War can mean a fight for survival for some, while for others it can become a business that generates enormous profits. The Tokyo Branch of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) held a gathering to explore the realities behind war and the arms trade through a film screening and reflect together on the meaning of peace.

On October 31, the Tokyo Branch held its October 2026 World Women’s Peace Network regular meeting. A total of 15 people attended the gathering, which was organized to strengthen connections among members and create opportunities for new exchanges and cooperation.

Participants watched *Shadow Deal: The Dark Side of the Arms Business*. The film sheds light on the realities surrounding war and the arms trade, prompting viewers to consider those who accumulate enormous wealth through conflict and the issues hidden behind these transactions.

After the screening, participants shared their impressions and thoughts from a humanities perspective. Reflecting on the realities of world leaders who have accumulated wealth through the business of war, they discussed the influence of money and power on armed conflict and what people need to understand in order to work toward peace.

One participant shared, “I knew that even when large sums of money were involved, exploitation could take place along the way. But seeing it directly in the film was even more shocking. It also made me realize that I need to understand more about the various situations unfolding around the world today.”

The gathering provided an opportunity to look beyond conflicts as distant events and examine the circumstances and structures behind them.

The Tokyo Branch also plans to continue building relationships and cooperation with local organizations. In particular, members exchanged views on a potential memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Matsuzaki, director of the NGO ‘Blue Star of Life’, and plan to arrange a follow-up meeting.

Watching a film together and exchanging different perspectives can broaden the way people understand war and serve as a starting point for reflecting on peace. The Tokyo Branch’s regular gathering offered members an opportunity to share their thoughts and explore possibilities for future cooperation.