미디어

    57th  

Aug 2023    

In July, International Women`s Peace Group (IWPG) once again united with women worldwide to bloom the flowers of peace. IWPG first organized the preliminary rounds of the "International Loving-Peace Art Competition" in 117 cities across 61 countries, planting the seeds of peace in the hearts of children. Women leaders promoted the "Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War" (DPCW) and advocated for its legislation, while also actively conducting Peace Lecturer Training Education (PLTE). Furthermore, IWPG continued activities such as the Women Leader`s Peace Forum, International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting, and signing ceremonies for agreements aimed at realizing peace initiatives. IWPG`s efforts towards peace notably reached Ethiopia. IWPG`s Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee, engaged in discussions about peace with committee member of National dialog of Ethiopia. These strides towards peace were also highlighted in Ethiopia`s media.

“We Love Peace”… Child Dreams Demonstrated through Drawings

- The Preliminary Rounds of the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition Take Place

IWPG holds the International Loving-Peace Art Competition every year with different themes each year to sow the seed of hope for world peace and to draw a realistic world of peace in children and youth, the heroes of the future. The competition first began in 2018 and marks its fifth anniversary this year. Each year, the preliminary rounds are hosted in different countries from May to August. The final evaluation and the award ceremony take place from September to November in South Korea. 

The theme for this year is “A World of Peace Learned from Nature”. The preliminary rounds took with a total of 10,025 children and youth in attendance. 

Africa

Tanzania Dar es Salaam Branch

IWPG Dar es Salaam Branch in Tanzania hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round award ceremony. The ceremony took place at Dabe Building with more than 40 children, youth, and parents attendings, as well as many organizations and media outlets, including Fatma Kikkides (Deputy Director, JMAT), Raham Kiriwe (Director, UDSM) , ITV, STAR TV, TVE, BISO NA BISO TV, ALK KHERI TV. 
The International Loving-Peace Art Competition was held for the second time this year at the Dar es Salaam Branch in Tanzania. Branch Manager Pendo Addie Mwasakyeni of IWPG Dar es Salaam shared, “I hope to invite the Minister of Education and Minister of Culture next year. We will promote more so that children and students can participate in larger venues.” 
Marion Charles (Marian Girls’ High School), who won an award, said, “I’m so glad to be able to participate in a peace-themed art competition and win an award. I hope to place first in the finals as well.” A parent also said, “It warms my heart to see the children happy. I thank IWPG for hosting this event. IWPG must exist forever for peace in the world.” 
In the Elementary School Division, Joshua Zacharia Elisha (Misingi Sombetini Primary Schoo, Aursha) placed 1st, Aneth Jemini Mushi (Doris Primary School, Dar Es Salaam) placed 2nd, and Mariamu Said Selemani (Msingi Sombetini Primary School Arusha) came in 3rd. In the Middle School Division, Mika Deus Kapalangao (Miwibila Secondary School, Iringa) placed 1st, Hilga Edson Chaula (Mtwibila Secondary School, Iringa) placed 2nd, and Christian Chaula (Mtwibila Secondary School, Iringa) placed 3rd. In the High School Division, Marion Charles (Marian Girls’ High School, Dar Es Salaam) won 1st place.

Tanzania Iringa Branch

Iringa Branch in Tanzania hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round award ceremony on the 20th. Children, youth, and parents attended the ceremony that took place at Mtwivila Secondary School.
Iringa Branch Manager Mkaniba Ngoboka stated, “It is an honor to give children and students in the Iringa region the opportunity to participate in the International Loving-Peace Art Competition where they can think of peace and nature. I hope there will be more opportunities to spread the culture of peace through various events.” 
The student who won 1st place commented, “I am grateful that I won the international competition hosted by IWPG. I will continue to participate in the competition.”

Uganda Branch

On the 8th, Uganda Branch held the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round at Mbazzi Riverside High School and Cruciform Life International Ministries. There were 30 high school students present, and the preliminary round ceremony also took place.

Kenya Branch

On the 3rd, the Kenya Branch held the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round at Rona School of Excellent and Orengo Primary School in the Bondo area. A heated peace art competition was held with more than 30 Kenyan students present.

