Dr. Soon Ok Kang, Secretary-General of Global Peace Women delivers congratulatory remarks on behalf of GPW Chairwoman Dr. Jun Sook Moon

The 7th Annual “Living for the Sake of Others Awards” honoring the selfless service of Paraguayan women was hosted at the National Congress in Asuncion, Paraguay on April 28, 2015. This year, nine women who have served the Paraguayan people in various fields such as education and empowerment of indigenous populations, service and volunteerism, national leadership and culture and arts were recognized.

Dr. Soon Ok Kang, newly appointed Secretary-General of Global Peace Women delivered the following congratulatory message on behalf of Dr. Jun Sook Moon on the auspicious occasion.

Esteemed dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen,

Bienvenidos!   Thank you.

Being here always warms my heart.  Paraguay is a nation built on a strong foundation of faith and family.  I have been moved by the bright and enthusiastic spirit of your people and it is no surprise that Paraguay was rated the “Happiest nation in the World” three years in row.  You have opened your doors to my husband and I and welcomed us in as family. To us, Paraguay is our second home.

Welcome to the 7th Annual Global Peace Foundation “Living for the Sake of Others” Awards Ceremony being held here in the Bicameral Room of the National Congress in Asuncion, Paraguay. It is always such an honor to meet with such distinguished women leaders. You are my heroes! Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to take part in this significant event.

Front Row (left to right) : Recipients of the Living for the Sake of Others Awards – Gloria Concepción Criccione Pineda, Singer, Maria Juana Guainer de Carema, Town Mayor of Ybycuí, IX Paraguarí Department, Mirna Orrego Social Action Volunteer for indigenous communities of Carmelo Peralta Disctrict, Alto Paraguay, Feliciana Estela Acosta de Riquelme, President of the Lions Club, Asunción Kaaguy – Rory, Mari A Juana Guainer De Carema, Indigenous Guaraní Community, Department of Boquerón, Sister Amelia Fernández García, Religious Order of the Sacred Family of Burdeos, María Evangelista Troche Soler de Gallegos, President of the Town Women Network in Paraguay and Town Councilor to Asunción, Former Mayor of Asunción, María Dolores Galli de Florentín, President of the Santa Lucía Association, Maria Eliza G. de Samaniego, President of the Corazones Solidarios Foundation

Before I begin, I would like to recognize the hard work of the members, staff and supporters of GPW Paraguay. You have built a significant foundation over these past 7 years through the tradition of this special award. Without leaders like you GPW Paraguay could not have produced the many outstanding achievements that it has.

I would also like to give a very special recognition to my dear friends, Senator Lilian Samaniego and Governor Marlene Ocampos, both of whom have been members and supporters of the Global Peace family for many years and who truly exemplify the ideal of “Living for the Sake of Others?” Don’t you agree?

To the 9 exemplary women being awarded tonight – My heartfelt congratulations! Your untiring dedication to the people of Paraguay truly expresses the ideal of Living for the Sake of Others.

I know that Paraguay’s growing strength and bright future is built upon the efforts of the multitude of selfless women like yourselves working every day to realize true peace.

I am very moved by the story of Paraguay’s women, who played such an important role during the War of the Triple Alliance, fighting and sacrificing for their nation.

These hard-working women labored the land with their hands and with their bodies and gave birth to many loyal sons and daughters. But they did more than that to reconstruct this nation. These women who were wives and mothers and sisters took upon the task of educating the future of this nation, instilling in them the essential values of the importance of family, love for the nation, and perseverance in front of adversity.

I understand it was these women who rebuilt the culture, and maintained Paraguay’s proud identity, including its continued use of the Guaraní language. As mothers, wives, sisters, friends… this story truly shows the beautiful spirit that is rooted in your culture. It’s woman leaders like all of you here who are truly setting the precedent of living for the sake of others.

Four years ago, at the launch of Global Peace Women, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation said:

“The original nature and experience of women strengthen social activities and are essential to realizing the dream of establishing One Family under God.”

What are the aspects of the original nature of women that contribute to global peace?

Current research by numerous neuroscientists, psychologists, and sociologists support the conclusion that, in general, women have a greater capacity for empathy, compassion and the understanding of others’ hearts.

These qualities motivate women to aid in reconciliation and find resourceful, innovative ways to support the overall well-being of their families, the wider community and the world. These qualities foster the culture of living for the sake of others, which is essential to building world peace.

There are many examples of women who have transformed their communities and impacted our world. Their stories are a testament of women who have been driven by their original heart to seek global peace. If these virtues can be established as a public ethic in contemporary society, we can build beautiful, healthy communities and find creative new approaches to the many critical issues that remain unresolved.

A packed Bicameral Hall at Paraguay’s National Congress Building honor nine outstanding women.

Where does the original nature and experience of women most support the building of world peace?

It is in the family. We know that the family is the fundamental social unit and encapsulates the most intimate bonds of the human experience. Global peace will be built in expanding stages upon healthy, peaceful families.

The family is where we learn the most concrete lessons about living for the sake of others. Within the healthy family, most important is what is learned from the unconditional love of the mother.  A mother’s empathy and intuition toward her husband and children are the most important elements of family cohesion. They help sustain physical and mental health. The mother nurtures and educates her children to build trust among themselves, find meaning in life, develop good character, experience being loved and learning to give love in return.

Healthy, vibrant families prepare individuals to become productive and responsible members of society. All the fundamental relationships exist within the family: mother and father, husband and wife, brother and sister, sons and daughters, and the extended family. These relationships teach us how to relate to our diverse human family.

That is why Global Peace Women’s first task is to uplift the inherent qualities and true value of women, and empower them in their important role in the family to advance the vision of One Family under God. Global Peace Women recently introduced its motto, “Peace begins in the home.” We believe that a peaceful world first begins with building peaceful homes, and recognize that women are the driving force in that endeavor.

Events such as today’s award ceremony, affirm that the nation of Paraguay is making great strides to advance important goals such as: empowering women to proactively transform themselves and their families; fostering healthy and happy families; articulating the innate value of femininity; recognizing the indispensable leadership of women in the family and society; networking with local and global women leaders; and spreading the culture of service.

The work of GPW Paraguay has been impressive. Last year alone, the international women’s plenary held during the Global Peace Convention here in Asuncion, convened over 1,000 women from around the region. In addition, throughout the year, GPW Paraguay hosted numerous workshops and forums, and supported multiple different social service projects. GPW Paraguay has distinguished itself and I hope you continue to set new precedents for future chapters.

Your efforts are opening new pathways that can inspire women around the world. Through connecting our international efforts with your local efforts, we can generate more creative and impactful programs and activities to improve the lives of our families, communities and world.

We have witnessed the capability and nobility of Paraguayan women, and are honored to recognize nine of you tonight for giving your hearts to secure this nation’s bright future.

Ladies and gentlemen, our world needs our continued commitment and effort, but most importantly, it needs our love. I hope that we can join together in advancing this noble cause to build One Family under God.

Muchas gracias y felicitaciones.

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The Global Peace Foundation was founded by Dr. Hyun Jin Moon to promote a compelling vision of peace based on universal principles and values shared by all the world’s great religious and cultural traditions. The Global Peace Foundation and its ever expanding network of leaders and partners are advancing global efforts to develop a new paradigm for peace based on the vision of one family under God.

