The following is Dr. Moon’s remarks at the close of the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 held at the Abuja Sheraton Hotel – Abuja, Nigeria. 

 

Dr. Moon addresses participants of the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 in Abuja, Nigeria. “Africans have not been overwhelmed by their challenges. They have the spirit, they have the sense of hope to build a brighter future for themselves, their families, for their future generations.” (Photo Credit: NewIs)

Thank you very much.  First of all, for all of the participants of this convention, both international and from here in Nigeria, please give yourself a round of applause. (Applause)

I know that the last two days have been a very hectic in schedule, because we wanted to make sure that as much could be brought out from this conference, because it is you, especially the leaders here in Nigeria that will need to carry the mantle forward to really bring about substantial change, in your communities in this great nation of Nigeria.

I know that you are challenged in many ways but at the same time I think that many of you were enlightened by the possibility of this great moment because of the ability of this great nation and this continent of Africa.

As I mentioned in my speech, the plenary, I believe that Africa is at a moment of transition.  You have reached a high pinnacle, and yet there are greater heights before you if you are willing to take on the challenge. And I am so moved by the very fact in meeting and speaking to the various leaders in this nation, that you are truly willing and ready to take that challenge.

When I mentioned that this is an exciting moment in the history of this continent, it is because it really is a break from the traditional relationship that this continent had with the developed world.  I believe that the developed world has lost its patina of  credibility over the last several years. With the breakdown of the financial system, with the lack of leadership on the global stage dealing with very real problems that are facing many, many people, millions of people around the world.  In this vacuum there is opportunity for new leadership to rise and set a new precedent.

Now, being someone from a developed country, I call America my home today, I know the potential of America, but at the same time I know the challenges within America.  When I come to a continent such as Africa, where all you have is your future ahead of you, and you can learn from the lessons of the nations that have charted the path of development before you.  You can pick and choose the path to your development.

This gives Africa and the developing world a tremendous bevy of opportunity to chart the path to their development, for their prosperity without having to sacrificing some of the more important things that many of the nations that came before you had to sacrifice for the sake of modernity.

Now as a Korean, I know this personally.  Yes, Korea, was at one point in its history, South Korea, was the poorest nation in the world after the Korean War. Yes, it was poorer than Nigeria.  Yet today,60 years later, it is the 12th largest economy in the world.  The Korean people reached those heights because they chose to be self-reliant.  They chose to determine their own future. In one sense they bought into the whole western model of development, even giving up some of their most cherished and most important parts of their culture and tradition. One of which is the Korean family.

I believe that the developing world, in Southeast Asia, in Latin America and in Africa, can learn from these lessons, so that they can chart a path for development that affects the lives, in a positive way, for all of their citizens, but at the same time, not lose something in the process.

Representatives from media, academia, education, governance, religions, civil society and business convened at the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 in Abuja, Nigeria.

And I believe that through this vision of ‘One Family under God’ and the fact that we are touching upon these root issues that can bring about a peaceful, harmonious united  humanity, which is our spirituality, rooted in principles and values, in a common spiritual vision.  Now in the past many institutions, organizations, individuals and nations have tried to deal and tackle the issue of conflict and peace and corruptions and they have done it through political or diplomatic means or economic aid.  And they have done and followed that same paradigm over decades and decades and decades with the same results, without resolving any major conflict in any part of our globe.

Without really, sincerely dealing with the issue of peace and defining what that means and without rooting out corruption that plagues all nations around the world even in the developed world.

The reason why, I believe, is because we have failed to identify how to address those issues. Those issues fall in the realm of ethics, morality, sense of right or wrong that is tied to humanity’s spirituality.

And yet, no one or organization has tried to deal with it from that perspective.  Yes, in the past there were many interfaith initiatives.  But, remember that the interfaith initiatives of the past have been vehicles to promote one faith tradition and gain acceptance by other faith traditions.  The interfaith approach of GPF, which is different from the interfaith approaches of the past, is that instead of just using interfaith as a vehicle to receive acceptance by other faith traditions, we have taken the approach that there is a common vision that motivates and animates all of humanity.  That vision is ‘One Family under God.’