Cote d’Ivoire

IWPG Global Region 7 hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition with Cote d’Ivoire, a partner country, from the 11th to the 13th. This event was co-hosted with IWPG, and APROFEM, Program for the protection of vulnerable children and adolescents Department under the Ministry of Women, Family And Children. 
Seven organizations from five regions, including Agboville, Grand Bassam, Dabou, Abidjan, and Marandallah, attended and more than 100 students participated. Students who attended took a commemorative photo while holding the Cote d`Ivoire flag. 
The President of APROFEM, Ms. Traore, shared, “the International Loving-Peace Art Competition is a meaningful competition that teaches children and youth the value and importance of peace.”

Sao Tome and Principe

On the 22nd, the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition was successfully completed in Sao Tome and Principe, a partner country of Global Region 3. The children showed off their creative drawing skills using their diverse imaginations. This was the first year Sao Tome and Principe participated in the competition, and they vowed to continue to cooperate in the work of peace and participate in the art competition.

Europe

Germany Berlin Branch

Berlin Branch held the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round evaluation on July 18 at the East Side Gallery. 
Kani Alavi, who is also the gallerist, signed an MOA with the Berlin Branch in April. Since then, he has been promoting IWPG at the forefront by actively participating in events hosted by the Berlin Branch. Kani Alavi commented, “Children are full of imagination, so I am inspired when I see their drawings.”

The Americas

Colombia

Colombia, a partner country of Global Region 2, and Brisas del Norte co-hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round at Guajira Riohacha. The award ceremony took place on the 18th at Guajira Riohacha. There were 160 attendees including children, youth, and parents. The competition was judged by Milagros Arauju, Kelly Elena, Barros, and Yackeline Villalobos of the North Brisas Foundation Headquarters. In line with the theme of “A World of Peace Learned from Nature”, the evaluation was very strict, based on the harmony and artistry of colors, creativity, and originality. 
The winners for the Elementary School Division are Darieimy Garcia (U.E. Las Delicia, 9 years old) in 1st place, Carol Michel (U.E. Sierra Nevada, 12 years old) in 2nd place, and Dallana Granados (Colegia La Urbana, 14 years old) in 3rd place. 
The winners for the Middle School Division are Amauri Baldeblanquez (U. E. Sierra Nevada, 15 years old) in 1st place, Dayanis Granados(Colegio Nuevo Horizonte, 15 years old) in 2nd place, and Ana Sofia Gutierrez(Colegio Maria Doralisa, 15 years old) in 3rd place.

Middle East·North Africa

Palestine

The 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round award ceremony took place on the 10th in Palestine, a partner country of Global Region 2. It was co-hosted by Women of the Sun Organization and the Vision Association for Culture and Art and sponsored by Israel-Palestine for Peace Organization. The ceremony was held at the office of Women of the Sun, with 30 people including children and adults. 
Director Reem Al Hajajreh of Women of the Sun explained, “The children have artistically expressed a peaceful world to realize the spirit of peace and foster a sense of community through this competition.” Lujain Brigheth, who placed 2nd in the High School Division, shared, “I am honored and grateful to be able to participate and win an award in a peace-themed art competition.” For the Elementary School Division, Sara Makhtoub won 1st, Zina Saleh 2nd, and Nouran Othman 3rd. In the Middle School Division, Mouhamad Yousef placed 1st, Tala Izhaq 2nd, and Issa Abo Sada 3rd. In the High School Division, Hussam Salah won 1st, Lujain Brigheth 2nd, and Tala Sarhan 3rd.