As Global Peace Foundation International President, Jim Flynn wrote in his New Year’s Message,  in light of today’s challenges, “a vision that points toward a shared future based on our common humanity…is more compelling and relevant than ever before.”

2014 set many milestones for the Global Peace Foundation as outlined in President Flynn’s New Year’s Message. Thank you to the partners and supporters of the Global Peace Foundation. May 2015 be full of more significant advances to peace.

Below is the full letter published originally on globalpeace.org

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I wanted to write to you as we open this new year of 2015 and pray for success in all your endeavors in the coming year.

As we reflect on events of 2014, it seems that the challenges facing our diverse and disparate global community grow ever more daunting. Yet such challenges also push us to find the deeper basis of our interconnectedness.  Thus, today, a vision that points toward a shared future based on our common humanity – as expressed in the simple yet profound phrase “one family under God” – is more compelling and relevant than ever before.

Like you I am profoundly disturbed by polarizing divisions that can diminish our confidence in a future of peace and shared prosperity. Extremists distort religious precepts to justify unspeakable acts of inhumanity against innocent people. Political passions have boiled over, leaving little capacity or incentive for partisans to bridge divisions for the common good. The Ebola epidemic has again underscored the special vulnerability of Africa and the disproportionate burden of suffering that Africans have borne in modern times.

Interfaith leaders from Nigeria and Ireland discuss best-practices of cross-community engagement.

Yet in the midst of such dire problems is also hope, found in the legions of men and women everywhere whose lives manifest the noble qualities of the human spirit.  They are people of integrity on every continent, in every culture and faith tradition, who live for the greater good and strive to uplift the dignity of all.  They are found among us, and among our friends and colleagues; though they may speak different languages, they share a passion for peace and resonate with the essential perspective that we all belong to the one human family with a common spiritual heritage.

The examples are many. This past year I was honored to join Nigerian Muslim and Christian leaders who came to Northern Ireland to examine the lessons learned in ending 30 years of armed conflict between Catholic and Protestant factions, and to confer on building social cohesion during a time of turmoil and violence in Nigeria.

Governor Marlene Ocampos receives the Global Peace Award during the Global Peace Convention 2014.

Through our Global Peace Leadership Conference in New Delhi last year, we saw a moving example of India’s diverse faith leaders coming together on the deepest levels, affirming that “Truth is one, although the wise call it by many names.” At our 2014 Convention in Paraguay, we met champions of national transformation like GPF’s social impact coordinator, Marlene Ocampos, who won the governorship of Alto Paraguay, the country’s poorest state, based on her record of service to the people and commitment to utilize the instruments of government solely in the public interest.

And I was deeply encouraged by the promise of a rising generation when I addressed young professionals on the importance of moral and innovative leadership at the International Young Leaders Assembly at the United Nations in New York.

Young leaders at the International Youth Leaders Assembly at the United Nations.

Our work to promote universal shared values as the foundation for peace, to cultivate healthy families and communities that nurture positive qualities of character, and to advance a culture of service, is still young. But it is vigorous and growing, and drawing new energy and inspiration from you, our partners and stakeholders.

This new year will no doubt bring us both expected and unexpected challenges. But we are certainly gaining ground, despite the potent forces that foment hatred and division, especially as we work together with shared vision and common purpose to uplift the entire human family.

We greatly appreciate your endeavors and contributions for the noble cause for peace. We look forward to a new year filled with renewed commitment, redoubled efforts and productive collaboration as we continue our work together.

Best wishes to you and your family for a peaceful and prosperous new year.

Sincerely,

James P. Flynn
International President
Global Peace Foundation

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The following is the address delivered by Dr. Jun Sook Moon, Chairwoman of Global Peace Women, in front of 1,000 women leaders form across Latin America who convened for a special women’s plenary during the Global Peace Convention 2014. “Peace beings in the home” she told the women, uplifting the unique and sacred role of women in the family as mothers, wives, sisters and daughters.

Venue: Bourbon Conmebol Assunção Convention Hotel

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Good Morning, ladies and the few gentlemen – Thank you so much for coming here to this event, the women’s session. And I’m especially delighted to see also the gentlemen also attending this session. Can I see a raise of hands for the men gathering here this morning? Gentlemen? Thank you very much. We women always feel so much more energy when we feel like the men are there to support us. So thank you very much. I am honored to be among such beautiful and accomplished women from around the world. [Repeated in Spanish] Each time my husband and I come here to Paraguay we truly feel that we have come back to our second home.

To all the leaders here from our host nation Paraguay and from across the Latin American region, “Buenos dias y bienvenidos!” And to all our distinguished leaders from around the world, welcome to Paraguay and the 2014 Global Peace Convention.

I would like to especially recognize the former President of Costa Rica, Her Excellency Laura Chinchilla. We also have together with us, the Honorable Senator Lilian Samaniego and Dr. Haehoon Lee, the former Congresswoman of the Republic of Korea.

I would also like to recognize Governor Marlene Ocampos of Alto Paraguay, the government ministers of Paraguay, and Ana Maria Ortiz, President of the Association of Businesswomen of Paraguay, who have joined us today.

Please warmly welcome from Europe, Dr. Eva Latham, where is she? She’s the President of Human Rights Teaching International.

From the United States, Collete Caprara, editor on family issues at the Heritage Foundation, Ms. Diann Dawson, president and CEO of DDA & Associates, and Donna Schuller, where are you? She’s from our Global Peace Women advisory board. Thank you so much for coming this morning.

I would like to especially appreciate the directors of Area Mujer for all the work they are doing here in Paraguay and for hosting this great program today. The theme of this convention is, “Roadmap for National Transformation” and here in this women’s session we are discussing the theme “National Transformation – Women’s Leadership and Contributions toward Social Models That Promote Development and Wellness for All.” This topic is very close to my heart because I believe women play a critical role in the process of national transformation.

What do we mean when we speak of national transformation? What type of nations do we aspire to build? History teaches us that the strongest nations with the longest and lasting experience of peace were those built upon spiritual principles and values that gave them a higher sense of purpose to serve a greater good. We have examples from as far back as the Pax Mongolia that grew out of the Mongol empire’s aspiration to create One World under One Heaven and encouraged exchange amongst the cultures, faiths, and regions of the empire. A more recent example is the United States, the oldest and most stable democratic society, built upon the dream of forming One Nation under God. In such a nation, people of every race and land could come to enjoy equal rights and freedom of worship.

What we learn from these examples is that vibrant and enduring nations need a guiding vision and a foundation of spiritual principles and values. How is such a nation formed? It is through the moral virtues of the nation’s citizens, who embody these spiritual principles and values in their lives.

Left to right: H.E. Laura Chincilla, former president of Costa Rica, Dr. Jun Sook Moon, Chairwoman of Global Peace Women, Hon. Lilian Samaniego, national senator of Paraguay.

Where do people learn these principles and values? Where do they become the “habits of the heart” of a people, where acting morally becomes as natural as breathing. I believe it is in the home and in the family. Strong nations must be built upon strong, healthy families. This makes the central role every mother plays in her family an essential component of national transformation. That is why my husband and I recently coined the Global Peace Women motto, “Peace Starts with the Home.” Can we all say that with me? “Peace Starts with the Home,” thank you.

In the home, peace is more than a concept or an ideal. It is visible, it is substantial, and can be felt emotionally, physically, spiritually. As such, it becomes a lived daily reality.

