IWPG Global 6, Completion Ceremony of Peace Lecturer Training for Women Leaders

Women leaders from New Zealand, the UK, Malawi, and South Africa come together to pledge to practice peace

International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Global 6 (Director, So Yoeong Park) hosts ‘PLTE (Peace Lecturer Training Education) Graduation Ceremony’ for oversea branch on 25th. This graduation ceremony was attended by 70 people, and was an opportunity for women leaders from New Zealand, the UK, Malawi, and South Africa to come together and pledge to practice peace and share their ideas.

PLTE is IWPG’s core educational program that aims to spread the values ​​of peace and deter war based on women’s motherhood in the midst of war and conflict.

So Yeong Park Global region 6 director said, “The women’s peace education you have studied goes beyond simply imparting knowledge, and it becomes the basis for realizing the value of peace and building the peace the world needs. I hope that you will become the center of peace and the focal point for advancing peace.”

Caron Kgomo(Deputy Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South Africa) conveyed her congratulations by saying “I commend the graduates of the women’s peace education program for their dedication and achievements, which embody hope for a more peaceful future. By sharing what you’ve learned and inspiring others to join, you can help build a global community dedicated to spreading peace. Your efforts will create lasting change and plant the seeds of a brighter tomorrow.”

Lindiwe Matanya, executive director for Women for Fair Development (WOFAD) in Blantyre Malawi, who graduates said “The most important lesson from the women’s peace education of  IWPG is that peace begins with oneself. When inner peace is present, one can manage conflicts wisely and foster harmony within families and communities. However, without inner peace, discord can arise. Ultimately, creating a peaceful world starts with self-reflection and cultivating peace within.”

With the passion of women, peace education has achieved great results, producing 1,200 graduates in 42 countries including Korea. MOUs were signed with the Ministry of Women of Uganda and Cote d’Ivoire to successfully conduct women’s peace education at the national level. In Mexico and other countries, large-scale education was conducted as the number of applicants for peace education increased explosively through online platforms.

Meanwhile, IWPG is a global women’s NGO registered with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communication (DGC). It is headquartered in Korea and has 114 branches and 808 cooperative organizations around the world. With the vision of ‘realizing sustainable world peace,’ it is actively working to expand solidarity needed in the world, spread a culture of peace, provide women’s peace education, and enact laws and systems.

New Heaven New Earth Church Protests Venue Cancellation Following Record-Breaking Graduation Celebration

On November 15, over 25,000 members and supporters of the Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus gathered near the Gyeonggi Provincial Government Office to protest the last-minute cancellation of a major religious event. The peaceful demonstration, which caused partial lane closures, aimed to spotlight what the church describes as “biased administration and religious suppression.”


The rally followed the abrupt cancellation of New Heaven New Earth Church’s “Religious Leaders’ Forum and Graduation Ceremony” at Paju Imjingak Peace Nuri Park on October 29—just one day before the scheduled event. The Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation cited security concerns related to recent North Korean military activity as the reason for the decision, despite previously approving the venue on July 22.
Police deployed six riot squads, with over 400 officers stationed to maintain order, but no clashes were reported. New Heaven New Earth Church has since submitted a formal letter of protest to the Gyeonggi Province, demanding an official apology and compensation for damages caused by the abrupt decision, which disrupted months of preparation and impacted 30,000 international participants.

New Heaven New Earth Church representatives expressed frustration, pointing out that other events in the area proceeded as planned despite similar security concerns. “This is biased administration and an act of religious suppression,” said Lee Ki-won, General Manager of New Heaven New Earth Church Head Quarters in South Korea. “We repeatedly checked with authorities to ensure there were no issues, and yet, the decision came without warning.” Despite these challenges, the church proceeded with its record-breaking graduation ceremony, celebrating 111,628 students who completed New Heaven New Earth Church’s comprehensive Bible education course, including 3,377 pastors.

The main event was initially held on October 30 at the Cheongju branch, with the church coordinating additional gatherings for graduates and special guests across multiple branch churches in South Korea. The ceremony was later streamed globally, including to Southern Africa, enabling participants from 153 countries to join the celebration.

“This last-minute change could have dampened the occasion, but seeing our graduates overcome this challenge with unity and hope speaks volumes,

shared Andre van der Westhuizen, a church representative in Cape Town, South Africa. “This graduation showcases how faith can bridge communities and bring about positive change.”