Lebanon

On the 20th, Georges Daoud (The General Director of Elementary Education, Ministry of Education and Higher Education [MEHE]) and Sawa Association for Development co-hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round award ceremony, which took place in Lebanon, a partner country with Global Region 2. This competition took place at the elementary education office of the Ministry of Education. Imad Al-Ashkar (Director General, MEHE) and General Director of Elementary Education, Georges Daoud, opened the event to public and private schools, resulting in 800 participants from 40 schools.
Nawal Mdallaly (Founder, Sawa Association for Development) expressed her gratitude and said, “I am grateful to the Ministry of Education and the General Director of Elementary Education for allowing participation from public and private schools. I also thank IWPG for their efforts to establish the principles of peace in all the countries. I hope the winners receive good results in the finals.” General Director George Daoud also expressed, “I sincerely congratulate the winners and appreciate the efforts of IWPG and Sawa Association for Development for bringing the concept of peace to the schools in Lebanon.”
Jana Rabih Makieh (American Universal School) placed 1st, Abd Al Wareth Ali Rifa (Karkaf School) 2nd, and Hiba Nazih Rifai (Rafic Hariri School) 3rd for the Elementary School Division. In the Middle School Division, Rahaf Oday Daher (Antonine Sisters School) placed 1st, Nour Hisham Al Ayoubi (Deddeh Intermediate School) was 2nd, and Abd Al Rahman Khaled Mikati (Rafic Hariri School) won 3rd. 
For the High School Division, Jawaher Abdalllah Al Ghoul (Riad Solh Secondary School) placed 1st, Asile Al Ahmadieh (Amjad Secondary School) placed 2nd, and Leen Nasib Chams (Riad Solh Secondary School) placed 3rd. The award ceremony was reported on National News Agency, Al-Hiwar News, and February Newspaper.

The Palestinian Women’s Humanitarian Organization co-hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition preliminary round in Lebanon. There were 130 students who attended from Al Yarmouk School, Al Bireh School, Jaloud School, Quods School, Haifa School, Al Jalile School, Al Jaleel School and the Palestinian Women`s Humanitarian Organization (PWHO). After the competition and the judging process, the award ceremony took place. 
Sara Barakji (Project Manager, Palestinian Women’s Humanitarian Organization) shared, “This competition was very important because it gave all the students an opportunity to express peace. It gave hope to the children who were anxious after the earthquakes in Lebanon over the past few months.”
The students received awards this day were Maram Abo Swaid (Al Jalile School, High, Special),  Joury Muhammad Hariri (Al Yarmouk School, Elementary, 1st), Rayan Coptan (Al Yarmouk School, Elementary, 2nd), Mariam Ahmad Latof (PWHO, Elementary, 3rd), Rasha Nader Jardo (Al Yarmouk School, Elementary, 3rd), Maria Al Saleh (Al Jaloud School, Middle, 1st), Rouaa Ghanayma (Haifa School, Middle, 2nd), Mariam Murad (Haifa School, Middle, 2nd), Najlaa Ahmad Al Sahli (Haifa School, Middle, 3rd), Maria Amjad Badawi (PWHO, High, 1st), Bissan Al Mousa (Al Jaleel School, High, 2nd), and Wafaa Al Fout (Al Jaleel School, High, 3rd).

Asia

Nepal Branch

IWPG Nepal Branch held the preliminary round for the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition on the 7th with 100 students. This competition took place at Asphodel Public School, which represents Nepal’s old traditions. IWPG was introduced to the people during the opening of the preliminary round. The participants drew with earnest hopes of a world without war and only peace. Principal Birendra Prakash Shrestha of Asphodel Public School commented, “It is amazing that the students drew creative drawings while thinking about peace and nature. I hope events like this continue so that peace does not leave the students’ hearts. I would like to express my gratitude to IWPG for planning and hosting a great event.”
Vice Principal Biva kalika Malla Shrestha also shared, “I was moved to see the students draw with excitement and joy. I hope we don’t end with just one event but continue to have more like this.”

Sri Lanka

Global Region 3 held the preliminary round of the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition on the 20th at Green Hill, Apolo International School and 6 cities of Lyceum International School (Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Ratnapura, Gampaha, Wattala, Panadur) in Sri Lanka.  
School Coordinator Janitha Dissanayake emphasized, “I am glad to have this special opportunity to participate in planting peace in children around the world. We can greet a brighter future by spreading a culture of peace to the minds of children.”
She added, “If we sow the seed of peace today, we can make a more harmonious world tomorrow. Let us plant the seed of understanding, love and unity through art and creation. I would like to thank IWPG once again for inviting us in the journey of achieving their commitment to making a better world.”

