On September 21, the International Day of Peace, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) celebrates the recent Abraham Accords Peace Agreement in the Middle East, and we recognize the peacemakers everywhere who dream of, and strive for, peace within and among all nations and peoples. These dedicated men and women, some of whom work for USAID and our partners, step in where others refuse to do so, to extend a helping hand and the olive branch of peace.

To promote peace, USAID conducts assessments on the causes and drivers of conflict and violence, and supports education and public-awareness programs that aim to mitigate these disputes. USAID's programs advance civic values and engagement, by enabling positive interactions among ethnically diverse groups-- as well as access to justice and respect for human dignity and universal human rights. Our peacebuilding programs give voice and visibility to marginalized populations, including ethnic and religious minorities, in the political and democratic processes.

Around the world today, our common challenge is a global pandemic that is actively threatening our health, security and our way of life. This new virus requires solidarity and cooperation across borders, which is especially meaningful during these unprecedented times.

As we work towards a more peaceful world, it is important to note that USAID strives to reduce the reach of conflict; prevent the spread of pandemic disease; and counteract the drivers of violence, instability, transnational crime, modern slavery, and other security threats.