A child experiences love and learns the value of life through the unconditional embrace and untiring investment of a mother from the moment of their birth. A mother plants the seed of a lifestyle of self-sacrifice, and living for others by her example, as she teaches the child to share with siblings, and think about the happiness of the family as a whole. Most of all, through exemplifying spiritual principles and values, parents form the roots of faith, love for God, and for their fellow human beings in their children.

The extended family model is especially suited to nurture virtuous men and women who can lay the foundations for a culture of peace in their nations and, ultimately, the world. In an extended family, a child grows up surrounded by the richness of diverse relationships with so many different relatives. Through them they learn how to respect and honor elders while cherishing and investing in those younger than them. This is the basis of the social norms to be practiced in the wider society. Through the multitude of family interactions, a person naturally experiences the benefits of teamwork, cooperation, and harmony. Moreover, they learn how to resolve conflicts, forgive, and truly live in peace. The extended family prepares a person to relate to the diversity of the human family and live for the benefit of the whole. A beautiful example of this extended family can be found right here in a Paraguayan home. I heard that every Sunday, in a Paraguayan home, families gather around with their parents and they share asado, and talk about soccer, and have a beautiful meeting every Sunday. I think it’s such a beautiful tradition you have in Paraguay.

The inescapable conclusion is that the family is not just a private realm, set apart from the broader society but rather is an essential element of national transformation. This is what Global Peace Women champions. We must uplift the contribution of women in national transformation and emphasize the role of families, especially mothers, in forming the foundation of an ethical, prosperous society.

Once we understand that principles and values are preserved and passed on within families, then it is natural that a nation aspiring to model such principles and values should create policies and infrastructure to strengthen the family. Communities, schools, businesses, and governments, both local and national, should invest in programs that support the family unit and find innovative ways to empower the family and encourage the work of raising ethical, global citizens. This could come in the form of couple counseling benefits or parenting support programs that tackle the issues that have led to the family decline we are experiencing in so many countries today. Micro-financing initiatives like the Grameen Bank or Kiva could provide much-needed financial support to launch a family business and incentivize active participation, especially of women, in a growing economy. Failure to invest in the family is the same as doing nothing to prevent family breakdown and the high social costs that come with it. We are all too aware of the growing global trend of divorce, out-of-wedlock births, and the loss of moral standards of our youth.

Let us put our hearts and minds together to find ways to counter that global trend and protect and uplift the sanctity of family and the essential role of women in the home first and foremost, and as an extension the important contributions women make in the greater community, nation, and in our world today. I feel there is no better place to have this women’s conference than here in Paraguay. I know how active the women of GPF have been in Paraguay, supporting educational initiatives, and forums on good governance and leadership. They have also provided access to medical and dental health, food and clothing, and education and jobs to the most remote villages. This nation has great women leaders who have championed the fight against corruption and engaged government ministries in providing services to the poorest and most remote regions of Paraguay.

Here in the heart of Latin America, or as my husband calls it, the “womb” of Latin America, I believe that our work as women, through the models it creates, will bring about a sweeping spiritual awakening here in Paraguay, in Latin America, and throughout the hemisphere.

Ladies and Gentlemen, “La Paz Comienza desde el Hogar.” “Peace Begins with the Home.” Muchas gracias. May God bless you, thank you very much.

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The following is the full transcript of the speech delivered by Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, chairman of the Global Peace Foundation at its annual convention, held at the Bourbon Conmebol Assunção Convention Hotel.

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“A Roadmap for National Transformation: Liberty, Prosperity and Integrity through Moral and Innovative Leadership”

Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen:

Dr. Hun Jin Moon at the Global Peace Convention 2014, “Roadmap for National Transformation.”

It is my great honor to welcome you to the Sixth Annual Global Peace Convention here in Asuncion, Paraguay. This Convention is bringing together leaders from more than 40 nations, and all sectors of society, including politicians and government officials, religious and business leaders, educators and civil society leaders, united by a common vision for peace and prosperity, and ready to work together to achieve it.

I want to give special thanks to our host H.E. President Horacio Cartes for his warm welcome to Paraguay. Could we express our thanks to him?

And I would also like to recognize the Vice-president of Paraguay, Juan Afara who is with us here today. Could we please offer a round of applause?

To President Juan Carlos Wasmosy, President Vincio Cerezo, President Luis Alberto Lacalle and the members of the Latin American Presidential Mission here today, could they please stand to be recognized?

We owe much of the success of this convention and GPF’s work in Paraguay to Senator Lilian Samaniego of our Global Leadership Council. May we thank her?

And of course we also want to thank our distinguished local host, the Mayor of Asuncion, Arnaldo Samaniego, for bringing us to this beautiful green and vibrant city known as the “mother of cities.”

We would also like to appreciate the many significant faith leaders with us today, including:

• My good friends Bishop Manoel Ferreira and Congressman Nelson Marquezelli of Brazil;
• Dr. Marsudi Syuhud, Secretary General of Nahdlatul Ulama of Indonesia; and
• Dr. Robert and Donna Schuller from the United States.

And a special thanks to all of the distinguished GPF Global Leadership Council members in attendance from throughout the world.

We are drawn together here inspired by the vision of One Family under God, and the hope, that as we find more ways to act upon it, we can heal the divisions that separate humanity and make peace a global reality.

(Left to right) Vice President of Paraguay, H.E. Juan Afara, President of Paraguay, H.E. Horacio Cartes, Founder of Global Peace Foundation, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, National Senator of Paraguay, Hon. Lilian Samaniego.

The theme of this year’s convention is “Roadmap for National Transformation: Liberty, Prosperity and Integrity through Moral and Innovative Leadership.” This theme focuses on the type of change within nations that is needed to move towards world peace. It is particularly fitting for a convention held in Paraguay, which is part of the “Global South,” the world of emerging nations seeking to grow and find their place in the global economy and the community of nations.

This theme focuses on the type of change within nations that is needed to move towards world peace. It is particularly fitting for a convention held in Paraguay, which is part of the “Global South,” the world of emerging nations seeking to grow and find their place in the global economy and the community of nations.

When the Cold War ended, so too did the old world order based on ideological division. A new world order has yet to be established, and emerging nations will play an increasingly important role in shaping how it looks, for better or worse. With the Cold War geopolitical order gone, the world has experienced increasing fragmentation along tribal, ethnic, sectarian, and religious lines.

This has produced violent identity-based conflicts across the developing world, — in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia. Here in Latin America the legacy of Iberian feudalism still fuels social conflicts based on disparities of wealth and opportunity. The old struggle of communism and capitalism still endures at a social level in this region, producing opposing visions for the path to prosperity.

Many emerging nations today are experiencing significant economic growth and greater democratization. Yet they also face many challenges. In addition to the instability arising from identity-based conflict, there is inequitable development that fails to benefit the people as a whole, and government tainted by corruption. How these challenges are met will have great significance for global peace and prosperity. The nations of the southern hemisphere hold the key to the future.

In addition, most of the emerging world has large youth populations. This is in marked contrast to the developed world with its aging populations, low birthrates, and dissolving families. The energy of the young represents a great opportunity for the growing economies of the developing world.

Yet those energies need to be properly harnessed and that is the challenge. It calls for education both in productive skills and in moral and civic virtues. That, in turn, requires tackling poverty and its cultural impact. The negative behaviors that poverty produces undermine social stability and thus impede progress toward equitable and sustainable prosperity.

