Youth and HWPL Unite for Peace in Latin America

Andean Parliament and HWPL Strengthen Youth-Led Peace Diplomacy

The Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) is bearing visible fruit in Latin America, where peace and diplomacy are being shaped by the hands of youth. On August 25, 2025 (local time), the HWPL Los Angeles branch and the Andean Parliament Peru branch co-hosted a historic forum and peace walk under the theme “Youth for Diplomacy and Peace (Juventud por la Diplomacia y la Paz).”

The event marked a milestone for Latin American youth taking leadership in international cooperation and sustainable peacebuilding.

Building a New Era of “Peace Diplomacy”

The forum brought together members of the Andean Parliament, HWPL representatives, youth leaders, and civil society figures. It emphasized the critical role of youth in advancing diplomacy, reconciliation, and peace in the region.

Fernando Arce, member of the Andean Parliament, delivered the keynote address:

“We must walk together and sow peace for the next generation. Youth are the hope opening a new era of diplomacy and peace.”

HWPL representatives echoed this vision, describing the event as “a starting point where youth become true actors of peace diplomacy.”

They also pledged ongoing cooperation with local communities through peace education and leadership training programs that nurture awareness, responsibility, and action.

Peace Walk: A Symbol of Generational Unity

Following the forum, participants joined a Peace Walk through the streets of Lima, Peru, declaring that “Peace is not a choice but a responsibility.”

The event became a symbol of solidarity that transcended generations and borders. One university student shared,

“Peace is not a distant dream — it’s something we can build together. I’m thankful that HWPL and the Andean Parliament gave us this opportunity to act.”

Institutionalizing Peace Diplomacy

HWPL and the Andean Parliament signed a joint declaration committing to institutional cooperation for peace. The agreement includes initiatives such as:

• Youth diplomacy internships

• Peace education partnerships

• Leadership development programs for local communities

Both sides affirmed that this collaboration will strengthen the foundations of youth-driven diplomacy and expand peace movements throughout Latin America.

DPCW: Legalizing the Path to Peace

At the close of the event, participants signed their support for the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) — a legal framework drafted by international law experts and officially proclaimed by HWPL on March 14, 2016.

Comprising 10 articles and 38 clauses, the DPCW provides concrete measures for conflict prevention, dispute resolution, and lasting peace. Governments, parliaments, and civil society leaders worldwide continue to adopt resolutions supporting it — from Central America and Africa’s Pan-African Parliament, to Caribbean and Southeast Asian nations.

HWPL reaffirmed:

“Peace is not achieved through declarations alone but through generations acting together.”

A Legacy of Peace in Peru

HWPL’s connection with Peru goes back more than a decade. During the 9th Peace Tour in 2014, Chairman Man Hee Lee met with Inca community leaders and signed a peace agreement symbolizing unity between Korean and Andean civilizations.

That historic moment planted the first seeds of peace diplomacy that have now blossomed into youth-led initiatives like the 2025 Andean Forum.

As one organizer summarized,

“The flame of youth peace movements in Latin America will spread across the world — from the Andes to every nation seeking hope.”

Source: https://vo.la/PZUxGqh