Afganistan

On the 13th, Global Region 3 hosted the preliminary round for the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition at Afghanistan International School located in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Principal Breshna Yarmand shared, “The students learned how a peaceful society affects their lives. When there’s peace, children can achieve many things. We submitted beautiful art works that express the imagination of the children who drew about peace.”

India

Global Region 3 successfully completed the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition in Madurai, India, on the 16th. The children at the EKTA Resources Centre for Women submitted drawings completed under the theme of “A World of Peace Learned from Nature”. EKTA Resources Centre for Women has been cooperating in various peace projects with IWPG every year since signing an MOA in 2015.

Global Region 3 hosted the preliminary round of the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition at New Era English in Uttar Pradesh, India, on the 22nd. 
Principal Nazar Alam commented, “We are very happy to hold a memorable art competition at our school. We value IWPG’s cooperation very much. Students had a meaningful and joyful time during the art competition.” Principal Alam also added, “Through the International Loving-Peace Art Competition, many countries that participated were able to become one. I wish IWPG all the success. Thank you everyone.”

Global Region 3 also successfully hosted the preliminary round of the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition at Vellore and Chennai in Tamil Nadu, India, on June 28th.
Shanthi Socrates, Representative of IWPG Chennai Peace Committee and President of Sanju Women’s Welfare Association, was the bridge in encouraging 7 schools (Sri Ramakrishna Mission Sarada Vidyalaya Mat.Hr.Sec.School, Narayana E-Techno CBSE, Narayana Etechno school, Cambridge matric higher secondary school, Sarada Vidyalaya Girls higher secondary school, Sarada Vidyalaya middle school, Sri Rkm Sarada Model Hr.Sec.School) to actively participate in the work of spreading peace culture. This resulted in 1,039 artworks submitted for this year’s competition. 
President Shanthi Socrates expressed, “I believe this competition is a time where children can develop their artistic skills, express their creativity. This experience is a present, and it opens a way for children to be acknowledged. The children gathered their thoughts and put in their best efforts to depict it on one piece of paper. It brought awareness that the peace in the children’s mind starts from each person.”

Pakistan

Global Region 3 hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition on June 15th at The Trust School located in Lahore, Pakistan. As it was the second time for the Pakistani students since last year, they were able to show off their skills with more colorful paintings. 
Mr. Jahanzeb Siddiqui, a teacher at The Trust School, emphasized, “This event is a strong platform for spreading love, happiness, and peace around the world. It is important to plant an appreciation for the value of peace to the youth who are the future.” He also added, “We can convey a message of peace to the world through drawings that includes their creativity and artistry. I sincerely thank IWPG for allowing this precious opportunity to participate in making peace.”

Bangladesh, Dhaka

On the 1st, Global Region 3 co-hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition with Charumela Art School and Altamira School of Fine Art. 
Founder & Director Artisit Zakirul Islam Sohel of the Charumela Art School, shared, “IWPG has been hosting the International Loving-Peace Art Competition in various countries for world peace. On behalf of Bangladesh, Charumela Art School would like to wish good luck to IWPG, who is doing great things for world peace.”

Director Jhara moni Biswas of Altamira school of Fine Art commented, “This competition is a great opportunity for many students to share the message of world peace. I would like to thank IWPG for giving us this opportunity to sow the seed of peace.”

Global Region 10, Conducts Overseas Preliminary Round Evaluation Online

Global Region 10 hosted the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition overseas preliminary round evaluation online on the 1st. Professor Monica Nickolai, a member of IWPG, conducted the evaluation. She has a master’s and Ph.D. from School of the Art Institute of Writing Chicago (MFAW) and is an artist. She also is a painter who actively holds several exhibitions in the U.S and abroad. 
Professor Nickolai expressed, “I reviewed 150 drawings from Albania, Turkiye, and Pakistan over a long period of time in depth, focusing on the theme, creativity, and the level of completion. I hope there will be good results. I hope the children will continue to think of peace through the International Loving-Peace Art Competition and realize that they are the heroes of achieving peace.” 
After the evaluation, the winners for each country were announced. Jinx Liaqat (Saint Mary’s School, 11 years old), Maheen Gulzar (St. Francis Girl`s High School, 14 years old), and Sana Arshad (Surraya Ashfaq Girls High School, 16 years old) from Pakistan, Hauka Takagi (Ichiba Junior High School, 14 years old) from Japan, Livia Dushi (Grade Pjeter Budi) from Albania, Beya Yilmaz (Ka?ıthane Final Schools, fourth grade) from Turkiye, and Daniel Svacez (Uplift Ascend High School) from Texas won 1st place.  