The energy of the young represents a great opportunity for the growing economies of the developing world. Yet those energies need to be properly harnessed and that is the challenge.

How to achieve prosperity without sacrificing traditional values is another major challenge for countries in the southern hemisphere. Observing the breakdown of families and its social impact in the so-called advanced nations, and in the wake of the global financial crisis of 2008, many countries are looking for alternatives to the Western development model. They are looking for new models of national transformation that can stimulate economic development and material prosperity without having to compromise spiritual and moral traditions or their roots in strong family values.

If these countries successfully meet their challenges they will create the foundation for a peaceful new world order. That is why it is vitally important to understand what it takes to bring about national transformation.

This region has a tremendous opportunity to bring about a rebirth of Latin America. It is particularly encouraging to see so many former heads of state gathered here for the 2nd Summit of the Latin American Presidential Mission. They are dedicated to applying their experience to lift up their region.

To achieve this, Latin American society has to become more inclusive. Positive social transformation leads to political and legal change that then leads to sustainable economic development. In the feudal system that Latin America adapted from Spanish and Portuguese colonizers, a serf had no ownership, few rights, and, as a result, little opportunity or incentive.

Fourteen heads of state, the current president of Paraguay at the Second Summit of the Latin American Presidential Mission.

This was in contrast to the cultural traditions of North America that grew out of the English common law and encouraged independence, enterprise, and self-reliance among an ever-growing segment of society.

These differences grew out of fundamental principles and values that upheld human rights and freedoms and sought to extend them to all people. Basic liberties created social opportunity. Hard work was rewarded, enterprise encouraged, and an engaged citizenry expanded. Prosperity was the fruit of the resulting culture.

For much of its history Latin America has had oligarchic societies that excluded the majority of the population from prosperity, and political influence and engagement. Lacking these opportunities, opposition often took radical forms. Today, social disparity remains a challenge that the region has to meet.

To prosper, Latin America needs a broad, well-established middle class, engaged in the economic and political life of their countries. That requires good education and opportunity for all citizens. As these social issues are addressed, the political and legal framework can change, creating greater stability through the rule of law and the protection of property rights. At the root of these changes are the principles and values that uphold the rights and freedoms of every citizen and lead to the creation of a society where they can be exercised.

This opens the door to economic development and prosperity, particularly as it makes a country attractive for foreign investment. A country that leads the way in this process can become a hub nation for its region and a model for the world.

Peace and prosperity cannot be secured in this world without nations that exemplify integrity, good governance, and responsibility. Our host nation, Paraguay offers an instructive example of how national transformation can begin.

Peace and prosperity cannot be secured in this world without nations that exemplify integrity, good governance, and responsibility.

Since my first visit here in 2008, Paraguay has made great strides forward. Back then, the U.S. State Department was advising Americans not to travel to the country because of security concerns. Also, the Paraguayan government was planning to expropriate foreign owned private property. Yet at the same time, Paraguay’s leaders wanted the country to develop and become part of the global economy.

Paraguay could never prosper as part of the global economy if it did not respect the rule of law, and property rights as part of that rule. No foreign government or organization would invest in a country where their enterprise was not protected by the law. The president and other leaders at the time whom I spoke with, understood the force of this argument. They made a historic choice that set Paraguay on a path to becoming a well-functioning democracy.

Where might this path lead? My experience here convinces me of Paraguay’s great potential. With the right foundation of principles and values, Paraguay can become a prosperous and peaceful modern democracy that respects the rights and freedoms of its people, and promotes a successful free market economy that unleashes their creativity.

Such a transformed Paraguay, at the center of South America, can be like a womb for the rebirth of the region from which a genuine prosperity, and the principles and values that underpin it, can spread throughout Latin America, and across the developing world. I have shared this vision consistently with the leaders of Paraguay in government, business and civil society.

Over one thousand representatives of 40 countries around the world at the Global Peace Convention 2014.

In the past six years much has changed in this country as efforts have grown to move from vision to social transformation. I am proud to say that the Global Peace Foundation has been among those at the forefront of that endeavor. In 2010 we established IDPPS, a research institute, to develop a roadmap for the future of the nation. Its members are prominent and respected figures known for their integrity. They come from the ranks of government, business, the Central Bank, Supreme Court, and the military.

That same year GPF and the Institute held a conference in Asuncion for Paraguayan leaders from both the public and private sectors that attracted several former heads of state from the greater Latin American region. Their presence became the seed of the Latin American Presidential Mission, established at the Global Peace Convention in Atlanta in 2012.

The conference produced the “Asuncion Declaration,” a comprehensive statement of principles that affirmed the desire of Latin American leaders “to work beyond religious, political, social, and ethnic differences for the unity of Latin America.” That affirmation was reiterated by several of the former presidents the following year in the “Brasilia Declaration.”

The Declaration outlined the need to “revive the civic values and virtues that reflect the better spiritual, democratic, and plural traditions of humanity in this continent,” and to “promote education in ethical principles and universal values that can empower children and young adults to become better human beings and good citizens.”

These principles are being implemented through the work of the Institute and GPF’s national chapter here in Paraguay and by the Latin American Presidential Mission across the wider region.

The Institute has contributed to the creation of sound and consistent public policy based on mobilizing public and private partnerships, particularly through its work on a development model for the vast, poverty-stricken Chaco region. Meanwhile, GPF has been promoting greater social stability in the country through forums on the core principles essential for good governance and a wide range of social initiatives.

These include character education in the nation’s schools, launched in cooperation with the Ministry of Education; youth volunteerism; and an energetic and enterprising women’s division that does pioneering work to advance the role and dignity of women and affirm the fundamental importance of the family in transmitting values.

The Latin American Presidential Mission is working throughout the region to strengthen relations between North, Central and South America and the Caribbean as well as promoting a hemispheric spiritual awakening centered on the universal principles and values that uphold vibrant, well-functioning democracies. It is also promoting broad educational initiatives focused on moral and civic development and contributing ideas on issues such as trade and investment, income disparity, and how to combat organized crime.

In Alto Paraguay, GPF has been active since 2009 in the main town of Puerto Casado, providing basic assistance in health, education, and housing. Later GPF established sustainable projects including a fish farm, communal vegetable farm, and bakery to help the community support itself.. Last year, Marlene Ocampos, who had guided these projects as GPF social director in the state, ran for governor of Alto Paraguay.

Against expectations, and on the strength of her work for the people of the state, she won the election. As governor, she has continued to lead with the same spirit of service. The Institute has supported her work with its expertise, establishing efficient and transparent systems of government that help to root out corruption.

The example of Alto Paraguay is causing a stir in Paraguay today. There are entrenched special interests that are threatened by the changes underway there. But those with a greater vision see in it a model for other states to imitate. During my last visit here one governor asked me for GPF’s help to implement in his state what had been done in Alto Paraguay.

As fundamental principles are put into practice through political and social initiatives, the stability of the country grows, making it more attractive to international investors. Investment will allow Paraguay to build its infrastructure and become a hub nation for all of Latin America.

I foresee a future in which Paraguay becomes for Latin America what Singapore is for Southeast Asia or Dubai for the Middle East.

As the Latin American region experiences a rebirth it will naturally look west to build trade relations with Asian countries, as part of the emerging Asia-Pacific era. Even though Paraguay is a landlocked nation, it needs to be part of this process to become fully engaged in the global economy.

