International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) held the 2024 International Women’s Peace Conference (IWPC) as part of the 10th Anniversary of the Sep 18 World Peace Summit hosted by its peace cooperative organization, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). Women all around the world seeking peace gathered to stress the importance of taking action and committed to working with IWPG. The Wildflower Peace Project for embracing multiculturalism is actively taking place in South Korea. IWPG also signed MOU/MOAs, urged for the legislation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), provided Peace Lecturer Training Education (PLTE), spread a culture of peace, and cooperated with civil society networks.
|
|
|
IWPG successfully hosts the 2024 International Women’s Peace Conference. Women becoming one for peace
- held under the theme “Female Leaders Acting Upon Peace” in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do province
- Female leaders gathering to share peace activity cases and action plans
- IWPG Chairwoman Hyun Sook Yoon emphasizes the each individual’s ‘implementation’ of peace
|
|
|
Women aspiring for world peace amidst continuous wars and conflict came together to share their experiences of peace activities and renew their determination and commitment toward world peace.
IWPG held the 2024 International Women’s Peace Conference at Kensington Resort in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do province on September 19.
This conference was held under the theme “Female Leaders Acting Upon Peace,” a place for women to share the most latest examples of peace activities in their communities to ultimately bring an end to war. IWPG introduced its peace achievements, much more fruitful compared to last year, and encouraged the participation of everyone.
In her opening remarks, IWPG Chairwoman Hyun Sook Yoon said, “‘Implementation’ is crucial for peace to be realized into practical institutions and culture. If people from all sectors of society fulfill their role, peace can be achieved. Please always think, ‘What can I do at this moment for peace?’” |
|
|
The conference was divided into two parts: “Why should women engage in peace activities?” and “Practicing Peace: Women becoming the leaders of peace.”
In her opening remarks, IWPG Chairwoman Hyun Sook Yoon said, “‘Implementation’ is crucial for peace to be realized into practical institutions and culture. If people from all sectors of society fulfill their role, peace can be achieved. Please always think, ‘What can I do at this moment for peace?’”
She also explained that empowering women through education is essential for building sustainable peace. She said, “Women's empowerment not only benefits women individually but also has positive ripple effects on families, communities, and societies, driving a movement towards a more peaceful world.” |
|
|
The importance of Women’s Peace Education was also highlighted under the context of embracing various cultures. Professor Jeong Jee-youn, head of Korea Research Institute of Immigration and Multicultural Policy, said, “The transformation into a multicultural society is inevitable, but there is not lot of attention brought to this topic. Now, it is time for us to break away from the current approach and adopt a continuous multicultural education to build a lasting, peaceful society.”
She added, “The challenges arising from globalization cannot be resolved solely by our own singular approach. In this regard, I hope IWPG’s Women’s Peace Education, which addresses tolerance(inclusivity) and respect as essential virtues of peaceful citizens, becomes a cornerstone for social integration and peace in a multicultural era.”
The story of female leaders who participated in IWPG’s peace campaigns was also introduced. Ms. Maria Theresa Royo-Timbol, Municipal Mayor of Kapalong, Davao Del Norte from the Philippines, gave a speech on “The Roadmap of Women for the Cessation of War” based on her experience establishing the 3rd IWPG Peace Monument in the Philippines last month.
She explained that she built the monument hoping that it would manifest as a concrete peace monument for the current and future generation. She said, “It will definitely have a ripple effect on women and young people as well. I encourage women to participate in any IWPG peace initiatives so that women will appreciate more the importance of their involvement in peace activities.” |
|
|
Ms. Sanem Arikan, Director General of Services of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Copyright Office, spoke of her various endeavors to accomplish world peace. As an advocate of various social issues, including empowerment of women and children, prevention of violence, and eradication of drugs, she has received IWPG’s Peace Education and tried to spread peace culture and raise awareness in collaboration with media, politics, and academia.
Ms. Sanem Arikan said, “I believe that the press, social media, political leaders, artists, and community leaders play a crucial role in spreading a culture of peace. And, I believe a sustainable peace process can only be achieved through the power of women. We must stand up for women and children that are sacrificed at war even at this moment.”