Advocacy of the `DPCW` for a law of peace

- Uniting and advocating for the UN adoption of the DPCW all around the world

Global Region 2 urges female leaders to support the `DPCW`

IWPG Global Region 2 gathered female leaders including Shafiqa Saeed Abdo (Chairperson, Women National Committee of Yemen), Ramia Al-eryani (President, Yemen Peace School Organization), Saba Gebre Medhin Hagos (Executive Director, Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations), Ahlam Beydoun (International Association of Women Judges), and Tahani Abu Daqqa (Former Palestinian Minister of Culture, former head of the Palestinian Solar Renewable Energy Strategy Development Group) to promote the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) and urge for its necessity and institutionalization. 

Saba Gebre Medhin said, “NEWA has been working for the past 3 years during the Ethiopian civil war and the COVID-19 pandemic. We have understood the mindset of peace through continuous cooperation and communication with IWPG and have voluntarily participated in peace work.” 

NEWA (Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations) has been hosting webinars every week, and has formed a Peacebuilding Team of approximately 100 people, reaching out to the Ethiopian president and Ergogie Tesfaye, the Minister of Women and Social Affairs. 

Dr. Shafiqa Saeed Abdo said, “Yemen has been in war for a very long time, and children, women, and youth were sacrificed. Numerous international organizations tried to help, but nothing has changed. I’m surprised by the video on IWPG’s activities in Yemen. I have told the Yemen government of the importance of working with IWPG, and I expect to learn much by participating in HWPL’s Sep 18 World Peace Summit.” 

Ahlam Beydoun said, “I want to participate in HWPL’s Sep 18 World Peace Summit, and I will promote IWPG to more women so that we can change Lebanon.” 

This meeting was an opportunity for everyone to come together to support the DPCW as a UN resolution. Another meeting for women of different social backgrounds will be held in August. 

Das es Salaam Branch urges for support of the `DPCW`

Das es Salaam Branch of Tanzania participated in activities and interviews to promote and support the institutionalization of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). Along with the 5th International Loving-Peace Art Competition, this was reported on Upendo TV, Star TV, and BisonaBiso Online TV.

Pendo Addie Mwasakyeni (Das es Salaam Branch Manager) said in an interview, “The practical solution to peace is introducing the DPCW to the UN. Women all around the world must come together so pass down a world of peace without war as a present to the future generation.” 

In her interview, the Branch Manager of Das es Salaam discussed various peace projects that IWPG is conducting to build a world of peace, such as HWPL & IWPG joint projects, DPCW, and the International Loving-Peace Art Competition.

Melbourne Branch urges for the support of `DPCW`

On the 13th, Melbourne Branch of Australia met with Cr. Virginia Tachos (Brimbank City Council), Saajeda Samaa (Community coordinator and human rights advocate), Maria Goimba (PNG Women`s Association of Victoria), and Dr. Fulata Moyo (World Council of Churches, Board Member) to actively promote IWPG peace activities. 

Cr. Virginia Tachos said, “I want to cooperate with schools for female peace leadership programs. I want to promote IWPG’s peace activities and DPCW to other city council members. I would love to support.” 

Dr. Fulata Moyo said, “There are debates taking place in the UN to end genocide (the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group). I will introduce DPCW in future UN meetings.” 

Peace Lecturer Training Education (PLTE) Peacebuilding Efforts

- Peace Realized through Female Peace Lecturers

Tanzania holds a Women Peace Lecturer Meeting

On July 12th and 13th, IWPG Global Region 2 held a PLTE meeting in 3 regions in Tanzania (Das es Salaam, Arusha, Iringa) with Women Peace Lecturers to discuss PLTE plans. 

