On the International Day of Peace, September 21st 2008, the UN System turns its attention to the role of peacekeepers in promoting and strengthening human rights. Adding its voice to multitude calling for an end to war and conflict throughout the world, the United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (UN-INSTRAW) emphasizes the crucial role that gender equality plays in making peacekeeping more effective, sustainable and just.

Dar es Salaam – Messages on peace in text message, email, video and photo form are being solicited and sent around the world over “new media” channels to raise awareness of the International Day of Peace, 21 September.

The Tanzania Centre for Democracy organized the commemoration of the first International Democracy Day in Dar es Salaam, which was attended by representatives from government, civil society organizations, the media and diplomatic missions.