Hon. Dr. Joyelle Trizia Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, said, “When we include more women as leaders and decisionmakers, we allow for an all-encompassing approach.” She proposed enhancing women’s participation in decision-making, advancing gender equality and empowering women, encouraging peacekeeping activities in the individual and professional level, and supporting vulnerable groups. |
|
|
“The participation of women in peacebuilding is essential”… Women from all sectors gathered for peace
- Biafra·India·Korea·Myanmar·Colombia
- Listening to the stories of women for peace |
|
|
Apart from the main conference program, participants spoke at the open mic session to call for the contribution and participation of women for peace. The open mic session is a platform for women from various backgrounds to freely express themselves.
“Women are powerful agents of change. Women, the bedrock of any society, have shown exemplary skills in building understanding, patience, and nurturing. These qualities have made women the perfect entities to build peace worldwide.”
Dr. Ngozi Orabueze, Chief of Staff of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile, emphasized “the vital role of women in peace-building” at the open mic session.
She said, “I represent over 70 million Biafrans. As a woman from Biafra, my role in this mission is to create awareness in the world on how peaceful co-existence, respect for individual basic rights, equity, justice, and understanding can make the world a better place.”
She described that the pain of war in Biafra was caused because “peace has been lacking” and emphasized, “We must choose dialogue over confrontation, compassion over cruelty. To our brothers and sisters in the Nigerian union, we extend an olive branch. Let us work together towards a future where every ethnic group can thrive, free from fear and oppression.”
Ms. Agatha Sushila Anthony Dias, the founder of Amcha Ghar, an Indian organization that supports vulnerable children, said, “Women are often the most affected by war, bearing the heaviest burdens. Historically, women have been submissive, but now, empowered by education, they have the strength and knowledge to protect their children and shape a more peaceful future.”
HWPL’s peace activities for more than 7 years, she said, “I've witnessed the incredible work done by the core team and members worldwide and firmly believe that the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) will soon be universally accepted and implemented.”
Ms. Jang Jung-hee, Chairwoman of the Board of Bang Jeong-gwan Research Institute, said, “The reason women must participate in peace work is that they have the potential to drive peace activities in our communities that embrace children, families, and neighbors. Practicing peace starts from the childhood. Reading peace books, practicing peace, and thinking peace are some peace activities that we must develop with our children.” |
|
|
Hon. Maria Martha Lacouture, Secretary of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Valledupar City Hall, said, “Women were always at the center of social change. We must set an example and support projects for dialogue and the peaceful resolution of conflict, supporting initiatives on environmental protection and sustainable peace. In 2025, Valledupar will be evidence of a shared society of peace.
Ms. Thandar Aung, the founder of Myanmar Professional Institute, said, “When we invest in peace, we nurture the next generation of leaders and change-makers. I see it as my responsibility to be a voice of reason and empathy in every space I occupy—whether in my professional work, my community, or as a mentor to the younger generation.”
One IWPG official who planned the open mic session said, “The theme of the conference, ‘Female Leaders Acting Upon Peace’ is not only referring to leadership from women in a certain social position. Regardless of position or title, anyone can practice peace and spread a positive impact to the people around them.”
In addition, Ms. Rania Alam was presented with the Plaque of Appreciation, and Ms. Sanem Arikan and Thandar Aung were appointed as IWPG Publicity Ambassadors. The participants also wrote their “Peace Promise,” planning their own peace activities. The results of these promises will be shared at next year’s International Women’s Peace Conference. IWPG will continue to actively engage in peace activities in various sectors so that its peace initiatives can become the peace education textbook. |
|
|
MOU/A Signing for Peace Projects
- Women Around the World Uniting Under Peace |
|
|
- Myanmar Women Parliamentarians Network, Cameroon Association for the Promotion of Gender and Disability Issues
|
|
|
On Sep 9, Global Region 4 signed an MOU with Myanmar Women Parliamentarians Network and an MOA with Association for the Promotion of Gender and Disability Issues (APGDI) of Cameroon. The ceremony was conducted online with 18 staff members.
Aye Mya Mya Myo, spokesperson of Myanmar Women Parliamentarians Network, said, “It is an honor to be able to work with IWPG. We need to raise awareness on women and children and are trying to look for ways to organize activities. Our efforts and commitment will lead to more achievements, and I am sure we will continue to develop a stronger partnership and friendship. I will try my best to make sure this MOU is carried out successfully.” She is also planning PLTE training for her organization members.