In this regard, I believe that Korea and Paraguay make natural partners, complementing one another. Korea is technologically advanced but resource poor. It also needs new markets. Paraguay is resource rich but can benefit from Korea’s experience of development to advance its own economy.

I foresee a future in which Paraguay becomes for Latin America what Singapore is for Southeast Asia or Dubai for the Middle East.

Last June I helped bring a group of infrastructure experts and bankers from Korea to meet Paraguayan officials and discuss development plans. A start has already been made. Korea’s Il Sung Construction company started work on a road project here last June. Hyundai has already established a factory here creating needed jobs while KOICA, Korea’s overseas development agency, has been active with feasibility studies for infrastructure projects.

I have spoken with some detail about what has been taking place in Paraguay. The reason is that Paraguay offers a model of how national transformation can come about. It shows the foundational importance of principles and values, and their translation into initiatives that promote social transformation, leading to greater political and social stability. This in turn opens the door for sustainable economic development. As a result it has global implications.

Fourteen former presidents, joined by the current president and vice-president of Paraguay, members of the think-tank IDPPS and the Global Peace Foundation.

If nations and regions are transformed in this way, the future peace of the world will be assured. The principles and values at the heart of this model uphold human rights and freedoms; encourage the enterprise and creativity that produce prosperity and a sense of worth; and promote the ideal of working for the greater good.

The Global Peace Foundation, in cooperation with partners such as yourselves, is working in fifteen nations across the world to lay the foundations for national and regional transformation. Interfaith leadership is crucial for resolving sectarian conflict and establishing a consensus of values. I want to recognize the work in Nigeria where Christian and Muslim leaders are working together in states like Kaduna to resolve sectarian tensions. They have launched a “One Family under God” grassroots movement to bring their Christian and Muslim followers together in peace.

The idea that all people are members of One Family under God lies at the heart of the principles and values of which I speak. This simple yet profound vision transcends every ethnic and sectarian divide. As such, it has the power to lift us from national transformation to regional transformation, upward to achieve global transformation and a peaceful world.

The idea that all people are members of One Family under God lies at the heart of the principles and values of which I speak. This simple yet profound vision transcends every ethnic and sectarian divide. As such, it has the power to lift us from national transformation to regional transformation, upward to achieve global transformation and a peaceful world.

The power of the vision to connect regions in innovative ways was demonstrated recently when a group of Nigerian religious leaders traveled to Northern Ireland to share their experiences with community leaders in Belfast working to bridge the Catholic-Protestant divide.

I also want to acknowledge the important work of our partner in Indonesia, Nadhlatul Ulama, a major Muslim civic organization working tirelessly to refute extremist distortions of Islam, and to promote tolerance among all people.

In Korea, my recently published book, “The Korean Dream,” articulates a vision for a united Korea based on the principles and values that have guided Korean history for millennia. It lays out a model for people to act on those principles through civic associations to unite their country. This appeal to root principles and values is paralleled here in the Americas by the call for a Great Hemispheric Awakening to revive the spiritual foundations of the nations of North and South America.

Our world today is gravely threatened by identity-based conflicts, driven by the divisions I have mentioned. Violence and chaos reign in many parts of the world. It is our responsibility, through initiatives such as these, to show that a brighter alternative is possible. The vision of One Family under God can be the antidote to such identity-based conflicts, if we are determined to make it a reality through our commitment and creativity.

That is why models of national transformation are needed throughout the world. I trust you will become owners of this vision; that you will be the moral and innovative leaders who will implement it, bringing social transformation to your communities, societies, and nations.

I urge you to join with me and with one another to rise above the barriers that have separated us throughout history and secure for future generations a world of peace and prosperity for all.

Thank you and may God bless you and your families.

 

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This year’s Global Peace Convention will be hosted in Paraguay. The Global Peace Foundation recently published an article explaining the significance of Paraguay as the host of the upcoming convention themed ” “Roadmap for National Transformation: Liberty, Prosperity and Integrity through Moral and Innovative Leadership.”

Pantheon of the Heroes, Asuncion, Paraguay

An emerging democracy in the heart of South America, Paraguay is introducing transformational political and social reforms that reflect a renewed commitment to the principles, values and traditions of Latin America’s diverse peoples.

To most observers, Paraguay seems an unlikely prospect to lead a movement in Latin America toward effective governance, transparency and broad-based social reform. In the shadow of powerful Brazil and Argentina, Paraguay has long numbered among South America’s poorest and most unequal nations.

About the size of Japan with a population of just 6.5 million, Paraguay shares with much of Latin America a troubled history of authoritarian rule, rampant corruption and extreme wealth disparity. Repression reached its nadir during the 35-year regime of Gen. Alfredo Stroessner (1954-1989), one of the longest-ruling dictators of the twentieth century, until his ouster in a military coup.

Free elections in May 1993 marked a turning point, but independent assessments by Transparency International and other watchdogs caution that major reforms must be implemented to ensure civil liberties, equitable economic development, and independence of the judiciary.

Thus it appeared in 2007 when Global Peace Foundation (GPF) founder Dr. Hyun Jin P. Moon first visited the country and addressed the National Congress on the need for ethics and values to inform the political process.

The Global Peace Foundation hosted city-wide social impact projects in Asunción (above) prior to the Global Peace Festival, which drew some 30,000 young people to celebrate Paraguay’s cultural heritage.

Impressed by the receptivity of his message among the broad spectrum of national leaders, Dr. Moon decided to organize a Global Peace Festival in Paraguay, the first of many that would become a signature peace initiative of GPF.

“The idea was to celebrate a culture of heart and service,” says Thomas Field, the festival co-chair, GPF Paraguay founding director, and current GPF Latin America regional director. “This was a chance for young people to see their country, their culture, in a different, more optimistic light and uphold values of faith and family that are important to the Paraguayan people.”

To lead up to the festival GPF organized city-wide social impact projects for two months. On July 3, 2008 several thousand school-children from 70 city schools joined a city-wide service and beautification project co-sponsored by the City of Asunción, the first of its kind in the country.

The festival on July 5 drew some 30,000 young people and was remarkable in planting a vision of a truly inclusive, ethical and harmonious society. “Before we are Paraguayans, or Americans, or Koreans; before we are Christian, Muslim or Jew, we must understand our fundamental identity as one family under God,” Dr. Moon said.

The way of the vaqueros

Prior to the festival the GPF chairman went on a tour of the Chaco, a vast, arid region that comprises all of northern Paraguay and extends into Argentina and Bolivia. Moved by the simplicity of life and depth of heart of the Chaco people, he determined to organize a cattle drive in the manner of traditional Chaco ranchers, and invited the sons and daughters of the top families in Paraguay.

“These are the future leaders of Paraguay,” he later said. “But they had never visited these poor regions. I deliberately got rid of the good tents, nice food and also the showering facilities. We ate and slept with the same schedules as the cowboys called vaqueros who run these cattle drives.

“About three days into the cattle drive, I gave my food and candy away to the women of a local village. The women who received food from usreciprocated by cooking two of the four chickens they were raising in their yard for us. Seeing these poor families give half the food they possessed moved all of us.

GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon emphasized the importance of shared valued values for national renewal in meetings with Paraguayan leaders. Dr. Moon meets here with Congressman Ariel Oviedo.