But more importantly there is a common thread that exists in all of the faith traditions that articulates and identifies universal principles and values as the guiding compass of our daily lives. In other words faith traditions of people of faith have more in common than they do differences.  I would say that 80 % of what we believe, what we aspire to, and what we have in terms of a common ethic are identical. Maybe 10-20% in terms of our theology and doctrines might differ.  And yet it has been that 10-20% that has been the main reason why people of faith have never come together.

Well, GPF is offering another platform.  That we should come together on a common ground to deal with a common issue of our common humanity and that is to build ‘One Family under God.’  (Applause)

The amazing thing is, I remember when we were involved with this journey several years ago, when I started taking this message all around the world.  There were those cynics who would say ‘One Family under God’ sounds too much like a Christian message, will it work in the Muslim world? Well, ‘One Family under God’ sounds too much like an Abrahamic faith message, will it work in the Buddhist or Hindu world?   I think GPF over the years has developed a track record as we went to every single continent around the world, meeting and engaging with people of faith, of all different faith traditions.

If you look at this panel today, we have a Muslim, we have a Methodist, we have a Jain, we have Christians, we have Hindu’s, we have white, black, American, African,  Korean. In other words, all those pretensions that we put aside because we recognize our common humanity, and our common destiny together through the vision of One Family Under God.

 We can come together in agreement because we share common principles and values that can move the human family forward in building a world of peace. And that is the great contribution of this great work. It is tremendous honor for me to come to this nation of Nigeria, the largest nation on the continent. I was told, not by a Kenyan, but I was told, not by other Africans, I was told, by everyone outside of Africa, that if Nigeria moved, Africa will follow. (Applause)

Now, this is the first time I’ve come to Nigeria. And believe me, you showed me a lot. You know, many times I tell my staff, you know, I come to these nations and I never get to see the nation itself. Usually I’m stuck in this conference, I’m stuck in meetings, but actually, I value those meeting the most, as I‘ve met with the leaders of this nation. Because as I’ve said in my speech, I do not see the greatest value in its resources, although you have tremendous resources, you have tremendous potential. I see the true value of this nation in its people, in the potential of leaders that I can inspire. I hope to put a spark in them and enable them to dream big for this nation and for this great continent of Africa.

It is in those meeting that I saw, I told Bishop Sunday, you Africans, you guys joke so much, everything is a joke. But you have a tremendous sense of humor that is contagious. (applause)For someone who comes from outside this continent, because we see on CNN, Fox News, and on the media all the time, all the problems happening all the time. We see the pictures of starving children, of conflict zones where tremendous horrors have been conducted by one race or tribe to another, or one religion to another. And of course, we’re moved by that, and we’re concerned by that, but as I come to Nigeria, and I know this nation is facing challenges even today, when I come to this nation, you’d think the people might be depressed, or not full of spirit, yet the absolute opposite is the case. (Applause)

 Africans have not been overwhelmed  by their challenges. They have the spirit, they have the sense of hope to build a brighter future for themselves, their families, for their future generations. That, that is the more precious than all the gold, oil or diamonds that are on this continent. That is what will allow African to lift itself from its challenges that will bring a bright future for their children and their children’s children.

There always has to be a first step. Today, look at today as that first step.

We are going to be making a pledge, and I want you to make this pledge in the signing of the Abuja declaration your own. Make this your own, own it. Make this your mission in life to make sure that there is a positive future for this nation of Nigeria and the continent of Africa. Become the leaders of transformational change. And believe me, God’s abundant blessing will shine and a new tomorrow shall begin.

 

Thank you very much.

 

The post Dr. Moon Calls on Africa to Create New Models of Development Based on Universal Principles and Shared Values appeared first on Hyun Jin Preston Moon.

The following is a speech that Dr. Moon delivered at the closing plenary of the Global Peace Leadership Conference in Abuja, Nigeria, held at the Abuja Sheraton Hotel from November 7-9, 2013.

Below is the full transcription:

Thank you very much.  First of all, for all of the participants of this convention, both international and from here in Nigeria, please give yourself a round of applause. (Applause)

I know that the last two days have been a very hectic in schedule, because we wanted to make sure that as much could be brought out from this conference, because it is you, especially the leaders here in Nigeria that will need to carry the mantle forward to really bring about substantial change, in your communities in this great nation of Nigeria.

