When I joined Rotary back in 1998, I was surprised to find out that Rotary has a long history of promoting peace in the world. 

 

I always remember that Rotary served as a consultant to the US delegation at the United Nations (UN) Conference on International Organization, often referred to as the UN Charter Conference, in San Francisco in 1945.  Today, Rotary proudly holds the highest consultative status offered to non-governmental organizations by the UN’s Economic and Social Council (UNESCO).

 

 

Rotary launched the Rotary Peace Centers program in 1999, and the inaugural class of Rotary Peace Fellows began their studies in 2002.  These Centers are located at universities around the world, and as Rotary states on their rotary.org website “develop leaders who become catalysts for peace in local communities and on the global stage. They study the causes of conflict and build practical skills exploring innovative solutions to real-world problems in areas such as human rights, international relations, and global health and development.” 

 

To date, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1400 fellows who have gone on to serve as leaders and utilize their peace building skills in more than 115 countries.

 

On February 23 we also celebrate Rotary’s 117 birthday. This day is appropriately designated as World Understanding and Peace Day as we celebrate Rotary’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and tolerance around the globe.

 

Wishing you peace!