Frida Sebastian Ombella (Representative of Dar es Salaam Peace Committee), Lilian Msaki (Representative of Arusha Peace Committee), and Mkanibwa Magoti Ngoboka (Representative of Iringa Peace Committee), actively promoted IWPG to gather many new members, and are taking the first steps to spread PLTE nationwide.

Also, IWPG Das es Salaam Branch Manager Pendo Addie and the three Peace Committee Representatives, Frida Sebastian Ombella, Lilian Msaki, and Mkanibwa Magoti Ngoboka, gave a briefing on their visions as a Peace Lecturer, and all the participants actively shared their thoughts on PLTE. The participants also discussed the value of PLTE, partnership with other organizations, member recruitment methods, and other various practical ways to facilitate peace education within Tanzania.

From July 12th to 14th, Frida Sebastian Ombella, Lilian Msaki, Mkanibwa Magoti Ngoboka, and other multiple Peace Lecturers introduced PLTE to women in each region and encouraged them to join IWPG as members. 

Lilian Msaki said, “I will teach people the value of women’s peace education and introduce IWPG’s peace activities so that the seed of peace can be placed in the hearts of Tanzanian women.” 

Women Peace Lecturers in Tanzania are looking forward to the new IWPG members to become peace lecturers through PLTE education so that many women can come together under peace. 

Global Region 10 conducts PLTE in Kazakhstan

On July 19th, Global Region 10 conducted PLTE lesson 7 for class 2-2-1. Aizhan Orazeyeva, an enthusiastic PLTE student, said, “I always look forward to the next lesson. As an IWPG member, I always end up thinking about what I can do to achieve peace as a woman and a mother. I hope more women in Kazakhstan unite as one under IWPG.”

Women Around the World Uniting Under Peace

Global Region 4, holds the 2nd Women Leaders’ Peace Forum

On the 22nd, Global Region 4 held the 2nd Women Leaders’ Peace Forum online with 63 participants from 8 countries including Korea, Myanmar, Thailand, East Timor, South Sudan, Rwanda, Cameroon, and Burundi. 
The forum consisted of mainly 3 parts. During the first session, female leaders from the realm of law, religion, education, media, and society came forward to share examples on ways to achieve peace and practice them. The second session consisted of small breakout discussions, after which all the participants came back together to present the results of their discussions. 
Commemorative Speaker Kathleen Thein (Founder, Ingyuin May Hindu Women Network) encouraged others to cooperate with IWPG by saying, “I am proud of IWPG’s achievements in trying to actively partner with female leaders all around the world. IWPG is working with female leaders to put an end to war and achieve world peace. Let’s all come together with IWPG.”
 Jackline Nasiwa (Executive Director, Centre for Inclusive Governance, Peace and Justice), said, “I urge everyone to work with IWPG to support the DPCW so that it is adopted within the country. Let’s all work together. DPCW is the gateway to world peace. 
Mungunsi Ruth Mernainsi (Financial Secretary, Christian Development Group) said, “It was a great peace forum. I leaned so much from others’ perspectives. If IWPG closely cooperates with the correct female leaders, peace will spread all around the world.”

Global Region 4, holds the International Women’s Peace Network in East Timor

On June 25th, Global Region 4 held the International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting online. During the meeting, IWPG shared the plans for the second part of the year and what more they could do as IWPG members. short briefing, the participants could really sense that peace was spreading all across East Timor and the world. The participants also discussed plans for the second part of the year and what more they could do as IWPG members. 

Felicidade Victoria Timora Dos Santos Takeleb (Lautos Si Animators) said, “Through PLTE, I could learn how to practice peace work and how to achieve pace. We should build peace amongst ourselves and work together with others. I am grateful to be able to share peace with my friends and community.” The Art Competition was amazing. All the participants looked happy. Through their small actions, children demonstrated who brings peace and who achieves it. The principal also wanted to host the event together next year as well. It planted peace in the children and all around the country. I will teach PLTE to my community and plant the seed of peace in my friends and family.” 

Noni Bonaparte de Jesus dos Santos (accountant, President University Student Union) said, “I want peace to be achieved as an individual. We need to introduce IWPG to others so that they know more about peace. So I will work to tell others how they can work with IWPG.” 

