Full definition given by the UN Declaration
The culture of peace can be defined as the set of values, attitudes, traditions, behaviors and lifestyles based on :
a) Respect for life, the rejection of violence and the promotion and practice of non-violence through education, dialogue and cooperation.
b) Respect for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of States, and non-intervention in matters which are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any State, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and international law.
c) Respect for and promotion of all human rights and fundamental freedoms
d) Commitment to peaceful conflict resolution
e) Efforts to meet the development and environmental needs of present and future generations.
f) Respecting and promoting the right to development
g) Respecting and promoting equal rights and opportunities for women and men
h) Respect and promotion of everyone’s right to freedom of expression, opinion and information.
i) Adherence to the principles of freedom, justice, democracy, tolerance, solidarity, cooperation, pluralism, cultural diversity, dialogue and understanding at all levels of society and between nations; and encouraged by a national and international environment conducive to peace.
See also:
– UNESCO’s definition of education for a culture of peace.
– the full declaration: Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace.
– other definitions of the culture of peace in this dictionary
– these definitions have been adapted for use in the classroom for children.