Everyday Peace at U Thant House

On 16 June 2026, the former home of U Thant, the third Secretary-General of the United Nations, in Yangon became a place for dialogue and reflection, as around 50 students gathered for a youth-focused peacebuilding event organized by the United Nations in Myanmar. The event brought together students, educators, and representatives from the United Nations to explore what peacebuilding means in everyday life and how young people can contribute to stronger, more connected communities.  

There could have been no more fitting venue. U Thant House holds a special place in the history of Myanmar and the United Nations. Throughout his tenure as Secretary-General, U Thant guided the international community through periods of global tension and crisis with patience, diplomacy, and a steadfast commitment to dialogue. Today, his legacy continues to inspire new generations to build understanding across differences. 

The event formed part of the first-ever United Nations Peacebuilding Week, a global initiative marking 20 years of international efforts in peacebuilding and conflict prevention. As communities around the world reflected on the importance and the meaning of peace, students in Myanmar were invited to consider how peace begins not only through negotiations, but through simple actions rooted in kindness, respect, empathy and inclusion. 

Students participated in a guided tour of U Thant House, documentary screenings and educational activities that introduced them to U Thant’s life, values and contributions to international cooperation and global peace. 

A highlight of the day was the “UN Peace Passport” activity. Students received a personalized passport and collected stamps or stickers from different UN booths as they participated in activities. More than a fun learning tool, the peace passport encouraged curiosity, interaction, and discovery, while also serving as a meaningful keepsake from the day. Additionally, students also participated in storytelling sessions. 

The event also featured a display of UN and U Thant commemorative stamps, showcasing important moments in the history of international cooperation and peacebuilding. In recognition of U Thant House’s ongoing efforts to preserve and share U Thant’s legacy, the acting Resident Coordinator donated a collection of commemorative stamps to them. During the opening remarks, the acting Resident Coordinator encouraged students to think of peace not as an abstract concept, but as something “built through everyday choices”, such as listening, understanding, and building bridges between people and across differences.  

Feedback from teachers and participants was highly positive, noting the engaging and interactive nature of the event. The event also highlighted the value of collaboration across different UN entities in engaging young people around themes of learning, dialogue and community participation. 

As students reflected on what they had learned, they were encouraged to think about a powerful question inspired by U Thant’s legacy: “What kind of bridge can you build?” – a reminder that everyone has a role in creating a more peaceful and united future. 

This event was organized jointly by the United Nations Office of the Resident Coordinator, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNESCO, UNIC, and UN Volunteers. We extend our sincere thanks to the students, teachers, and U Thant House who participated and contributed to making the event a meaningful and engaging experience.