Umenjoh Vania Andoumbeni, founder and chairperson of APGDI, said, “It is often said in Africa that ‘one hand cannot tie a bundle.’ It is in this light that APGDI and IWPG have decided to collaborate to promote global peace. Advocating for peace and social justice has been my desire, and this is what motivated the creation of APGDI. This is because peace begins at individual levels, and if marginalization and discrimination are eliminated in our communities, peace will automatically emerge.”
|
|
|
- Pragnya Bodhini High School, India
|
|
|
On Sep 4, Global Region 5 (Regional Director Su Jin Park) signed an MOU with Pragnya Bodhini High School in India at Worknco in Guro-gu, Seoul. This partnership was based on a shared understanding on the value of peace education and mutual commitment to spread it all around the world. The two organizations plan to conduct in regular peace activities every year and share each other’s peace visions and education methods.
Seema Chhotu Shaikh, principal of Pragnya Bodhini High School, said, “This partnership with IWPG will be the beginning of the spread the value of peace education to many more schools. I hope more educational institutions cooperate with IWPG for peace. It is important for children to learn peace from a young age, and consistently engaging in independent peace activities through the vision shared by IWPG will contribute to the spread of the global peace network. |
|
|
On Sep 18, Global Region 10 signed an MOU with Ankaralılar Derneği Başkan Yardımcıs (AHid) (president Hilmi Yaman) from Türkiye at Kensington Resort in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do province. AHiD is a residential association and volunteer group of Ankara, Türkiye . It has 17 Branches and 120,000 members, hosting various events for the residents, children, women, and people with disabilities in Ankara, such as traditional puppet shows, Karagöz, and children festivals, with support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye. Sanem Arikan, the vice chairperson of AHiD promised to engage in various peace activities and promote mutual cooperation between IWPG and AHiD through this MOU. |
|
|
- Civil Society Network, Cambodia
|
|
|
On Sep 17, Global Region 12 (Regional Director Lee Soojeong) signed an MOA with Civil Society Network from Cambodia at Kensington Resort in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do province. This treaty laid the foundation for strengthening the partnership between the two organizations and promoting peace. The two organizations are planning to engage in various peace projects together and contribute to peace realization with Cambodia Branch. Tompen Virak Vitou, president of Cambodia Civil Society Network, said, “I will work for sustainable peace activities with the Cambodia Branch Manager.” |
|
|
- Ballerina Management Institute Trust, India
|
|
|
On Sep 19, Global Region 3 (Regional Director Eun Ju Heo) signed an peace MOA with Ballerina Management Institute Trust (BMIT) at Kensington Resort in Gapyeong, Korea. Ratna Joshi, the president of BMIT, agreed to share information with IWPG and strengthen the peace network to spread peace activities all around the world. |
|
|
- Femme Solidarity, Australia; Adept Women Association, Saudi Arabia; Valledupar city, Colombia
|
|
|
On Sep 17~18, Global Region 2 (Regional Director Seo-yeon Lee) signed MOUs for peace initiatives each with Femme Solidarity (Director Sarah Chong), Adept Women Association (Chairwoman Sherazi Numera Mohsin), and Valledupar city (Secretary of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism Hon. Maria Martha Lacouture).
They promised to participate in IWPG’s peace initiatives, such as peace projects, PLTE, DPCW promotion through the press and social network, and establishment of Peace Committees. They discussed detailed plans and agreed to cooperate for peace.
Director Sarah Chong said, “We need collective effort to introduce new initiatives on world peace through PLTE and establish sustainable peace. I wish to participate in next year’s conference with practical results of my peace activities. I will introduce IWPG to female leaders who can promote PLTE and spread the value of peace to Australian women in the community.”
Chairwoman Sherazi Numera Mohsin said, “IWPG is the source of prosperity, stability, resilience, and growth. IWPG will become more active if a branch is established in Saudi Arabia.”