In Southern Africa alone, 1,125 students from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana,
Mozambique, and Malawi completed the course.
The disruption ahead of this event has reignited international discussion on religious freedom and discrimination in South Korea. New Heaven New Earth Church and the Association for Buddhist National Unification are urging the South Korean government to uphold human rights and prevent future restrictions on religious gatherings.


Chairman and Senior Pastor Man-Hee Lee addressed the graduates, saying, “The Bible says that the tree of life bears 12 fruits every month. You are the embodiment of that tree. Since you have graduated, I hope you will freely give what you have learned to others. This is a fundamental expression of gratitude as believers. Even if you face persecution, let’s do good deeds and never curse or slander others.

Religious Freedom Violation and Intolerance Spark International Controversy

South Korean local government cancels international event with 30,000 participants from 78 countries, causing international damage

On October 29th, an administrative decision by a South Korean government agency sparked international controversy, raising concerns about religious freedom and causing substantial financial loss.

The “Religious Leaders Forum and Graduation Ceremony,” a joint initiative by two prominent religious organizations, was set to take place in Paju, South Korea. The event was expected to draw over 30,000 participants from 57 countries, including 1,000 religious leaders representing Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism.

However, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, a public entity under Gyeonggi Province, abruptly canceled the venue rental without prior notice. This last-minute decision has resulted in significant financial damage to the international event. Organizers of this event stated that the cancellation constitutes an unconstitutional act of discrimination against a specific religion, violating religious freedom, human rights, and due process of law.

The hosting organizations, the Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus, said that they had received official confirmation on October 23rd and 28th that there was no plan of cancellation. They also said that the unilateral cancellation was an unreasonable administrative action targeting a specific religious group. They further emphasize that other events scheduled for the same day were not affected, suggesting that the cancellation was “administrative decision caused by opposition from a specific religious group,” which “violates the principle of separation of church and state guaranteed by the Constitution.”

The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization cited security concerns related to recent North Korean actions and the planned activities of a North Korean defector group as reasons for the cancellation. However, it was pointed out that other events, such as civilian bike rides and foreign tourist visits to the DMZ, were permitted within the same designated area.

The incident has reignited international debate about religious freedom and tolerance in South Korea. The U.S. State Department’s International Religious Freedom Report has previously highlighted concerns such as the prosecution of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and the government’s refusal to approve mosque construction.

The Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus call upon the South Korean government to respect religious freedom, uphold human rights, and rectify this unjust decision. They urge international organizations to monitor this situation and take appropriate action to protect religious freedom.

Revolutionizing Environmental Innovation: The Earthshot Prize’s Impact in South Africa

In 2020, Prince William launched the Earthshot Prize, a prestigious global environmental award aimed at incentivizing innovation and solutions to repair the planet. South Africa, with its rich biodiversity and pressing environmental challenges, has been a key beneficiary of this initiative. This article explores the Earthshot Prize’s impact on South Africa, highlighting local winners, innovative projects, and the potential for sustainable development.

The Earthshot Prize: A Catalyst for Change

The Earthshot Prize is awarded annually to five winners, each receiving £1 million, in five categories:

  1. Protect and Restore Nature
  2. Clean Our Air
  3. Revive Our Oceans
  4. Build a Waste-Free World
  5. Fix Our Climate

This year, the Earthshot Prize Awards took place in Cape Town, South Africa, on November 6, 2024. This was the first time the annual celebration was held in Africa, and it was a momentous occasion . The event was hosted by Billy Porter and Bonang Matheba, featuring incredible performances from Lebo M, the Ndlovu Choir, and more .

The 2024 Earthshot Prize Winners

Five extraordinary innovators were awarded £1 million each to accelerate and scale their game-changing environmental solutions.

The winners were selected from over 500 nominations from 38 different African countries, showcasing innovative solutions to environmental challenges . These visionary innovators are not just solving environmental challenges; they’re lighting the path for a sustainable future for us all.

