Jeremy Gilley
Peace activist, Filmmaker (United Kingdom)
“In recognition of his contributions to creating a global movement that unites people’s hearts and actions for peace, transcending differences in politics, religion, race, and culture.”
Through his tireless lobbying, in 2001 the UN Member States unanimously adopted a resolution establishing the 21st of September as the UN International Day of Peace – an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence.
Profile
Jeremy Gilley MBE, born in the U.K. in 1969, is a peace activist and filmmaker. He became an actor in the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1986, and established a film company, P.U.R.E. Productions, in 1994.
Inspired by his grandfather, a war veteran, and guided from an early age by his interests in peace and tolerance, Jeremy founded the non-profit organization Peace One Day in 1999, and through his tireless lobbying, in 2001 the UN Member States unanimously adopted a resolution establishing the 21st of September as the UN International Day of Peace – an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence.
In addition, he has raised awareness of various global issues, such as climate change, with his unique approaches, using videos and music and involving people from various backgrounds, including individuals, schools, and companies.
Through a wide range of activities, such as lectures and music concerts, he has helped to spread recognition of the International Day of Peace. He has also made addressing serious social issues, including human rights, education and hunger, part of the International Day of Peace.
The close collaboration of Jeremy and Peace One Day Ambassador Jude Law with UNAMA, UNICEF, WHO and other UN agencies resulted in a ceasefire in the conflict in Afghanistan on the International Day of Peace from 2007 to 2010. In addition, 4.5 million children were vaccinated against polio in Afghanistan due to Peace Day agreements.
He is the recipient of many awards and honors, including the Order of the British Empire, the Africa Peace Award and the Carnegie-Wateler Peace Prize. His documentary film, The Day After Peace, featuring the establishment of the International Day of Peace and his activities in Afghanistan, won him numerous film awards, including the Most Inspirational Movie of the Year at Cinema for Peace 2009, the Cinema Vérité Award at Geneva Cinema Vérité, and the Best Documentary Award in the Zimbabwe International Film Festival.