Secretary Maria Martha Lacouture said, “I am honored to participate in such a large international event called the 2024 International Women’s Peace Conference, and I am grateful to IWPG for giving me this opportunity. I will officially invite IWPG to the peace event and establishment of the IWPG Peace Monument in Valledupar.”
Regional Director Seo-yeon Lee said, “There are a lot of peace activists and peace organizations worldwide, but still peace has not fully come. Let’s continue to work with IWPG to spread the value of peace education and motivate women to lead the way to peace.” |
|
|
Peace Lecturer Training Education (PLTE)
- Peace Realized through Female Peace |
|
|
On every Saturday in September, Global Region 4 conducted PLTE online in Myanmar for 50 trainees.
Peace Lecturer Shwe Sin Aung, technical staff officer of the Ministry of Cooperative and Rural Development, said, “Lecturing PLTE gives me inspiration and strength. This lecture trains and motivates individuals, especially women, become advocates of peace, giving them an opportunity to contribute to world peace. The trainees can advance peace. If they understand that the knowledge that they have acquired through this education can have a positive impact on their community and put in a lot of effort, they will be able to achieve much. PLTE facilitates the network between the trainees and world peace supporters.”
The trainees also had positive reactions to PLTE.
Nu Nu Kyin said, “I am happy to be given the opportunity to take this peace education. I learned a lot of peace and felt peace. I will share this to the people around me.”
Kay Thwe Moe said, “In the third lesson, I learned how much influence culture has on people and how harmful games and social media are to people. IWPG conducts peace activities and encourages women’s participation during the lecture based on three goals. I could sense the clear objective of the lesson: using the knowledge gained through the education to realizing peace. The lectures were clear and easy to follow. I want to thank the lecturers who have taught me throughout the course.”
Ning San Niang said, “Today I realized that greed and selfishness are the main causes of war. Humans cause war, so it is our responsibility to become ambassadors to establish and spread peace all around the world.”
Myint Myint Thwin said “Lesson 6 directly reflects the current political situation of Myanmar. Learning about peace is a valuable cause.” |
|
|
- Democratic Republic of Congo
|
|
|
On Sep 10, Global Region 10 opened PLTE Class 24-3 online to 22 people gathered in-person. One trainee, Yena Endeza, said, “Women are very often forgotten in the process of establishing peace. This will become a good opportunity for women to uphold their own rights and raise awareness of the role and value of women in protecting nations, communities, religious communities, and public and private institutions requiring peace.” |
|
|
On Sep 10, Global Region 10 held the orientation of Kazakhstan PLTE class 24-4 online. Trainee Azhikhanova Gulzhan said, “I can understand my life more deeply through the lecture. I learned a new way to find peace in my life because I wanted to reflect on my emotions and goals. This course will be very rewarding and inspiring.” Shaimardanova Nazigul said, “I am happy to take PLTE. What bigger dream do we have than to influence one single thing, peace? I’m sure that this education will bring warmth to all the listeners. More than anything, I hope that we become a country that seeks peace and tranquility.” |
|
|
- Ethiopia, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Colombia
|
|
|
In September, Global Region 2 conducted PLTE online in 5 countries: Ethiopia, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, and Colombia.
There were many female students, including Soliyana Abdi, Liya Girma, and Jerusalem Alemayhu from Ethiopia; Dilber Ahmad from Syria; Huda Rifed Ahmed from Iraq; Deema Juneidi from Palestine; and Nelly Corzo Martinez from Colombia.
Jerusalem Alemayhu from Ethiopia said, “I learned that the cause of war is human greed, and the video on the Syrian civil war was very heartbreaking. We should take PLTE to bring world peace as soon as possible.”
Deema Jeneidi said, “Peace Education is really needed because Palestine is suffering from the scars and brutalities of war, and I want to make women and youth take this education. I will introduce IWPG to other organizations so they can be educated on peace.” |
|
|
On Sep 28, Manila Branch, Philippines, (Branch Manager April Otadoy) held the PLTE Completion Ceremony at Hinugyaw Inn. This class was focused on conflict resolution, community engagement, and harmony. All 67 trainees became qualified under the community vision of “sustainable community development.”
Vice mayor Mary Grace Arceo, who participated in the ceremony, said, “Peace Education is the foundation for building a resilient society. Through PLTE, we can develop individuals to become peace messengers, investing in the future of Hinigaran.
