Global Citizens United for Peace: HWPL’s 12th Anniversary Marks a Movement in Action
On May 25, 2013, a powerful declaration echoed across the world from Seoul, South Korea — a call to end war and usher in an era of peace through collective citizen action. That message still rings loud today.
Twelve years later, the Declaration of World Peace, initiated by the international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), continues to inspire a global movement. This year’s 12th Annual Commemoration brought together more than 10,000 citizens and 1,600 public figures across 94 locations in 61 countries, both offline and online under one unified vision: We Are One.
A Global Celebration Rooted in Local Action
The commemorative events on May 23–24 were not just ceremonial. They were living, breathing examples of peace in motion. In eight countries, participants engaged online in peace-themed activities ranging from video presentations and reflections to community projects like the “Eco Ten Minutes Project.” This initiative encourages just 10 minutes of environmental action to beautify local areas and foster a culture of peace.
Attendees also learned about HWPL’s signature Peace Walk Campaign, a symbolic annual walk that began in 2013 to raise awareness of the need for global peace and the end of war. Over the years, these walks have mobilized countless youth and local citizens across continents to take action.
Voices that Inspire
The event began with a heartfelt letter from HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee, thanking participants and urging them forward in the cause of peace. His words reminded all present:
“Now that we have come together in heart and purpose here today, world peace has already begun.”
That spirit was echoed by speakers like Dr. Avadhuth M, Director of eTechnocrats, who reflected,
“Peace is not the silence of conflict but the harmony of understanding. It is the bridge that connects hearts beyond boundaries.”
And Md. Awsaf Rahman, Chapter Leader of KidsRights Foundation, powerfully declared,
“We are not just celebrating peace — we are creating it.”
Their messages struck a chord with participants and served as a reminder that peace is not a passive ideal, but a mission and shared responsibility that transcends national borders, religious affiliations, and generational gaps.
Peace as a Practice, Not Just a Promise
From quizzes that sparked reflection to shared photos of peace-building efforts, this year’s commemoration felt less like an event and more like a living network of people actively shaping the future. HWPL’s commitment to legislating peace, promoting peace education, and fostering interfaith dialogue is growing — not as a slogan, but as a sustained global effort.
As conflicts and divisions continue to challenge the world, gatherings like this show us what is possible when hearts unite.
🌱 The Message is Clear: We Are One
This year’s commemoration reminded us that peace doesn’t start with institutions — it starts with individuals. With every step in a peace walk, every cleaned neighborhood, and every shared word of hope, a new world is being built — one where understanding defeats hatred, and where unity overcomes division.
We are not just dreaming of peace. We are walking toward it. Together.
Source: https://reurl.cc/OYN9Zy
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