Impact and Benefits in South Africa

The Earthshot Prize has:

  1. Fostered innovation: Encouraging local entrepreneurs to develop sustainable solutions
  2. Created jobs: Supporting green economy growth and employment
  3. Promoted collaboration: Facilitating partnerships between government, business, and civil society
  4. Raised awareness: Highlighting South Africa’s environmental challenges and opportunities

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite progress, South Africa faces:

  1. Funding constraints: Limiting the scalability of environmental projects
  2. Policy gaps: Hindering the implementation of sustainable solutions
  3. Climate change: Exacerbating environmental degradation and social inequality

The Earthshot Prize has ignited a spark of innovation in South Africa, demonstrating the potential for sustainable development and environmental stewardship. As the country continues to address its pressing environmental challenges, the Earthshot Prize serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring a new generation of South African innovators and leaders.

Shincheonji Church Celebrates Record-Breaking Global Graduation Despite Last-Minute Venue Cancellation

The Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus recently celebrated the graduation of 111,628 students from its comprehensive Bible education course, marking a milestone as the fourth global graduation of this scale.

115th Class in the 110 000 graduation ceremony in Cheongju,
South Korea

Originally, the event was set to take place at Imjingak Pyeonghwanuri Park in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, an expansive venue reserved to accommodate tens of thousands of expected participants, including 1,000 religious leaders from diverse faiths. However, in a sudden and unexpected move, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation canceled the reservation on October 29, just one day before the main ceremony, citing security concerns related to recent North Korean military actions.

Shincheonji representatives condemned the cancellation, calling it “an act of administrative tyranny” and noting that the decision disrupted months of planning and left 30,000 international participants and religious leaders from 78 countries scrambling. Despite having received official confirmation of the event’s approval, Shincheonji Church and the Korean Association for National Unification Buddhism believe that the abrupt decision reflects unconstitutional religious discrimination. Questions were raised when nearby public events were permitted to continue as planned, causing frustration among organisers who felt their gathering was unfairly targeted.

Undeterred, New Heaven New Earth Church mobilised quickly, coordinating with its branch churches to host the graduation across multiple church buildings in South Korea. The main ceremony proceeded in Cheongju, and the event was successfully live-streamed on November 2 to various satellite locations across Southern Africa, enabling graduates, and special guests worldwide to take part in the celebration despite the logistical challenge.

“This last-minute change could have dampened the occasion, but seeing our graduates overcome this challenge with unity and hope speaks volumes,” shared Andre van der Westhuizen, a church representative in Cape Town. “This graduation showcases how faith can bridge communities and bring about positive change.”

The graduation marked a significant milestone in Shincheonji’s mission to provide deep, scriptural education, uniting participants from 153 countries. In Southern Africa alone, 1,125 students from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, and Malawi completed the course.

Government officials graced the event with their presence in the Gqeberha region. Councillor Lenny of Ward 10 (Malabar) shared, “what captured me the most was the discipline of the organization, the youth that are getting empowered, the gospel of Jesus Christ that is going out… it was amazing!”

Mr. Omari Roberts, Church Head of the Gqeberha branch church (3rd from left) and fellow representatives of the church are pictured with Ward Councillors for Motherwell (center) and Malabar (4th from right) and SANBS representative, Mr. Grootboom (4th from left).

Councillor Bulelani Matenjwa of Ward 59 (Motherwell) encouraged that government should become more involved in activities where the youth is concerned at church, particularly pertaining to having a more inclusive funding model. This can include lender availability, resource availability and participation in Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) programs and have government incorporate them into their programs.

New Heaven New Earth Church’s Bible course continues to grow in popularity worldwide, focusing on instilling values of faith, unity, and hope through an intensive Bible study. The graduation celebrations also reinforce the church’s dedication to promoting a genuine love for God, His Word, and the transformative power of faith in building communities.

Pastor Thembisile Matoto of Back to God Crusade Church shared that the journey was certainly exciting. Although he faced challenges due to balancing work while enrolled in the bible study course, he valued the support of the instructors and evangelists and helping him get through the course and be able to share God’s word with his congregation members.

“To the graduates, I would like to say congratulations… So go out there and teach the others, especially those who have no idea about the organization and the church, spread the gospel, spread the word so that the church can grow even stronger,” Somizi Grootboom of SANBS shared enthusiastically.

In his address, the Chairman and senior pastor of New Heaven New Earth Church, Man-Hee Lee encouraged the new graduates to freely share the Word they had received. “To many people we have to proclaim this Word. (It) doesn’t matter whether I’m in Protestantism or Shincheonji, what I know I want to share it with others. That’s the appointed task that we all have. It is an expression of thanks and faith.”