Manila Branch signed an MOA with the vice mayor of Hinigaran city and the Hinigaran Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, strengthening future partnership. |
|
|
- Filming PLTE lectures in Khmer
|
|
|
On Sep 20, Global Region 12 filmed PLTE lectures into Khmer at the Jeonju Branch office with Teng Rithy, professor of Panhacheat University, and Pov Pheaknita, member of Management team of UFYC, as peace lecturers. These lecture videos will be used to promote and recruit PLTE trainees in Cambodia. The two lecturers understood the value of providing PLTE in their own native language and constructed the lecturers to be easily understandable to a Khmer-speaking audience. |
|
|
Spreading a culture of peace |
|
|
On Sep 26, Andong Branch (Branch Manager Cha Young Hwang) held the “Wildflower Culture Festival – Wildflower Concert.”
This event was part of IWPG multicultural awareness project, “Wildflower Story.” Wildflower Story is a project to embrace diversity among different cultures within Korea and find ways to resolve conflicts and become one under peace.”
Drawings, messages, and calligraphy representing “one-ness” were presented with pictures of multicultural families and them gifted to the families. There were also many musical performances on the theme of harmony. Andong City Council chairperson Gyeong-do Kim and member Jae-gap Lee participated in the event and said, “I am grateful that there is such an organization is working for the community. I hope we can continue such meaningful work with other women’s organizations as well.” |
|
|
On Sep 3, Incheon Branch (Branch Manager Mi-sook Lim) held the peace message campaign for multicultural awareness near Baegun station. People left messages representing their resolve to embrace multicultural families as part of our society and respect them. |
|
|
On Sep 14, Paju Branch visited a family from Laos living in Bongilcheon, Paju, as part of a family photoshoot event, “Family for a Day.” 10 people, including Peace Committee representative Ham Seung Hyeon, a family from Laos, and a family from the Philippines, participated.
“Family for a Day” is an activity where a Korean family and a multicultural family spend a day together and make each other’s traditional food. It is an experience for different people from different cultures to support each other in this society.
khamsi from Laos said, “I made songpyeon (traditional Korean rice cakes) for the first time, and it was fun and the rice cakes were delicious. I was also grateful that everyone also enjoyed my traditional Loas dish, morning glory.” |
|
|
- Jeongup and Jeonju, Korea
|
|
|
On Sep 12, Jeongup Branch (Branch Manager Kim Miae) held the peace project for multicultural awareness, called “Wildflower Story.” To celebrate the Chuseok (traditional Korean thanksgiving holiday), Jeongup Branch gathered 20 people as part of the “Family for a Day” campaign to make songpyeon together and build friendships, encouraging each other.
After that, on the 28th, Jeonju Branch (Branch Manager Lee Soojeong) held the same event at Jeonju ecocity beatrice gallery. 50 people, including those from Korea and 7 multicultural families, joined the “Family for a Day” event and activities such as family photo shooting. The event particularly focused on and words of warm encouragement toward multicultural families to build a social consensus. |
|
|
- Final Judging of the 6th International Loving-Peace Art Competition
|
|
|
After the preliminaries of the 6th International Loving-Peace Art Competition took place in major cities all over the world for 2 months since May, the final judging took place on Sep 19 in Kensington Resort in Gapyeong, Korea.
Shona Hammond Boys, president of New Zealand Children’s Art House Foundation, was the head judge, with Kani Alavi, head of East Side Gallery of Germany, and Soon Nam Park, chairwoman of Korea-Japan Art Exchange Association, as judges. They focused on selecting the best pieces out of the preliminary round winners from all around the world.
Kani Alavi said, “The 6th International Loving-Peace Art Competition is an event for talented young people to think about and draw about peace and love for humanity. I will look for participants that have expressed peace in a creative manner to bring a transformative impact all around the world. I express my gratitude to all officials and staff trying to discover young talents and award them for their work.”
The International Loving-Peace Art Competition is an annual event that is growing exponentially every year This year, 112 pieces passed the preliminaries of 4 divisions and advanced to the finals.