I know that you are challenged in many ways but at the same time I think that many of you were enlightened by the possibility of this great moment because of the ability of this great nation and this continent of Africa.

As I mentioned in my speech, the plenary, I believe that Africa is at a moment of transition.  You have reached a high pinnacle, and yet there are greater heights before you if you are willing to take on the challenge. And I am so moved by the very fact in meeting and speaking to the various leaders in this nation, that you are truly willing and ready to take that challenge.

When I mentioned that this is an exciting moment in the history of this continent, it is because it really is a break from the traditional relationship that this continent had with the developed world.  I believe that the developed world has lost its patina of  credibility over the last several years. With the breakdown of the financial system, with the lack of leadership on the global stage dealing with very real problems that are facing many, many people, millions of people around the world.  In this vacuum there is opportunity for new leadership to rise and set a new precedent.

Now, being someone from a developed country, I call America my home today, I know the potential of America, but at the same time I know the challenges within America.  When I come to a continent such as Africa, where all you have is your future ahead of you, and you can learn from the lessons of the nations that have charted the path of development before you.  You can pick and choose the path to your development.

This gives Africa and the developing world a tremendous bevy of opportunity to chart the path to their development, for their prosperity without having to sacrificing some of the more important things that many of the nations that came before you had to sacrifice for the sake of modernity.

Now as a Korean, I know this personally.  Yes, Korea, was at one point in its history, South Korea, was the poorest nation in the world after the Korean War. Yes, it was poorer than Nigeria.  Yet today,60 years later, it is the 12th largest economy in the world.  The Korean people reached those heights because they chose to be self-reliant.  They chose to determine their own future. In one sense they bought into the whole western model of development, even giving up some of their most cherished and most important parts of their culture and tradition. One of which is the Korean family.

I believe that the developing world, in Southeast Asia, in Latin America and in Africa, can learn from these lessons, so that they can chart a path for development that affects the lives, in a positive way, for all of their citizens, but at the same time, not lose something in the process.

Representatives from media, academia, education, governance, religions, civil society and business convened at the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 in Abuja, Nigeria.

And I believe that through this vision of ‘One Family under God’ and the fact that we are touching upon these root issues that can bring about a peaceful, harmonious united  humanity, which is our spirituality, rooted in principles and values, in a common spiritual vision.  Now in the past many institutions, organizations, individuals and nations have tried to deal and tackle the issue of conflict and peace and corruptions and they have done it through political or diplomatic means or economic aid.  And they have done and followed that same paradigm over decades and decades and decades with the same results, without resolving any major conflict in any part of our globe.

Without really, sincerely dealing with the issue of peace and defining what that means and without rooting out corruption that plagues all nations around the world even in the developed world.

The reason why, I believe, is because we have failed to identify how to address those issues. Those issues fall in the realm of ethics, morality, sense of right or wrong that is tied to humanity’s spirituality.

And yet, no one or organization has tried to deal with it from that perspective.  Yes, in the past there were many interfaith initiatives.  But, remember that the interfaith initiatives of the past have been vehicles to promote one faith tradition and gain acceptance by other faith traditions.  The interfaith approach of GPF, which is different from the interfaith approaches of the past, is that instead of just using interfaith as a vehicle to receive acceptance by other faith traditions, we have taken the approach that there is a common vision that motivates and animates all of humanity.  That vision is ‘One Family under God.’

But more importantly there is a common thread that exists in all of the faith traditions that articulates and identifies universal principles and values as the guiding compass of our daily lives. In other words faith traditions of people of faith have more in common than they do differences.  I would say that 80 % of what we believe, what we aspire to, and what we have in terms of a common ethic are identical. Maybe 10-20% in terms of our theology and doctrines might differ.  And yet it has been that 10-20% that has been the main reason why people of faith have never come together.