“It created a greater impact than any speech,” Moon continued. “During a Global Peace Leadership Conference that was held before the festival, I shared what had happened in this village to all the leaders of Paraguay. I said to them, if this is the true spirit of Paraguay, then Paraguay will become a great nation. The peace movement that I am carrying out is this kind of work.”

Following the festival, the Global Peace Foundation established its first national branch and began a systematic examination of the conditions and requirements to bring about genuine national transformation in Paraguay. Many such conditions were already in place.

•  Paraguay has one of the fastest growing economies in Latin America, rated third in growth in 2010 and in 2013, with 13 percent growth, the fastest growing economy in the world.
• Paraguay has had eight consecutive years of fiscal surpluses, allowing the country to decrease its public external debt from more than 50 percent of GDP to less than 10 percent.
•  Paraguay’s economy is well-diversified, with about 25 percent of its GDP coming from its industrial sector, 20 percent from agriculture and 60 percent from services. . Paraguay has the strongest monetary stability in Latin America, without sharp devaluations of currency or freezing of capital.
• After construction of the Itaipu Dam, among the world’s largest hydroelectric facilities and a joint project with Brazil, Paraguay has cheap and abundant electrical power and has become the largest electricity exporter in the world.
• Paraguay’s land is rich in natural resources, abundant minerals and raw materials essential for industry and energy, and major waterways for transporting goods from the interior.

GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon emphasized the importance of shared valued values for national renewal in meetings with Paraguayan leaders. Dr. Moon meets here with Congressman Ariel Oviedo. More important than resources and economic factors, however, was the need to build social consensus around essential principles and values that can be the foundation for political reform and national transformation.

The Global Peace Foundation established its first national branch and began a systematic examination of the conditions and requirements to bring about genuine national transformation in Paraguay.

Above: The Itaipu Dam, among the world’s largest hydroelectric facilities and a joint project with Brazil. Below: A farm in rural Paraguay. Paraguay is among the world’s largest exporters of soy beans and has abundant raw materials and waterways to facilitate development. (Photos Courtesy of Rachel Codas)

“Peace and prosperity cannot be secured in this world without nations that exemplify integrity, good governance, and responsibility, together with respect for the dignity of human beings, fundamental human rights, and the prosperity and the fundamental needs of all its peoples,” the GPF Chairman told a business forum in Asunción on June 17, 2014.

A roadmap for transformation

In 2008 the Global Peace Foundation initiated work on several fronts, including the expansion of character education in primary and secondary schools; the establishment of a women’s division—later to become Global Peace Women—to advance the role and dignity of women and affirm the fundamental importance of the family in transmitting values; and economic development and relief projects in Alto Paraguay, the poorest state in Paraguay.

Most significant, GPF founded a research foundation, the Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Sonada (IDPPS), with the express purpose of fashioning a roadmap for transforming Paraguay’s political institutions and establishing and upholding a social contract between the government, civil society institutions and the Paraguayan people.

“How do you make a new nation?” says Field. “You need founding fathers—a Jefferson, Washington, Adams, Hamilton—so we looked for those statesmen who are patriots, who are moral references, who could collaborate in the process of national transformation.”

Field first approached former Paraguay Supreme Court Justice Dr. José Altimirano, a jurist with a reputation for integrity. Recently retired, Altimirano called the meeting with Field “serendipity,” and he agreed to head the newly established Institute. Altimirano and Field then enlisted former ministers of education, agriculture, planning, and environment; a former president of the central bank; former chief of the armed forces, and other private and public sector leaders to collaborate on a blueprint for national development.

The founding charter defined the Institute’s members to be “the architects who establish the future society of Paraguay founded upon universally relevant ethical and moral principles and values” and to make “significant contributions to forming a great nation built upon healthy families, a thriving civil society characterized by good government, and an educational system with high levels of civic and social excellence.”

Asunción Declaration

Field says the idea of the Institute was the inspiration of the GPF chairman. “One of first things we did was organize an international conference, ‘Challenges, Threats and Opportunities for Development in Latin America,’ ” Field remembered. At the conclusion of the conference, participants ratified the Asunción Declaration, a milestone that affirmed the desire of Latin American leaders “to work–beyond religious, political, social, and ethnic differences for the unity of Latin America.”

The Declaration outlined the need to “revive the civic values and virtues that reflect the better spiritual, democratic, and plural traditions of humanity in this continent,” and “promote education in ethical principles and universal values that can empower children and young adults to become better human beings and good citizens.”

Then on May 6, 2011, the IDPPS organized a celebration of Paraguay’s bicentennial in Asunción at which 3 former presidents, 3 former vice presidents, the president of the Constitution Convention of 1992, 4 former presidents and current president of the National Congress, 6 former presidents of the Supreme Court, and other national leaders of modern Paraguay solemnly renewed their commitment to the democratic process.

This convening and a later 2011 assembly in Brazil’s National Congress in Brasilia affirmed the principles outlined in the Asunción Declaration and significantly provided a forum for former heads of state from throughout Latin America to put aside political differences to advance political reform, regional development, and broader hemispheric cooperation.

The Asunción Declaration affirmed the desire of Latin American leaders “to revive the civic values and virtues that reflect the better spiritual, democratic, and plural traditions of humanity.”

Left: Former Supreme Court Justice and President of the Paraguay Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Sonada Dr. José Altamirano addresses a business forum in Asunción; right: former presidents and other leaders of modern Paraguay commit to work beyond religious, political, social, and ethnic differences for the unity of Latin America at an IDPPS-sponsored bi-centennial celebration.

The IDPPS also made an agreement with key national leaders to work on a roadmap for the development of the Chaco, including research and analysis of all projects for the last 20 years as well as weather, soil, and other topographical data.

From 2009 GPF had been active in the town of Puerto Casado, the largest community and capital of Alto Paraguay, providing basic assistance in health, education, and housing, later establishing sustainable projects including a fish farm, communal vegetable farm, and bakery. Residents of the town thus got jobs in rotation and a basic income, important following the closing of a tannery that sustained the town previously.

“If it weren’t for the projects initiated by GPF it would have been the end of Puerto Casado,” says Alto Paraguay Governor Marlene Ocampos, the country’s only female governor. “Thanks to those efforts the town can breathe again. GPF came to give food to the people who had nothing to eat. GPF went to schools and gave opportunity to study all the way to university. In terms of health care it did a lot of work, and even helped to bury the dead.”

IDPPS also assisted local officials in Puerto Casado to establish an efficient and accountable administration that directed the support received from the national government to the benefit of the community, rather than into the pockets of local politicians and businessmen.

 Political shockwaves

Above: GPF provides emergency relief in the Chaco following the flooding in 2013. GPF has supported health, education, and housing, as well as sustainable projects that provide a livelihood for residents. Below: GPF supports character education as part of a comprehensive approach to national renewal.

Alto Paraguay, the largest, poorest, least-populated and arguably most corrupt of Paraguay’s departments, or states. A native of Puerto Casado, Ocampos has spent 20 years as a government health worker, visiting families, coordinating medical evacuations and assisting in disaster relief in a nearly inaccessible region with no paved roads and limited electrical power. Ocampos later coordinated GPF’s social projects in the state that sought to empower local people with sustainable livlihoods.

Her integrity, compassion and competency in delivering essential aid won the trust and affection of the largely indigenous Guarani people, who encouraged her to campaign for governor.

“It was never in my plan to run for governor,” Ocampos says. “People would say the government was full of corruption and had the hope that maybe I would run for governor. I was very afraid, but for me it was a just cause.”