The pieces were graded out of a total of 100 points, divided into topic suitability (40 pts), artistic quality (30 pts), and creativity (30 pts). The highest ranker would be given the Grand Award. For the gold medal and silver medal, 1 piece from each division, 4 pieces in total, are each selected. 12 pieces, 3 from each division, are selected for the bronze medal. The Award of Recognition is given to 5 pieces per division, 20 in total. Then, several people are given the Participation Award.
The ILPAC Project Manager of the IWPG HQ Dept of External Affairs, So Won Kang, said, “In this year’s finals, each judge scored each piece individually can gathered to deliberate and tried to make sure the results were fair. The passion and peace messages of the participants moved the hearts of the judges. I hope the award-winning pieces can advance the work of peace in each community.” |
|
|
Networking and Cooperation |
|
|
- Global Region 6 appoints Peace Committee Representatives in New Zealand and the United Kingdom
|
|
|
On Sep 20, Global Region 6 appointed Peace Committee Representatives in New Zealand and the United Kingdom at the IWPG Chuncheon Branch office. Shona Hammond Boys, founder of New Zealand Children’s Art House Foundation, and Georgia Mae White, children and young person lead of NOVA New Opportunities, were appointed as the Peace Committee Representative of New Zealand and the United Kingdom respectively.
Newly appointed Peace Committee Representative Shona Hammond Boys said, “I believe that the rights and creativity of children are vital elements in making peace. I will continue to work with IWPG to continue with peace work through art.”
Georgia Mae White said, “I am planning more projects jointly with IWPG, such as making a IWPG Peace Garden in London.”
Sun Jeong Seo, Peace Committee Representative of Chungju Branch, said, “Let’s all try our best to build a world of peace and without war by uniting people from different generations” |
|
|
- Yangon Branch of Myanmar holds the Sep International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting
|
|
|
On Sep 28, Yangon Branch of Myanmar (Branch Manager Crystal Po Gyaw) held the September International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting at Myanmar Tech Park meeting room. There were a total of 18 participants, who presented their thoughts on the World Peace Summit, shared IWPG activities, reported their Q4 peace activity plans, and introduced new members.
Thandar Aung, founder of Myanmar Professional Institute, who also participated in the 10th Anniversary of the World Peace Summit, was appointed as the PR Director of Yangon Branch.
She said, “It was a good opportunity to meet and share experiences with people holding similar thoughts. I believe that young and active women can bring new perspectives and ideas to expand influence if they become one with IWPG. I also learned that Yangon Branch currently has many financial difficulties, so fundraising would be helpful in supporting the Branches goal’s and initiatives.”
Darli Myint said, “I was happy to see 8 new members in our meetings. The existing members shared their peace activities with IWPG and their impressions of the World Peace Summit. It was a happy and warm atmosphere. I want to engage in more events going forward.”
Yin Yin New said, “I am satisfied that everyone actively participated in the meeting at such a difficult time. Yangon Branch is very proud of our new PR Director Thandar Aung. We should continue to gather the younger generation as one.” |
|
|
- Global Region 5 holds meeting on Women’s Peace Education
|
|
|
On Sep 17, Global Region 5 held a meeting on Women’s Peace Education. Agatha Sushila Dias, founder of Amcha Ghar, Larzy Varghees, principal of St. Matthew’s High School & Junior College, and 6 other officials joined the meeting.
Larzy Varghees and Agatha Sushila Dias said, “Women’s Peace Education will be a good opportunity to plant the seed of peace in Indian women.” In particular, Agatha Sushila Dias expressed her will to take the course, saying “I will start to learn and practice peace to spread it to others.” |
|
|
- International Women’s Peace Conference held in Antananarivo, Madagascar, with HWPL
|
|
|
On Sep 21, IWPG held the International Women’s Peace Conference at Antananarivo, Madagascar, with its cooperative organization, HWPL.
Mrs. Via from Federation of Promotion of Women and Children spoke about her history working with IWPG the value of women and men equally contributing. There was also time for the participants to discuss things we can actually do to improve the situation in Madagascar and establish peace. Women empowerment, civic education, and positive masculinity were three of the main suggestions. It was a meaningful opportunity to discuss ways to go forward. |
|
|
- Global Region 7 holds Women’s Peace Conference in Czech
|
|
|
The Czech Women’s Peace Conference was held on Sep 21 in Prague under the theme “Building a Global Peace Community through Regional Cooperation.” Elena Tulupova from Amiga, a non-profit organization of women from Ukraine and Russia, participated and gave a speech on “The Influence of Women in Social Peacebuilding and Maintenance.”
