Pledge / Symbolic Peace Moment

A collective moment of peace through candle lighting

Networking Reception

Closing reception with continued dialogue and connection

Special Recognition

Everyday Architects of Peace

Peacebuilding
Human Rights
Youth Empowerment
Education
Community Development
Social Inclusion
Interfaith Harmony
Women's Leadership
Health & Well-Being
Sustainable Development
Humanitarian Action
Conflict Prevention
Digital Peace

Youth Engagement

Young people will be positioned as central stakeholders rather than merely participants. The Congress includes a dedicated Youth Dialogue on Peace & Well-Being.

  • What does peace mean to young people?
  • How can young people counter hate and polarization?
  • How can digital platforms become tools for peace?
  • What role can education play?
  • How can youth contribute to community well-being?
  • What investments are needed in the next generation?
Event Venue

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

ITC Grand Chola

A world-class luxury hotel in the heart of Chennai, offering state-of-the-art facilities for international conferences and events.

Location

69, Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600032, India

Airport

Chennai International Airport (MAA) - 15 minutes drive

Date & Time

21 September 2026 | 4:00 PM Onwards

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

Tamil Nadu, India Open in Google Maps
Join Us

Register for IPWBC 2026

Be part of this historic gathering on the International Day of Peace

Organizing Framework

Institutional Partners

An Initiative of Sustainable Development Council
Hosted By UNESCO Tamil Nadu Chapter
Supported By Act Now for Peace

Peace is an investment.

Invest in people. Invest in dignity. Invest in dialogue. Invest in education. Invest in health. Invest in youth. Invest in communities.

Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.