Well, GPF is offering another platform.  That we should come together on a common ground to deal with a common issue of our common humanity and that is to build ‘One Family under God.’  (Applause)

The amazing thing is, I remember when we were involved with this journey several years ago, when I started taking this message all around the world.  There were those cynics who would say ‘One Family under God’ sounds too much like a Christian message, will it work in the Muslim world? Well, ‘One Family under God’ sounds too much like an Abrahamic faith message, will it work in the Buddhist or Hindu world?   I think GPF over the years has developed a track record as we went to every single continent around the world, meeting and engaging with people of faith, of all different faith traditions.

If you look at this panel today, we have a Muslim, we have a Methodist, we have a Jain, we have Christians, we have Hindu’s, we have white, black, American, African,  Korean. In other words, all those pretensions that we put aside because we recognize our common humanity, and our common destiny together through the vision of One Family Under God.

We can come together in agreement because we share common principles and values that can move the human family forward in building a world of peace. And that is the great contribution of this great work. It is tremendous honor for me to come to this nation of Nigeria, the largest nation on the continent. I was told, not by a Kenyan, but I was told, not by other Africans, I was told, by everyone outside of Africa, that if Nigeria moved, Africa will follow. (Applause)

Now, this is the first time I’ve come to Nigeria. And believe me, you showed me a lot. You know, many times I tell my staff, you know, I come to these nations and I never get to see the nation itself. Usually I’m stuck in this conference, I’m stuck in meetings, but actually, I value those meeting the most, as I‘ve met with the leaders of this nation. Because as I’ve said in my speech, I do not see the greatest value in its resources, although you have tremendous resources, you have tremendous potential. I see the true value of this nation in its people, in the potential of leaders that I can inspire. I hope to put a spark in them and enable them to dream big for this nation and for this great continent of Africa.

It is in those meeting that I saw, I told Bishop Sunday, you Africans, you guys joke so much, everything is a joke. But you have a tremendous sense of humor that is contagious. (applause)For someone who comes from outside this continent, because we see on CNN, Fox News, and on the media all the time, all the problems happening all the time. We see the pictures of starving children, of conflict zones where tremendous horrors have been conducted by one race or tribe to another, or one religion to another. And of course, we’re moved by that, and we’re concerned by that, but as I come to Nigeria, and I know this nation is facing challenges even today, when I come to this nation, you’d think the people might be depressed, or not full of spirit, yet the absolute opposite is the case. (Applause)

 Africans have not been overwhelmed  by their challenges. They have the spirit, they have the sense of hope to build a brighter future for themselves, their families, for their future generations. That, that is the more precious than all the gold, oil or diamonds that are on this continent. That is what will allow African to lift itself from its challenges that will bring a bright future for their children and their children’s children.

There always has to be a first step. Today, look at today as that first step.

We are going to be making a pledge, and I want you to make this pledge in the signing of the Abuja declaration your own. Make this your own, own it. Make this your mission in life to make sure that there is a positive future for this nation of Nigeria and the continent of Africa. Become the leaders of transformational change. And believe me, God’s abundant blessing will shine and a new tomorrow shall begin.

Thank you very much.

The post Dr. Hyun Jin Moon speech at the Closing Plenary of GPF Abuja 2013 appeared first on Hyun Jin Preston Moon.

The following is a speech that Dr. Moon delivered at the opening plenary of the Global Peace Leadership Conference in Abuja, Nigeria, held at the Abuja Sheraton Hotel from November 7-9, 2013.

Dr. Hyun Jin Moon urged Nigeria to become a leader of moral and innovative leadership in Africa. (Photo Credit: NewsIs)Your excellencies, distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen:It is a great honor to join with you here today in Abuja for this very important conference on “Moral and Innovative Leadership: Building Sustainable Peace for a Prosperous Future.”

This is a theme of the greatest significance for this nation of Nigeria, the region of West Africa and the entire continent of Africa as we stand at this moment of historic transition. That is why addressing the fundamental issues of a new leadership paradigm to propel this nation forward and all of Africa, is so important in the history of not just Nigeria but this entire continent.