Tokyo Branch holds the International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting

On 26th, Tokyo Branch of Japan held the International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting online. Led by Tokyo Branch Manager Ootawara Masako, 11 members gathered under the theme “Anti-aging: Peace Work, the Key to Youth.” The meeting was an opportunity for members to bond and to introduce the 18th Sep, HWPL World Peace Summit.

Berlin Branch holds the International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting

On 28th, Berlin Branch in Germany held the July International Women’s Peace Network Regular Meeting at Cafe Pepe. The picnic had to be cancelled due to unexpected rainfall, but the participants gathered at a cafe to share ideas for the events planned in August.

IWPG Peace Activities Reported Worldwide

- Global Regional Director 2 Seo Yeon Lee Receiving Floods of Interview Requests

Interview with Ethiopia OBN
- IWPG Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee discusses peace with Yonas Adaye Adeto, committee member of National dialog

IWPG Global Region 2 (Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee) was interviewed online by Ethiopia OBN Broadcast twice on July 13 and 19. The interview was led by Addis Assefa, and the 2nd interview on the 19th took place with Yonas Adaye Adeto (Director, Institute for Peace and Security, Addis Ababa University).
During the interview, Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee stated the blueprint of IWPG’s peacebuilding plans in Ethiopia and cooperation at the national level.

* Interview video link: https://youtu.be/TeBLu_GhXas

Interview with Ethiopia ENA
- Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee states “the most practical and groundbreaking solution for peace”

IWPG Global Region 2 (Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee) was interviewed online by Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) on July 3. 
ENA is an Ethiopia national broadcast established in 1942 that reports domestic and international news to  government institutions, companies, organizations, and communities. 
The interview was led by Desta Kahsay, focusing on IWPG’s peace projects and its plans in Ethiopia. 
When asked how IWPG is intervening to support women and give them more authority in an African country susceptible to war, Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee said that IWPG is urging for the institutionalization of the most practical and groundbreaking solution to peace, Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), through the UN; training peace leaders through Women Peace Education; forming an international partnership network; and spreading a culture of peace.
* The full article with Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee’s interview with ENA :

https://www.ena.et/web/eng/w/eng_3105563

Interview with Ethiopia Addis TV
- Spreading a Culture of Peace in Communities through People Trained through Women’s Peace Education

Global Regional Director 2 Seo Yeon Lee was interviewed online by Ethiopia Addis TV on July 1. The interview was led by Hikma Temam and mainly focused on introducing IWPG’s work in Ethiopia to build a world of peace without war. 
In her interview, Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee said, “IWPG does a lot of peace projects in order to build peace through women, and through these projects, many women are developing into peace leaders with a strong mindset. Through Women’s Peace Education, IWPG is establishing Peace Committees in all regions nationwide to raise awareness of peace. These active Peace Committees will be developed into IWPG branches of the region to establish a culture of peace in the area. 
When asked “Why women?” Regional Director Lee said, “It is a human instinct to protect their children from life threats and maintain peace. This is why we must listen to the voices of women. War leaves permanent scars on women and children. Even at this moment, some children are unable to imagine a life without war.”
The full interview of Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee’s interview with Addis TV can be viewed on Youtube.
* Interview video link: https://youtu.be/iypU23mhDbE

MOA Signing for Peace Projects

Global Region 2 Signs MOA with Women of the Sun

On the 11th, IWPG Global Region 2 (Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee) held the MOA Signing Ceremony with Women of the Sun (Representative Reem Al Hajajreh) online. Women of the Sun is an organization established for the purpose of empowering Palestinian women and increasing female participation and peace work.

Through this MOA, the two organizations agreed to build an IWPG peace network in the Palestine community and spread a culture of peace through advocacy of the Declaration of the Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) and Peace Lecturer Training Education (PLTE). Going forward, IWPG and Woman of the Sun will closely cooperate based on their partnership.

Global Region 2 Signs MOA with House of Hope Vision School in Palestine

On the 11th IWPG Global Region 2 (Regional Director Seo Yeon Lee) signed an MOA with House of Hope Vision School (Co-founder Manar Wahhab Vosgueritchian). House of Hope Vision is an organization that focuses on facilitating a sense of community within Palestine and developing various programs to solve emotional problems, including contributing to women empowerment and improving welfare for women and youth. 
Through this MOA, House of Hope Vision School promised to cooperate with IWPG by supporting the DPCW, conducting PLTE, building an IWPG peace network within the community, and spreading a culture of peace by introducing new organizations.

