When the United Nations was founded after the Second World War, one of its main aims was “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind” and to this end “to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours, and to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security”.

The Charter goes on to mention the word “peace” 50 times.

The prevention of conflict is one of the Security Council‘s major tasks.

Peacebuilding by the UN has gradually developed in importance over the years.

In Article 29-1 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, States Parties (which includes the United Kingdom) agree that the education of the child shall be directed (among other things) “to the preparation of the child for responsible life in a free society, in the spirit of understanding, peace, tolerance, equality of sexes, and friendship among all peoples, ethnic, national and religious groups and persons of indigenous origin”.