Against the odds of a political machinery that operated by bribes, graft, intimidation and, in her case, threats against her life, Ocampos won the governorship in August 2013—a watershed event in Paraguayan politics. Although she had no experience of running a state administration, she drew upon the expertise of IDPPS, who helped her set up efficient and transparent administration.
Ocampos’ election created shockwaves throughout the country and set a precedent for a new paradigm of leadership that rejected the exploitation of public office for personal gain. Former Congressman and Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies Dr. Bernardino Cano Radil said that the reforms in Alto Paraguay had caused a “crack” in how things have worked in Paraguayan politics.
Field agrees. “Marlene Ocampos has done more in the first 10 months than others have done in 10 years, or ever. Working with IDPPS, the department set a goal of zero corruption in public administration. And I can say right now with confidence she has attained that goal. Her administration has set up a website that lists all salaries, expenditures, and bids for public projects.”

In 2013 Ocampos, a political novice, launched an unlikely populist campaign for the governorship of “If it weren’t for the projects initiated by GPF it would have been the end ofPuerto Casado,” —Alto Paraguay Governor Marlene Ocampos

 An environment for investment

In June 2014, Korean government and business leaders met with their Paraguayan counterparts in Asunción at an IDPPS symposium, “Towards an Alliance between Paraguay and Korea,” which drew lessons from South Korea’s postwar economic transformation, including the many troubling social problems that have arisen in the wake of breakneck development.

Caption: Global Peace Women-Paraguay honored eight women leaders in areas of education, social service, health care, and faith-based social action at the sixth annual Awards Ceremony, “Women for the Sake of Others,” in Asunción on June 18, 2014. Right: Alto Paraguay Governor Marlene Ocampos (left) presents an award to Sister Maria de las Mercedes Calle Diaz for her service work in the Chaco.

Addressing the symposium, GPF Chairman Dr. Moon told the leaders that Paraguay can provide economic development and material prosperity to all its people “without compromising the spiritual and moral traditions of this nation and its roots in strong family values. A clear national vision, rooted in fundamental spiritual principles and shared moral values, is the essential starting point for national transformation. A solid moral foundation is the basis for building a just society, which is the prerequisite for successful long-term economic growth.”

Underscoring both the nascent partnership between the two nations and the emergence of Paraguay as a viable international investment opportunity, the national government and the Korean-based Il-Sung Construction Company held a ground-breaking ceremony in June 2014 to build an 80 kilometer highway, the first international contract awarded for a domestic infrastructure project of this sort.

In an interview with the Korean Economic Daily, Dr. Moon emphasized that Paraguay’s markets are no longer “dangerous” and now present a stable environment for development. But he warned that if Korean companies only look for short term gains, this could become “exploitative capital,” which is dangerous. “The way to lower risk,” he said, “is to think strategically from a long-term perspective about how to coexist with the local society.”

To accomplish this, the report concluded, “Dr. Moon has been working with Paraguay’s political leaders to end illiteracy, provide education on the values of democracy, and invest in other social welfare activities. At the same time, Dr. Moon has been working to mitigate conflict through activities such as bringing the children of influential leaders to explore regions of extreme poverty in northeast Paraguay.”

 Toward national transformation

“How did GPF succeed?” says Field. “By social work—providing clothing medical supplies, blankets, dentists, doctors—through education of youth with support from the Ministry of Education, and by securing the support of Paraguay’s professional classes. But most importantly, by being clear about priorities. First principles and values—you could say the ‘spiritual foundation’ of a nation—bring stability, direction, and confidence that the future is not in the hands of a privileged elite but in the hands of free people. That is the path of Paraguay’s transformation, and that is what GPF is committed to advancing.”

.“A clear national vision, rooted in fundamental spiritual principles and shared moral values, is the essential starting point for national transformation.” —GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon

Left: GPF Latin America Director Thomas Field invites participants at the 2013 Global Peace Convention in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to the Convention in Asunción in November 2014. Right: Carlos G. Fernández Valdovinos of the Central Bank of Paraguay presents a positive assessment of Paraguay’s economic opportunities at a forum, “Towards an Alliance between Paraguay and Korea,” in Asunción on June 17, 2014.

To register for the Global Peace Convention 2014 visit www.globalpeace.org.

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Top left to right: Alto Paraguay Governor, Marlene Ocampos, Professor Isacio Vallejos Aquino representing the School of Engineering of the National University of Asuncion, Dr. Jose Altamirano, Director of think-tank IDPPS.

The Global Peace Foundation reported that Paraguayan think-tank Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Soñada (IDPPS ), the School of Engineering of the National University of Asuncion (UNA) and the State Government of Alto Paraguay signed a joint agreement formalizing a partnership for future infrastructure projects in four localities in Alto Paraguay: Bahia Negra, Puerto Casado and Fuerte Olimpo.

ABC Color, the first color newspaper in Paraguay, described the three priority areas outlined in the agreement:

• Planning and designing hospital and education centers
• Designing ports
• Designing airstrip hangers

It also mentioned possible development of water treatment centers and landfills and territorial planning.

The National University of Asuncion (UNA) has committed to provide expertise during the planning, adaptation, and implementation of projects, as well as student engagement in areas that match their discipline.

Governor of Alto Paraguay, Marlene Ocampos, elected last year in April, has been a pivotal part of Alto Paraguay’s recent growth. She told ABC Color, “This is an opportunity to receive top level technical assistance to push forward our development.”  Director of the IDPPS think-tank Dr. Jose Altamirano emphasized the potential social impact of the plan.

IDPPS, the Global Peace Foundation supported think-tank, has been heavily involved in stabilizing the department of Alto Paraguay and building partnerships to promote development such as the recent agreement with the University of Asunción.

Top: A view of the Paraguay River. Bottom: A highway map of Paraguay. Alto Paraguay is noticeably underdeveloped.

The agreement brings welcomed progress to Alto Paraguay. A lack of transparency has left Alto Paraguay isolated, with no highways and only two major port cities, even though the Paraguay River runs along its eastern border. Only recently have flights begun between Asuncion and Forto Olympo. Social services and education have been severely limited.

Regional Potential

In many ways, Alto Paraguay is representative of the region’s challenges. During a visit to Paraguay last year, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Chairman of the Global Peace Foundation, told Kyung Hyang Newspaper that high-risk factors like extreme poverty, political instability and corruption have deterred foreign investment until now. But he is hopeful.

Dr. Moon was attending an international conference on ethics, good governance and development hosted by IDPPS and its partners. The general consensus during the conference was that the region must go beyond an outdated system where a small elite governs the social, economic and political activity and seize the opportunity to pioneer new models of democratic, free market systems governed by universal principles and values.

Dr. Hyun Jin Moon says grace before lunch in the town of Maria Auxilidora in Alto Paraguay along the cattle drive route.

He told ABC Color he believes Paraguay could become the center of finance and commerce in Latin America within the next five years, much like Dubai in the Middle East or Singapore in Asia. Geographically it is centrally located between Argentina, Brazil and Bolivia, and more importantly, Paraguay has unlimited human potential.  According to Dr. Moon, the generosity of Paraguayans and their tradition of honoring God in the family, community and national life are essential ingredients for the nation’s rise.

