The Day After Peace tells Jeremy Gilley's determined 10 year long quest to have peace day - September 21 - established as an internationally observed, annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence with a fixed calendar date. It is interesting and thought-provoking, highlighting some of the problems that are involved in trying to achieve a world of peace. It also provides important lessons for anyone who has a worthwhile cause they want to campaign for.
About International Day of Peace, September 21
This day was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. The first Peace Day was celebrated in September 1982.
Peace One Day
This organisation was founded by Jeremy Gilley in 1999 to document the efforts to create an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence with a fixed calendar date. In 2001, Peace One Day (POD) achieved its primary objective. United Nations General Assembly resolution (A/Res/55/282) was unanimously adopted by UN member states, formally establishing an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence on the UN International Day of Peace, fixed in the global calendar on 21 September – Peace Day. In 2002 the General Assembly officially declared September 21 as the permanent date for the International Day of Peace.
With Peace Day in place, POD’s main aim is to raise awareness of Peace Day 21 September. POD is a non-profit organisation, impartial and independent of any government, political persuasion, corporation or religious creed.
Trust
One of the first things that becomes obvious during Gilley's documentary is that if one is to be a peacemaker, bias - real or perceived - must be dealt with. Those who feel they have been betrayed are less inclined to lay down arms. Trust is essential for peace. The process of violence must be understood so as to get to the root of any hostility.
Peace Process
Jeremy Gilley pursues his goal with admirable determination and resourcefulness. There is showmanship and even political fervour. However, while these get initial attention, it would seem that sustainable peace will come from a process, an evolution rather than a revolution.
However, one day of ceasefire is valuable; even if it only gives those in conflict a chance to stop and think about what they are doing. Peace Day is a good beginning.
The Power of Influence
Following the example of the United Nations, Jeremy gets several famous people on the cause. It also emerges that the the institution of business is one of the most influential, especially as it works through informal networks.
Putting the Idea to the Test
The film’s breathtaking conclusion shows Gilley joined by Jude Law in war torn Afghanistan, seeking to spearhead a much needed vaccination against polio on Peace Day. Will peace prevail? Will lives be saved? Will their mission succeed?
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