Graduates of the New Heaven New Earth Bible Study Course in Cape Town

The disruption ahead of this event reignited international dialogue around religious freedom and discrimination in South Korea, with New Heaven New Earth Church and the Association for Buddhist National Unification calling upon the South Korean government to uphold human rights and prevent future restrictions on religious gatherings. The church has appealed to international organisations to monitor and advocate for fair treatment, ensuring that all religious groups can exercise their freedom of worship without interference.

Shincheonji Church Decries Venue Cancellation by Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation

The Shincheonji (New Heaven New Earth) Church of Jesus, along with the Korean Association for National Unification Buddhism, had planned a significant Religious Leaders’ Forum and Graduation Ceremony at Imjingak Pyeonghwanuri Park in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. The event was set to draw tens of thousands of participants from around the world. With formal approval in place, the venue had been reserved from October 29 to 31 to accommodate this highly anticipated gathering. However, in an unexpected and last-minute move, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization cancelled the reservation on October 29, just one day before the main ceremony, citing security concerns.

Imjingak Tourist Information Center in Paju, South Korea

“This last-minute cancellation is an act of administrative tyranny,” a Shincheonji representative stated. “The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization did not consult us, nor did they provide any reasonable explanation. This decision not only disrupts an event that has been in preparation for months but also disregards the considerable investment, amounting to over 20 billion KRW, that was made to ensure a safe and successful gathering for our members.”

The Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation justified the abrupt decision by pointing to the designation of danger zones around Paju and the potential disturbance from a North Korean defector organisation’s planned leaflet launch. However, Shincheonji emphasised that both the danger zones and the leaflet activity were known well in advance.

“We were given no objections until the last possible moment,” the representative continued. “Instead of working with us to address any concerns, the authorities chose to notify us of the cancellation just as the event was about to begin.”

According to Shincheonji, the failure to communicate or consider alternative arrangements has forced them to reroute tens of thousands of attendees to alternative venues across Korea and internationally.

“This is more than just an administrative misstep,” the spokesperson stressed. “It’s a violation of our constitutional rights to religious freedom and equal treatment. This type of unconstitutional administrative abuse cannot and should not be ignored.”

Shincheonji representatives believe the cancellation was influenced by orders from higher authorities, claiming, “We suspect that unjust orders came not just from the tourism organisation but from the Gyeonggi Provincial Government itself. This unfair treatment highlights a concerning bias and interference in religious practices.”

In response to the decision, Shincheonji has called for the Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation to retract the cancellation and collaborate on a transparent solution. “We will pursue all necessary legal and administrative actions to hold those responsible accountable,” they affirmed. “We cannot allow such significant infringements on our rights to go unchallenged.”

2023 graduation ceremony hosted in the Daegu stadium with over 106,000 graduates

With the event now set to continue across various local Shincheonji branches, including the upcoming large-scale ceremony in South Africa, Shincheonji remains committed to ensuring the 110,000 graduates worldwide celebrate their milestone.

 “Despite these challenges, we will proceed in unity,” the representative concluded. “The light, spirit and purpose of this ceremony remain unwavering, and we look forward to making it a meaningful occasion.”

Southern Africa Prepares for Landmark Shincheonji Graduation Ceremony Following Chairman’s Visit to Cheongju

The highly anticipated Shincheonji Church of Jesus, New Heaven New Earth (NHNE), graduation ceremony will be hosted across several Southern African cities this November. Cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Gqeberha, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Rustenburg, Windhoek, Harare, Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu, and Gaborone will see civil society leaders, religious leaders, and media practitioners gathering for this momentous event, marking a new chapter of unity under the Word.

The announcement comes on the heels of a historic visit by the Chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus to the Cheongju branch in South Korea on September 8, 2024. The Chairman’s visit drew a massive crowd of 80,000 people, including congregants from across the country and 100 pastors from various local churches. In a show of support, the attendees formed a 4 km-long human barrier to welcome him.

Shincheonji Church of Jesus members gathered at the Shincheonji Matthias Church in Cheongju, which was visited by Chairman Lee Man-hee.

The excitement surrounding the Chairman’s visit stems from his ability to clearly explain the entire Bible, offering believers a deeper understanding of their faith.

“We should be truly thankful that God has revealed to us the words of Revelation, which no one knew for 6,000 years. This Word is life. We must have faith that is 100% aligned with this Word, and this is what it means to be one with God,” the Chairman stated during his address.