She said, “What we are doing right now is contributing to a bigger common cause, a world of more peace, understanding, and solidarity. I hope our help goes to the people to need it most.”
Ms. Daniela Řeřichová, chair of the Mene Tekel Festival, said, “This summit was a good opportunity to meet people passionate to bring development to civil society. Participation in this summit itself is an unforgettable experience to meet good people that bring hope of a world without war.”
On this day, there was also an exhibition called “Birds of Peace” by the students of Kheson Art School. The birds of peace made by Ukraine children reminded people of peace, freedom, and nostalgia. |
|
|
- Global Region 8 meets with Chief of Staff of Biafra Republic Government in Exile
|
|
|
On Sep 18, Global Region 8 met with Ngozi Orabueze, who visited Korea. She is the Chief of Staff of the Biafra Government in Exile, and this is her second visit to Korea. During the meeting, the two parties discussed the situation of Biafra and IWPG initiatives. Biafra is currently in war. Ngozi Orabueze desires for peace more than anyone else and also spoke at the open mic session of the 2024 International Women’s Peace Conference to share her thoughts. |
|
|
- Global Region 8 holds event to commemorate 10th anniversary of World Peace Summit in Zambia and Netherlands
|
|
|
Global Region 8 co-hosted an event to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the World Peace Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, with HWPL. On the event in Zambia held on Sep 27, the PLTE graduates were given their lecturer certificate. The participants congratulated the graduates for their hard work and shared their thoughts on the value of peace.
On Sep 28, at the local event in Rotterdam, Netherlands, IWPG Rotterdam Branch presented their achievements of the past year. The participants discussed IWPG activities and their positive impact, along with future plans.
These two local events were a good opportunity to promote peace and harmony in the community and reaffirm everyone’s commitment toward peace. |
|
|
- Global Region 2 holds networking meeting for figures from Korea and overseas
|
|
|
On Sep 19, Global Region 2 gathered 40 female figures from Korea, Libya, Colombia, Australia, and Saudi Arabia to a café in Gapyeong, Korea, to hold the Global Region 2 Global Meeting.
The participants included Hon. Rabeeah A S Abouras, member of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Libya; Hon. Aisha E E Shalabi, member of Parliament, National Assembly of Libya; Hon. Maria Martha Lacouture, Secretary of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism of Valledupar; Sherazi Numera Mohsin, chairwoman of Adept Women Association; Sarah Chong, director of Femme Solidarity; Yang Hye-ryeong, chairperson of the Dong-gu Council of the National Unification Advisory Council; Jung Soon-young, former Member of the Buk-gu Council of Gwangju Metropolitan City; Kim Kyung-hee, director of Jeonnam Brain & Psychology Education Center, PhD in Psychology; Jang Ok-ran, peace Instructor Committee Member of the Suncheon City Council of Democratic Unification.
Hon. Rabeeah Abouras said, “I’ve been to many events in various countries, but I’ve never seen a greater event than this one. I’m so happy because I felt peace. I want to work with IWPG to work continuously for peace in Libya.”
Chairwoman of Sherazi Numera Mohsin from Saudi Arabia said, “I believe IWPG is the source of international prosperity, stability, resilience, and growth. I will work for advocacy for the legislation of the DPCW, establishment of IWPG Peace Committees, and PLTE.”
This meeting was an opportunity for people from Korea and overseas to network with each other. They promised continuous peace cooperation, and the Global Region 2 Peace Messenger Appointment Ceremony took place as well. |
|
|
- Washington D.C. Branch Co-Hosts Peace Conference with National Organization for Women
|
|
|
On September 30, the Washington D.C. Branch (Branch Manager Chikodili Deborah Ekweozoh) co-hosted the 2024 International Women’s Peace Conference with the National Organization for Women, the largest grassroots feminist activist organization in the U.S., to commemorate HWPL’s 10th Anniversary of the World Peace Summit. A total of 37 female activists participated in the conference, and 23 joined IWPG as members.