Dr. Moon’s ties to Paraguay run deep.  He fondly refers to the country as his home in the southern hemisphere. His father spent a significant period in the late 90s in local villages and investing in development and sustainability projects. In 2008, Dr. Moon took a number of young Paraguayans on a cattle drive through the Chaco, a large area in Alto Pargauy.  A humble meal from the villagers of Maria Auxilidora left a deep impression. He recalls, “I was moved that people with so little could give so much.”

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Paraguay will host the 2014 Global Peace Convention.

The Global Peace Foundation and partners have been in Paraguay developing a model of nation-building based on principles and values since 2008. In 2010, former and current heads of state, business and civic leaders, academics and media specialists signed the Asuncion Declaration pledging to “revive the civic values and virtues that reflect the better spiritual, democratic, and plural traditions of humanity in this continent.”

Three years have passed and 2013, in many respects, was a pivotal year for Paraguay. In April, she successfully held peaceful elections and smoothly transitioned into the newly elected Cartes administration.  Later in the year, at the Global Peace Convention 2013 in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, Paraguay was announced as the host of the 2014 Global Peace Convention.

These achievements were hard won through the efforts of unassuming champions working on the front-lines to bring transparency and ethics to Paraguay. Among them are Senator Lillian Samaniego, President of the Colorado Party and winner of the 2013 Global Peace Award for Good Governance, H.E. Juan Carlos Wasmosy, former President of Paraguay and founding member of the Latin American Presidential Mission, and newly elected Governor of Alto Paraguay, Marlene Ocampos.

Recently ABC Color interviewed Governor Ocampos on her approach to bringing good governance and economic development to the traditionally isolated and poverty-stricken region of Alto Paraguay. Below is the article posted by the Global Peace Foundation based on the original article in ABC Color, “Alto Paraguay Wants to Strip Itself of the Heavy Burden of Corruption”

Governor Ocampos presented at the Global Peace Business Forum prior to the Global Peace Convention 2013.

Alto Paraguay is the poorest, most isolated state in Paraguay.  Its history is littered with corruption, written by an elite class who has shown little to no concern for its citizens.

The citizens of Alto Paraguay are ready to leave behind the heavy burdens of decades of tainted government. Leaders like the recently elected governor of Alto Paraguay, Marlene Ocampos, the only female governor of Paraguay, are ready to change Alto Paraguay. Through her firm commitment to transparency and morality, Ocampos is stimulating development in the isolated state of Alto Paraguay.

With a population of only 17 thousand people, one wonders about the region’s lack of growth and population. Part of the issue is a lack of infrastructure which keeps the region secluded from the rest of Paraguay. A lack of fiscal responsibility has limited funds that would go towards providing proper services like health care, sanitation, environmental conservation and education.

Most of the 2013 fiscal budget was allotted to the public works sector, but progress has been slow and difficult. With little follow-up and no company accountability, projects were being funded with no results.  Governor Ocampos is working to curb this fiscal abuse by changing the policy to pay only upon project completion.

She said, “The first thing I did was to get together with the construction companies and made it clear that we are not going to pay anything for unfinished work. They thought it was a joke, until they realized their checks were not going to be issued until they finish the bridges.” According to Ocampos, this small change has proven to be significant. “Now the bridges have started to appear.”

Ocampos is working in partnership with the citizens of Alto Paraguay to build a culture of ethics, innovation and ownership.  By involving the local communities in managing development projects, Governor Ocampos believes that public funds will be used in a way that best serve her constituency. “If they take on the projects as their own, they will control them and the money is destined for better use,” she says. She also believes that by involving the local communities, employment opportunities will increase and accountability and social responsibility

Alto Paraguay has a rich biodiversity ranging from the Pantanal to the Chaco. (Photo courtesy of ABC Color)

Although infrastructure isn’t the only problem for Alto Paraguay, it is believed to be a crucial starting point for development. Transportation and information infrastructure will create connections with the rest of Paraguay. The asphalted path of Carmelo Peralta-Loma Plata is an opportunity for Alto Paraguay and is a project that has called the attention of the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC).

This type of development will enable Alto Paraguay to grow economically and strengthened its social fabric.  With the proper tools, Alto Paraguay hopes to overcome its legacy where a small privileged class wielded and maintain most of the power. Access to information and opportunities will allow for better informed and more responsible decisions that will improve the government, economy, and environment.

While there is still much progress to be made and many issues to be addressed, Marlene Ocampos is committed to developing a brighter future for Alto Paraguay.  As a female leader, she brings a unique perspective and approach to her term in office. Ocampos  is openly critical of the culture of corruption that has been detrimental to the people of the region.  After her first 4 months in office she said, “Corruption is the root of all our ills.”

Cooperation is key in Gov. Marlene Ocampos’ efforts to bring about sustainable development and cultural transformation.  While an asphalted path can change the history of Alto Paraguay, the asphalt is not enough to change the habits in the politics class.

What drives Ocampos in her day-to-day efforts is her connection to her fellow citizens.  She has made a covenant with her family of Alto Paraguay. She said,”I have a pledge with the community, I live here. And I won’t fail. Maybe I lack experience, but I have plenty of honesty. We are working hard now seeking to achieve our goals.”

New policies enforcing fiscal responsibility and community involvement is securing infrastructure in Alto Paraguay.

Seeking to achieve goals

Since her time in office, roads and other basic infrastructure have materialized. More importantly relationships of trust and cooperation are being established within Alto Paraguay and with the rest of Paraguay.

The road ahead remains long and challenging, but with a committed and honest leader, the future for Alto Paraguay looks promising to say the least.

This article originally appeared on www.globalpeace.org

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“Dr. Moon reviewing his speech prior to the opening plenary of the international conference on Governance, Ethics and Development.”

During his recent visit to Paraguay, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon pledged his support for national development to president-elect Horatio Cartes, reported news outlet ABC Color in the story “Son of Rev. Moon Offers Help to Make the Nation a Regional Model”.

Dr. Moon believes that within five years Paraguay has the potential to become the center of finance and commerce in Latin America, much like Dubai in the Middle East or Singapore in Asia.

ABC reported Dr. Moon saying Korea is an example for Paraguay to follow. “In sixty years Korea rose out of feudalism, created a national identity and generated an amazing economic miracle in order to be what it is today. The same can happen to Paraguay, but we need strong foundations. Principles and values are needed.”

Dr. Moon shares the conviction of his late father, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, that Paraguay is central to a hemispheric awakening. The strong and outspoken faith of the Paraguayan people is what inspired his father and now him to invest in Paraguay.

But there are still many challenges for the emerging nation with 33% still in poverty according to the Central Bank of Paraguay.  At a meeting at ABC Color with Dr. Moon and others, Marlene Ocampos, governor-elect of Alto Paraguay candidly described some of the difficulties of her state. Inadequate infrastructure isolates the state when rain falls, scant healthcare services contribute to a high rate of maternal deaths, and prevalent poverty has left the population crippled. But Governor-elect Ocampos is determined to pull together the support needed to build the state up.

ABC reported that Dr. Moon pushed education and clearly thought-out development strategies as crucial steps to creating a strong middle class to draw the country out of poverty.  As a gesture of his commitment to Paraguay, Dr. Moon pledged to match the amount raised for a national development fund.

Dr. Moon was in Paraguay in mid-June attending an international conference on “Governance, Ethics and Development” for Latin America, presided by five former heads of state.  A delegation of Korean investors and media also attended. Special sessions examined the benefits of investment and trade between Korea and Paraguay.

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