He further emphasised the responsibility to share the Word, saying, “We can present the reality of the prophecies in the Book of Revelation. However, we were once in the same position as those who did not know. Therefore, we must humble ourselves and explain the truth to help others understand.”

Since its founding, NHNE has been devoted to spreading a Bible-centered faith. This year, the Chairman has visited more than 40 churches both in South Korea and internationally, sharing teachings rooted in the six principles of journalism—who, what, when, where, why, and how. A 2023 Pastoral Data Research Institute survey found that 65% of Protestant churchgoers in South Korea felt a “spiritual thirst.” Additionally, 55% expressed a desire for a “systematic Bible education” from their pastors, reflecting a widespread need for more structured and in-depth religious instruction.

General Chairman Lee Man-hee addressing reporters who came to cover the Shincheonji Matthias Church in Cheongju

NHNE, however, is reversing the trend of young adults in their 20s and 30s leaving religion. With more than 100,000 members completing NHNE’s 8-month Bible course annually, the church’s growth is driven by its Bible-centered teachings and the excellence of the revealed Word.

A church representative remarked, “The prophecies in the Book of Revelation, which many believed were just stories, have been fulfilled and have physical realities. This truth is at the core of NHNE’s teachings, supported by a systematic curriculum that resonates with people of all ages.”

As Southern Africa prepares for the upcoming graduation ceremony in November, the event is set to unite leaders and believers across the region, continuing the global mission of NHNE to spread the Word and bring clarity to the lives of believers.

The 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace Held in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa – 18 May 2024 – an international peace NGO, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), held the 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace under the theme of “30 Years of Democracy: Promoting Youth Participation in Elections and Envisioning the Next Three Decades of Freedom”.

As conflicts erupt worldwide that threaten global security and coexistence bringing about the need for peace among citizens, the purpose of this event was to promote youth participation in elections, address critical developmental challenges such as unemployment, gender-based violence, inequality, and social justice through the culture of peace.

This year’s event was held in Cape Town, attended by over 200 participants including the Western Cape Premier candidates Mr. Khalid Sayed Mohammed of the ANC party, Mr. Axolile Notywala of the Rise Mzansi Party and citizen demonstrators.

Mr Khalid Sayed shared how although the struggles faced in various countries and in Palestine may seem far, they are relevant to local South Africans who still have not had freedom afforded by peace due to previously mismanaged resources.

Mr. Axolile Notywala encouraged the youth to participate and commended the dialogue as a platform where one can be more informed as a voter. He raised the concern of the single mother demographic in South Africa, who many a time are unable to attend such events.

In an interview with Mr Andrew Bateman,a member of the Democratic Alliance, he shared “in regards to our own nation, we are aware of the high levels of crime, gender based violence and it is simply unacceptable what South Africans are facing everyday in our communities”.

This annual event commemorates the 2013 proclamation of the Declaration of World Peace at the Peace Gate in Seoul Olympic Park with 30,000 global youth advocating peace. This declaration outlines the roles of individuals from all walks of life in achieving peace and urges a united global effort.

At the 10th annual commemoration last year HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee said, “Since we pledged to work together for world peace 10 years ago, we have been calling for peace all over the world. We have advocated that peace should be taught at home and at school, and that everyone should become messengers of peace.”  He also emphasized, “Everyone should be one under the title of peace and work together to create a good world and make it a legacy for future generations. This is what we need to do in this era in which we live.”

Membership registration, information about peace projects, and reading the full text of and supporting the DPCW are available on HWPL’s official website at www.hwpl.kr.

HWPL Calls for Peace Amid Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Iran

In response to the intensifying tension between Israel and Iran, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), a United Nations-affiliated organisation focused on promoting peace through civilian-led initiatives, has issued a compelling statement.

Expressing profound concerns over the recent surge in violence, HWPL emphasised the detrimental impact of the conflict on innocent civilians. The organisation stressed the tragic reality of war: claiming countless lives and leaving behind a trail of devastation that reverberates across generations.

“It is a clear indication that the greatest victims of war are innocent civilians. How could those lost lives ever be brought back? What could compensate for the outcry of children and the anguish of the youth in devastated dwellings?” the statement said.

Highlighting the urgent need for decisive action, HWPL called upon the international community to prioritise efforts towards establishing comprehensive international laws aimed at safeguarding peace for future generations.

