former Director of Broadcasting at Tajala Radio –
Afganistan
In a time marked by global conflicts and growing ideological divisions, an international initiative led by the South Korea-based NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) has emerged as a powerful beacon of hope. The organization recently held the 12th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace across 94 locations in 61 countries, bringing together over 10,000 citizens and 1,600 public figures, including participants from conflict-affected regions like Afghanistan.
A Global Call to End War
First proclaimed by HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee on May 25, 2013, in Seoul’s Olympic Park before a crowd of 30,000 youth, the Declaration of World Peace serves as a moral call to action. It urges global citizens to reject war and work collectively for lasting peace. This year’s commemoration, held both online and offline from May 23 to 24, amplified that message with heartfelt unity, echoing through continents and cultures.
Voices from Afghanistan and Beyond
The event was attended by participants from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Maldives, Canada, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Iran, with a total of 94 participants joining online sessions. Afghan citizens, including youth and activists, took part in peace-themed activities and discussions, emphasizing the significance of cross-border solidarity.
Chairman Man Hee Lee, in a letter read aloud at the event, wrote: “Now that we have come together in heart and purpose here today, world peace has already begun. Let us move forward together toward a world of peace without war.”
His words carried deep resonance in regions still reeling from violence and instability, including Afghanistan, where the call for peace remains urgent and personal.
The Peace Walk and “Eco Ten Minutes” Movement
A central element of the event was the Peace Walk Campaign, a youth-led initiative advocating an end to war through public demonstrations. Since 2013, these symbolic walks have been held globally as a visual and participatory expression of hope. This year, a related program—the “Eco Ten Minutes Project”—was introduced, encouraging individuals to spend ten minutes cleaning their local environments to promote peace through action.
Participants shared photos of their local efforts, creating a visual tapestry of global unity. From Kabul to Kolkata, the message was clear: small acts of kindness can lead to a more peaceful world.
Inspiring Words from Global Peace Leaders
Speakers at the event delivered passionate appeals for continued peace-building: Dr. Avadhuth M, Director of eTechnocrats, shared: “Peace is not the silence of conflict but the harmony of understanding… It is the light that illuminates truth in diversity.”
Mr. Awsaf Rahman, Chapter Leader of the KidsRights Foundation, emphasized: “We are not just celebrating peace—we are creating it. Peace is not an idea, but a shared responsibility, a movement that transcends borders and generations.”
Uplifting Unity Amid Global Tensions
The event concluded with a symbolic shout of HWPL’s motto: “We Are One.” Participants joined virtually in a commemorative group photo, their unity serving as a striking contrast to the division and violence unfolding elsewhere in the world.
