The International Day of Peace is observed worldwide every September 21. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1981, it was originally observed on the third Tuesday of September before being fixed to its current date in 2001. This day is also known as World Peace Day and is marked by a ceasefire in combat zones, allowing civilians access to humanitarian aid. The United Nations Peace Bell is rung annually to commence the observance, symbolizing the human cost of war; it was cast from coins donated by children from various continents, excluding Africa, and presented to the USA. The observance aims to promote peace and is recognized by many nations and military groups.