Participants Emphasize Inner Peace and Everyday Action as the Foundation for Global Harmony
The event followed the 11th Annual HWPL September 18th World Peace Summit held last month in Cheongju, South Korea, continuing HWPL’s global initiative to promote a culture of peace. Organizers described the forum as “not a one-time event, but part of a continuous journey to practice peace in everyday life.”
Addressing a World of Conflict
According to the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO), there were 61 armed conflicts between nations in 2024 — the highest number since World War II. HWPL Netherlands–Belgium Branch highlighted the toll of these ongoing conflicts, noting that “half of Europe’s population now experiences anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts due to prolonged instability.”
The branch emphasized that inner peace is essential to overcoming these challenges.
“Through this forum, we aim to help citizens rediscover the essence of peace and realize that each person can become the starting point of social change,” the organizers stated.
Peace Leaders and Voices of Hope
About 80 participants attended the event, which featured a series of sessions including opening and welcoming remarks, congratulatory speeches, keynote addresses, and HWPL’s annual peace report.
Among the distinguished speakers were:
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Andy Vermaut, Representative of the Fundamental Rights Movement of PostVersa (delivering the congratulatory address)
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Stephan Eshuis, Representative of Peace Café
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May-May Meijer, Chairperson of Peace SOS
Their speeches collectively called for solidarity, empathy, and the importance of transforming personal peace into shared peace — moving from “My Peace” to “Our Peace.”
Continuing the Journey Toward “Eternal Peace”
The forum reinforced HWPL’s commitment to sustaining peace efforts not only through international conferences but also through local and personal actions.
By focusing on healing, awareness, and collective responsibility, HWPL Netherlands–Belgium Branch continues to inspire communities across Europe to take part in building a world rooted in understanding and compassion.
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