Branch Manager Deborah moderated the panel discussion, with Zainab Al-Suwaij, co-founder of the American Islamic Congress, and Adrienne Schaffer, founder of the Military Children Six Foundation, participating as panelists. The panelists focused on building peace in the multicultural environments found in the nation’s capital and the role of women in this process.
The Participants were inspired after watching a video speech from the IWPG Chairwoman and felt motivated and empowered to contribute to peacebuilding through the insights shared by the panelists.
|
|
|
Mary Uzochukwu
Biafra
Community Senior Grammar School
Participant of Dutch qualifier for the 6th International Loving-Peace Art Competition |
|
|
1. What did you usually think of peace? Why?
|
|
|
As a Biafran child who wants peace, I usually think of peace as a time when everyone can live without fear, where there is no fighting, and everyone can go to school, play, and sleep without worry. Peace means being able to stay in my village with my family, not having to run away or hide because of Nigerian armies shooting and destroying our houses and markets, like in Owerri sometimes. It means having enough food to eat, clean water to drink, and being able to dream about the future. I think of peace this way because I have seen and heard about so much suffering and hardship when there is no peace. I have witnessed children facing hunger, and individuals living in fear because their houses were burned down while they were sleeping. I want a future where we can all be together, happy, and safe, without the continuous threat of violence and war. Peace means having the freedom to live our lives, to grow up, and to make our dreams come true. |
|
|
2. What did you usually think of war? |
|
|
As a Biafran child, I do not want war, I usually think of war as something very scary and terrible. War means people geting hurt and killed, families are separated, and many people have to leave their homes and everything they have behind. When I think of war, I see images of destruction, like buildings and fields where nothing can grow anymore. I hear stories of children like me losing their parents, friends, and even their own lives. War brings a lot of pain and sadness, and it makes it hard for anyone to feel safe and happy. I think of war this way because I have seen the effects it has on my community. I have heard the sounds of explosions and gunfire, and I have seen people crying because they have lost their loved ones. War destroys everything good, and it makes it impossible for us to live normal lives. I don't want war because I want to see my family, friends, and neighbors happy and safe. I want to go to school, play, and dream about a future without fear. |
|
|
3. What will be your hope participating in the competition? |
|
|
I hoped that my artwork would inspire others to think about the importance of peace and take action to achieve it. By sharing my drawing, I wanted to encourage my peers and community to work together for a better future. Participating in the competition was an opportunity for me to learn and grow as an artist. It challenged me to think deeply about peace and how I can contribute to it with my talents. I was not good at drawing before this time. I am happy I participated. The competition made me meet new people and other children from different countries and backgrounds, who draw and talk about peace. I will continue to draw and help promote peace in any way I can. The competition gave me a sense of community and encouraged me to express myself. It was a joy for me to present my art work during the competition. |
|
|
4. Is there any message you would like to send to those suffering from war?
|
|
|
I will say, these difficult times, when the shadows of war seem to darken every corner of your lives, I want to extend my heartfelt support and solidarity to each of you. I encourage your courage, resilience, and steady spirit in the face of such a situation. Remember that even in the darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope. Let your spirit be strong; you will overcome. Though the road ahead may seem long and uncertain, know that you are not alone. People around the world stand with you, hoping for peace and praying for your safety and well-being. Please take care of yourselves and each other. Support one another, and find strength in loving one another in your community. |
|
|
5. Is there anything you would like to do if world peace is realized? What is it?
|
|
|
I will work to help create a good community with other children. Encourage the promotion of our culture by promoting the sharing of the arts. I will also like to guide and inspire other young people to become leaders and change-makers, preparing them with the tools and confidence to build a better future. |
|
|
Information on Periodic Membership Dues 📨 |
|
|
Click the button below, if you want to pay the IWPG periodic membership dues or to donate.
|
|
|
International Women’s Peace Group
Chairwoman Hyun Sook Yoon
2nd Floor 22, Mabang-ro 4-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea (Yangjae-dong, Daewon Building)
Tel 02-577-7440 Fax 02-576-5990 E-mail iwpg@iwpg.org
|
|
|
|
|