Global Region 11 Signs MOA with Aruka Fiji

IWPG Global Region 11 (Regional Director Seon Hee Jang) signed an MOA with Aruka Fiji (Director Ratu Inoke Raiwalui Drauna) online on June 20. Aruka Fiji is an NGO that looks after homeless children and people on the streets, demonstrating love for one’s neighbors. 
The Director of Aruka Fiji, Ratu Inoke Raiwalui Drauna, and staff members from IWPG Nowon Branch participated in the MOA Signing Ceremony.

This Month`s Interview

Ootawara Masako 

Japan

Peace Committee Representative, IWPG Tokyo Branch

Tea Master

1. Please introduce yourself.

I am Ootawara Masako, a Peace Committee Representative of IWPG Tokyo Branch.
As a tea master, I have given classes in various areas. I was once invited by the Russian Embassy to promote Japanese culture. I am currently a special instructor of Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education,  teaching tea at various schools and institutions. I have also received various awards for participating in numerous community activities, such as Soup Kitchen volunteer activities for senior citizens or animal protection projects.  

2. What is IWPG’s most impressive activity or event?

There is a traditional Japanese dance called Bon Odori(盆踊り)’ . Based on this, IWPG members came together to make Peace Ondo(平和音頭)’* with their own hands. The song was written by IWPG member Okayas, the lyrics by IWPG Tokyo Branch Manager Ohki,  and the choreography by IWPG member Oikawa. This Heiwa Ondo was performed during the Commemoration Ceremony of April 26 International Women’s Peace Day. So the event was very meaningful and touching. I look forward to more abundant peace events in Japan where we can dance with people all around the world. 
*Peace Ondo(平和音頭)’*: A song of peace where many people can dance to together

The commemorative photo of the 4th Commemoration of Apr 26 International Women’s Peace Day.

In May, Japan also participated in the International Peace Walk by marching from Tokyo Station to Ginza. I want to spread this event so that everyone from 10 years old to 80 years old, and even other organizations all over the world come together as one to wish for peace.

3. What meaning does peace have in Japan, and how can we achieve it?

Japan is the only country in the world that has experienced a nuclear bomb. I beg all of you to visit Hiroshima Nagasaki for yourself to witness the atrocity of nuclear bombs. 
Huge cities, millions of people, and everything with life suddenly disappeared, and even those who managed to survive suffered from serious aftereffects for several years and eventually died from leukemia or incurable diseases. Now, 78 years later, President Putin of Russia is threatening the world to use nuclear weapons that are much more destructive than the one dropped on Japan. Now is the time for us to unite for peace and fight against war. The current international law fails to put an end to war. So we are in urgent need of a new international law that respects human rights and lives and puts a definitive end to war. 

Everyone in the earth is one family. We must understand this and stand hand-in-hand for peace. I will also work so that the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) is institutionalized and implemented as soon as possible. 

4. What are your plans and visions as a IWPG Tokyo Peace Committee Representative?

As I took peace education, I realized how ignorant I was. 
I realized our reality and understood that we have to continue to promote our peace activities to others and urge them to join us. And I also realized the peace education is very important.
Peace education that is opposite to war, invasion, and destruction! 
As a tea master, I will also continue to spread peace culture through culture networking so that more people understand the importance of peace through IWPG’s peace education. I will spread it all over Japan with the world.

Answer to eradicate war and achieve peace!

Signatures in Support of the ‘Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)’

DPCW 10 Articles 38 Clauses is a declaration to bring sustainable peace to the world by preventing conflict and enabling international supervisory institutions to play their role of mediating conflict.

What happens if I sign in support of the DPCW???‍♂?
The DPCW can be legislated as a binding international law through the UN. Consequently, war will disappear from the surface of the earth, and everyone will be able to enjoy a peaceful world, bringing peace to regions suffering from conflict and bloodshed.

How to support the DPCW?

Please click the button below!??

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