The actress Reekita Nondine Shimu from Bangladesh shared the insights she gained through International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG)’s PLTE (Peace Leadership Training & Education) program and called for social change through women’s solidarity.

 

In remarks released through IWPG West Busan Branch on the 27th following her completion of the program, Reekita  said, “Throughout the process of working toward peace, I realized that I am never alone,” adding, “By connecting with women around the world who are taking positive action, I gained the confidence and courage to believe that real change can be achieved.”

 

She also stressed that women’s participation in leadership across politics and society as a whole must be expanded. She said, “Change from the top begins when women’s voices are reflected in policy,” adding, “There can be no true peace where fear and violence exist, and women’s safety and empowerment are the true starting point of a culture of peace.”

 

Reekita said the program became an opportunity for inner growth that went beyond the simple acquisition of knowledge. Speaking about her career as an actress, she added, “I want to take part in narratives that portray women not merely as victims, but as agents of peace who heal and sustain their communities.” She also plans to actively engage in international solidarity efforts that extend beyond acting to promote education, human rights, and cross-cultural understanding.

 

Reekita emphasized a “virtuous cycle of peace,” saying, “A peaceful world begins with a peaceful mind,” and stressing that the practice of inner peace at the individual level spreads outward to communities and society.

 

In particular, Reekita offered pointed recommendations for establishing lasting peace in her home country Bangladesh. She noted that “gender discrimination within the household often leads to violence,” and called for effective law enforcement to prevent such violence, as well as education from an early age that teaches respect and equality.

 

She also stressed that women’s participation in leadership roles across politics and society must be expanded. She said, “Change from the top begins when women’s voices are reflected in policy,” adding, “There can be no true peace where fear and violence exist, and women’s safety and empowerment are the true starting point for a culture of peace.”

 

PLTE is provided by IWPG, which is an NGO registered with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and a global women peace organization with branches in 121 countries worldwide. The organization is currently focusing on advocacy efforts to support the legalization of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), while also working to cultivate women around the world as peace leaders through women’s peace education.

 

Reekita Nondine Shimu ’s remarks are expected to help spread the value of peace through her public influence as an artist, while also drawing international attention to women’s human rights issues in developing countries.