Rotary International proudly celebrates 121 years of service above self.

Rotary also recognizes this day as World Understanding and Peace Day, a date observed globally as World Peace and Understanding Day, commemorating Rotary’s founding and its enduring commitment to peace, dialogue, and goodwill among nations.

 

In the spirit of promoting peace, we reflect on the history of the Peace Poles.

The Peace Pole movement began in 1955, following the aftermath of World War II, when Japanese philosopher Masahisa Goi introduced the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth.”

 

This simple yet powerful message, displayed in multiple languages, became a global symbol of unity and hope.

 

Today, through the work of the Peace Pole Project, Peace Poles stand in more than 180 countries, serving as quiet reminders that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of understanding, respect, and cooperation.