Meaning: The quote refers to an important historical event, the opening of the first Peace Conference at The Hague on the eighteenth of May. The speaker, Fredrik Bajer, suggests that this date should be celebrated internationally as a reminder of the significance of the event. The Peace Conference at The Hague marked a significant milestone in the pursuit of global peace and diplomacy, and its impact continues to be felt today.

The first Peace Conference at The Hague took place from May 18 to July 29, 1899, and was a groundbreaking gathering of representatives from 26 countries. It was convened at the initiative of Czar Nicholas II of Russia, and the primary goal was to discuss and negotiate disarmament and the peaceful resolution of international disputes. The conference resulted in the adoption of several key conventions and declarations, including agreements on the laws and customs of war, the establishment of an international court of arbitration, and the creation of the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

Fredrik Bajer, the author of the quote, was a Danish writer, teacher, and pacifist who played a prominent role in the peace movement of his time. As a co-founder of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1908, Bajer was deeply committed to advocating for peaceful conflict resolution and international cooperation. His words reflect the significance of the Peace Conference at The Hague as a pivotal moment in the history of peacebuilding efforts.

The call for the date of the conference to be celebrated internationally underscores the enduring relevance of the event. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of diplomacy, dialogue, and multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting peace. By commemorating this date, people around the world can honor the efforts of the individuals and nations that came together to pursue a vision of a more peaceful world.

In the context of contemporary international relations, the legacy of the Peace Conference at The Hague remains pertinent. The principles and agreements that emerged from the conference laid the groundwork for subsequent efforts to establish international legal frameworks, institutions, and mechanisms for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The establishment of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, in particular, represented a significant step towards creating a forum for resolving disputes between states through peaceful means.

Furthermore, the spirit of the Peace Conference at The Hague continues to inspire international initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations. The conference demonstrated the potential for dialogue and negotiation to avert conflicts and mitigate the impact of war. Its legacy can be seen in the ongoing efforts of governments, organizations, and individuals to address global challenges through diplomatic means and to uphold the principles of international law and human rights.

In conclusion, the quote by Fredrik Bajer highlights the historical significance of the first Peace Conference at The Hague and urges for its commemoration as an occasion of international celebration. The conference marked a pivotal moment in the pursuit of global peace and the establishment of mechanisms for peaceful conflict resolution. Its legacy continues to resonate in contemporary efforts to promote diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation among nations. By recognizing and honoring the significance of this event, we reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of peace and international solidarity.