Securing Lasting Peace in the Balkans: HWPL Host International Conference at Libertas International University

Can the scarred history of the Balkans offer vital answers to global conflict resolution today?

On February 26, 2026, Libertas International University in Zagreb, Croatia hosted a pivotal international peace conference titled "From War to Peace: Our Responsibility for Sustainable Peace." Organised by HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), the gathering brought together former heads of state, legal scholars, diplomats, civil society leaders, and youth to address conflict prevention in the region.

The Role of International Law and the DPCW

Given Croatia's historic experience with the 1990s Balkan conflict, speakers highlighted the imperative need for legally binding global mechanisms to prevent war.

• Ivo Josipović (Former President of Croatia): Moderated the conference and emphasized the regional experience in peacebuilding, calling for heightened international awareness.

• Enver Hasani (Professor of International Law, University of Prishtina): Pointed to gaps in current international law as root causes of ongoing conflicts. He noted that HWPL’s Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) reflects fundamental principles of international law and contributes significantly to institutionalizing global peace.

• Ivan Grdešić (Dean of International Relations and Diplomacy, Libertas International University): Reaffirmed that international legal frameworks remain essential to guiding state behaviour and fostering peaceful dispute resolution.

Civil Society, Faith, and Youth Beyond Conflict

Participants noted that peace legal frameworks must be sustained by active civic and interfaith engagement:

• Ankica Marinović (Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Social Research in Zagreb): Highlighted that world religions can serve as powerful instruments for tolerance, dialogue, and global solidarity.

• Lejla Nuhanović (OSCE Mission Political Officer & Peace Activist): Reflected on lessons from the Dayton Agreement in Bosnia and Herzegovina, stating that ending war requires continuous trust-building and inclusive political institutions.

• Youth Engagement: Students from Libertas International University actively engaged in Q&A sessions with panelists, exploring their roles as future peacebuilders.

Building Sustainable Peace Infrastructure

An HWPL representative concluded: "This conference affirmed our shared responsibility across academia, law, civil society, and youth. HWPL will continue working with international partners to build an enduring culture of peace."

Source: https://vo.la/w83hZP2