Reports indicate that on April 13th, Iran and its militant allies launched a large-scale attack on Israel, deploying hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones. The unprecedented nature of Tehran’s direct assault on Israel has raised alarm bells within the global community. Experts attribute Iran’s actions to a retaliatory response following an airstrike on the Iranian embassy in Syria on April 1st, which resulted in the loss of several military personnel, including senior commanders.

In a notable display of solidarity, Permanent Representatives to the United Nations from 48 nations, including key stakeholders such as the United States, Australia, and Japan, jointly condemned Iran’s aggression against Israel on April 18th.

Amidst the escalating tensions, HWPL remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering dialogue and reconciliation. An official from the organisation reiterated HWPL’s unwavering dedication to offering hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Iran.

As the world watches with apprehension, HWPL’s call for peace serves as a beacon of hope, urging all parties involved to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy in pursuit of lasting peace and stability in the region.

“HWPL remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering dialogue and reconciliation, offering hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Iran,” an HWPL official said.

HWPL’s 8th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) Held on March 14th

Amidst Ongoing Global Conflicts, International Experts Gather to Discuss Institutionalizing Peace

Participants of the 8th Annual Commemoration of the DPCW

In 2023 alone, conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas war, and numerous international disputes tragically claimed the lives of over 33,000 civilians and displaced millions. Recognizing this dire reality, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international peace NGO, held its 8th annual commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) on March 14th at its peace training institute in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. The event’s theme resonated deeply: “Building the Minds of Peace: Promoting Institutional Peace via Intercultural Dialogue and Understanding.”

Since the DPCW’s proclamation on March 14, 2016, HWPL has consistently held annual commemorative ceremonies to advocate for the institutionalization of peace. This year, the event gathered about 12,500 distinguished experts from diverse fields – political, legal, religious, educational, media, and representatives from women and youth sectors – both online and in person. Among participants, about 10,000 HWPL members moved in an orderly manner under the guidance of staff and filled the commemorative ceremony venue.

Chairman Man-Hee Lee of HWPL, speaking at the 8th Annual Commemoration.

Drafted in collaboration with international legal specialists from 15 countries, the DPCW comprises 10 articles and 38 clauses. It outlines the principles and tools necessary to prevent and resolve conflicts, cultivate a peaceful global society, and defines clear roles for individuals, communities, and nations in achieving lasting peace.

In his congratulatory speech, H.E. Vidura Wickramanayaka, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka, said, “The commitment and dedication shown in the pursuit of peace projects have not only been commendable but have also laid the foundation for a more harmonious world. The tireless efforts of individuals and organizations working towards the common goal of ending war and fostering understanding among nations are truly inspiring.”

Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka

As President of the Daegak Buddhism Jogye Order in South Korea, Ven. Beopsan who has been participating in interreligious dialogue for nine years, emphasized the importance of religious leaders’ participation in peacebuilding efforts including comparative study of scriptures. He said, “Intercultural dialogue and understanding can be found at HWPL’s World Alliance of Religions’ Peace Office. The root of religion is one and its meaning is a truly noble value.”

Having pointed out that conflicts caused by religion have threatened global peace, Chairman Man-hee Lee of HWPL said, “Different religions should come together, learn each other’s values and become one by comparative study on scriptures. Religious communities should practice faith based on scriptures, so they can live with humanity on this earth. We must create a world where people communicate, cooperate, and help each other regardless of religion,”

President of the Daegak Buddhism, Jogye Order giving a speech.

Lastly, the ceremony concluded with a variety of performances depicting the journey of peace. During the performance, there was a session where the contents of Article 10, 38 clauses of the DPCW were explained through performance, and expressed an image of a paradise filled with flowers where peace was achieved.

Recently, various activities are being carried out around the world to institutionalize peace. In East Timor, a training course for journalists is planned to be held in 2024 to raise public awareness of peace. Mr. Otélio Ote, President of the Timor-Leste Press Council, said, “I am proud to announce our collaboration with HWPL through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement peace journalism education. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to promoting freedom of expression, press freedom, and the independence of media institutions. As we look ahead to 2024, the Timor-Leste Press Council is committed to supporting HWPL’s endeavors for the sustainable development of institutional peace based on intercultural dialogue and understanding.”