Amidst Global Turmoil, Citizens Unite for Peace

As conflicts erupt worldwide, threatening global security and coexistence, hope of peace emerges
from citizens. In May 2024, citizens across all continents will join hands for HWPL’s 11th Annual
Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace and Peace Walk, organized by a UN-affiliated
NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). Themed “Communication for
Global Citizenship of Reconciliation and Tolerance”, this event aims to cultivate and share a global
culture of peace.
The flagship event commenced on May 25 at the Peace Gate of Seoul Olympic Park sponsored by
the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs of Korea, while in about 50 countries, the Peace Walks
are complemented by diverse peace-building activities.
The worldwide events include landmark walks reflecting each nation’s unique character, alongside
peace performances, video screenings, photo exhibitions, poster drawings, sports activities, bazaars,
and volunteer opportunities. Tree planting ceremonies and “free hugs” initiatives further emphasize
the spirit of unity and environmental well-being.
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 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,” adding, “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.”
HWPL recently issued a statement on the Israel-Iran conflict and highlighted the devastating impact
on civilians. “Organizations worldwide, in alliance with HWPL as peace solidarity, urge Iran and Israel
to put a stop to the acts of aggression immediately and to come forward for conversations to usher in
peace,” the statement said.