The Netherlands, a country renowned
for its picturesque landscapes, tulips, and windmills, is also the lighthouse
of peace and prosperity in Europe. Not only is it known for its strong, well-organized
mixed economy, but it also holds a prestigious place in rankings for press
freedom, economic freedom, human development, and quality of life. In 2022, it
ranked 6th in the Positive Peace Index, highlighting its commitment to creating
a harmonious and prosperous society.
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| Image from Pixbay |
The Hague: A City of Peace
The Hague, in particular, is globally recognized as a city of peace. It is home to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), situated within the Peace Palace. This setting has historically served as a hub for discussing and legally resolving international disputes. The Hague’s identity as a city of peace makes it a fitting backdrop for the activities of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the advocator of peace.
HWPL’s Peace Education in the Netherlands
Despite the nation's peaceful status, HWPL posits that peace education is crucial, especially for future generations. In The Hague, schools already offer a variety of special programs, including character and religious education. HWPL’s peace education initiative has been introduced as part of this diverse curriculum.
What sets HWPL’s peace education apart is its practical and effective approach, which has garnered significant enthusiasm from participants. Notably, three educational organizations in the Netherlands – The Hague’s Dialogue, Kid Event, and the Dutch Peace Education Project – have already signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with HWPL. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to fostering peace through education.
Image from Cheonji Ilbo
Leaders’ Endorsements and Expanding Influence
Leaders of these organizations, like Wendy Meijer of The Hague’s Dialogue and Steven Dias Pires of Kid Event, express a strong alignment with HWPL’s mission. They recognize the importance of educating the next generation in peaceful coexistence and eagerly anticipate collaborative efforts in peace education.
Furthermore, the influence of HWPL’s peace education extends beyond the Netherlands. In Aruba, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, HWPL’s initiatives have also gained traction. Online workshops and peace teacher training programs have been met with positive feedback. Prominent figures in Aruba, like Nora Ilenora from the Soroptimist International Club, have praised the peace education materials for their accessibility and eco-friendliness. Other participants of this training expressed high expectation for conducting HWPL’s peace program in school at Aruba.
Looking Forward: Collaboration with
UNESCO and Local Governments
As HWPL’s Peace Education Department
continues to expand its reach, its goals include implementing peace education
in schools and collaborating with the Dutch National Commission for UNESCO and
local municipalities. These efforts signify a robust drive towards integrating
peace education into the broader educational framework, impacting students and
educators alike.
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| Image from Cheonji Ilbo |
The Netherlands' journey with HWPL peace education underscores a vital truth: peace is not just the absence of conflict but a proactive effort that must be nurtured through education and collaboration. By embracing these initiatives, the Netherlands continues to pave the way for a future where peace is a fundamental aspect of every community.
Image from HWPL facebook
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