9 | | OCTOBER, 20269Gl balThe International Day of Peace is observed an-nually on September 21 to promote peace, dialogue and cooperation among nations and communities.The observance highlights the importance of collec-tive efforts to prevent conflict and build a more peaceful world.The United Nations established the day to strengthen the ideals of peace and encourage non-violence.It provides an opportunity for governments, organi-zations, communities and individuals to reflect on the importance of cooperation in addressing conflict and division.Peace and stability are closely connected to economic activity. Conflict and social instability can disrupt supply chains, affect workforce availability, delay projects and create uncertainty for investment.Businesses operating across different regions may need to assess these risks and prepare strategies to maintain operations during periods of disruption.Consultants can support organizations through risk assessment, business continuity planning and stakehold-er engagement. Strategy and risk advisory professionals may help businesses identify operational vulnerabilities, evaluate external risks and develop response plans.Human resource consultants can also contribute by advising organizations on employee communication, workplace inclusion and policies that support respectful working environments.Clear communication and fair workplace practices can help organizations address concerns and maintain trust among employees.Consultants working in sustainability, governance and social impact may help businesses understand com-munity needs and strengthen engagement with local stakeholders.For example, organizations planning major projects may seek advisory support to consult residents, public institutions and community groups, document concerns and develop processes for responding to feedback.United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the shared responsibility of building peace in his message for the 2022 International Day of Peace.Guterres' message emphasized that peace requires participation and sustained effort rather than being treated as the responsibility of a single institution or group. Although the quote is from 2022, it remains rel-evant to discussions about cooperation among govern-ments, businesses and communities.Peacebuilding involves dialogue, collaboration and efforts to address concerns before they escalate. Con-sulting professionals may contribute through research, planning, risk monitoring and organizational support. Their work can help businesses and institutions make informed decisions in complex environments.However, consultants do not replace the role of gov-ernments, community leaders or specialist peacebuild-ing organizations.Their contribution is generally through analysis, fa-cilitation and implementation support, while effective outcomes depend on the participation of relevant stake-holders.The International Day of Peace is not itself a consult-ing-sector announcement. Instead, it provides a timely opportunity to consider how businesses and advisers can support responsible operations, stronger community re-lationships and organizational resilience.As the world marks the International Day of Peace 2026, Guterres' message serves as a reminder that build-ing peace is a shared responsibility. For the consulting sector, this connects with the work of helping organiza-tions understand risks, engage constructively and oper-ate responsibly in an interconnected world.IN FOCUS SCAN THE QR CODE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLEThe task of building peace belongs to every one of us. Now more than ever, we need global solidarity, commitment and mutual trust." -- António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE 2026: UN URGES UNITY
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