I would like to express my special appreciation to His Excellency President Goodluck Jonathan for contributing his input and support of this initiative. Among the many distinguished participants who are here with us today, I would like to give special recognition to our illustrious friend and many ways mentor, Sir James Mancham, founding president of Seychelles and former President Amani Karume of Zanzibar for launching the African Presidential Leadership Mission on Peacebuilding; I would also especially like to give my thanks to the chairman of GPF Africa, my very good friends and someone who constantly keeps me on my toes, Dr. Manu Chandaria of Comcraft Chairman and my good friend from the United Nations Dr. Markendey Rai, both of whom are members of GPF’s Global Leadership Council.  Could you please give them a round of applause.

Particular recognition should be given to the many religious leaders and traditional rulers who have contributed to the One Family Under God campaign of peacebuilding here in Nigeria with GPF including Archbishop Cardinal John Onaiyekan, I hope I’m saying that right, representatives of the Sultan of Sokoto, Bishop Sunday Onouha, Reverend John Hayab and Sheik Maraya of Kaduna, among many, many others. Please forgive me if I did not pronounce your name correctly.

This conference has been organized by the Global Peace Foundation in partnership with the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution. However, many other people and organizations have joined with us, together as owners of this cause and worked tirelessly to make this conference, and the subsequent “One Family under God” campaign, a resounding success. Please give them all a round of applause.

I particularly want to appreciate the Nigerian Inter-Faith Action Association and all the other faith leaders engaged in this work. We would not be here today if it was not for their sincere devotion and ownership over this powerful vision. Could we give them all a round of applause?

Ladies and Gentlemen, Africa today stands atop a new pinnacle with the potential of climbing even higher in its very near future. Dramatic new possibilities are opening up. The world is beginning to see the potential of Africa. The continent as a whole is growing faster than any other region in the world with a $2 trillion economy.

By 2035 the African workforce will be larger than that of China’s.The era of military strongmen, coup détats and civil unrest seems to be in the decline, despite the often-jaded coverage of this region by the international press corps.

But what’s even more promising is the possibility of stability, peace and prosperity through the rise of constitutional democratic regimes, a process that is engaging more and more Africans in actively shaping the futures of their nations and the continent as a whole.

Dr. Hyun Jin and Dr. Jun Sook Moon with Mrs. Aruna and Dr. Manu Chandaria and Chesuwa Kaunda at the opening plenary of the Global Peace Leadership Conference Abuja 2013. (Photo Credit: NewsIs)

These are significant developments since they mark a period of African self-determination far removed from the traditional paternalism of the developed world, that dominated the relationship between the West and this continent for the last half century.

As a Korean who witnessed my birth-nation’s rise in 60 short years to become one of the largest, leading economies through its self-reliance movement, I am confidently optimistic about the changes that are happening in Africa and especially here in Nigeria.

Within Africa, Nigeria is positioned to be a major leader. You have the most populous nation with a highly educated elite and tremendous natural resources. You also have a reputation as a very spiritual people.

In fact, Nigeria’s most valuable resource is not its resources but its great people. Two of the great faith traditions, Christianity and Islam, are represented here in almost equal numbers and you have a tradition of cooperation between the faiths that could offer a lesson to the world, despite your current challenges.

However, we recognize all too clearly that the prospect for peace and progress faces serious obstacles. The two major threats are conflict – between ethnic groups, and increasingly from extremists fueled by distorted and radical understandings of their faith traditions – and corruption.

In Nigeria you have experienced conflict of both sorts, through the violence of Boko Haram, and in the Delta region over the distribution of wealth from oil resources. Corruption remains a major drain on the economy and prevents the great wealth generated by Nigeria’s natural resources from benefiting the Nigerian people and Nigerian society as a whole.

The time is ripe for Africans to take responsibility for shaping your own destiny. That means exercising true leadership. True leadership does not mean wielding power for its own sake.

True leadership is moral and innovative leadership whose power lies in the moral authority rooted in core universal principles and shared moral values.We have witnessed in the past century, compelling examples such leadership in the lives of people like Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, and Nelson Mandela. Each of them overcame great material forces arrayed against them, through the power and the truth of the universal principles and values to which they gave voice.

Moral leadership is more precious for the future of a nation than gold, diamonds and oil, under the soil. It is guided by a common vision that reflects the most fundamental human aspirations, conforms to the universal spiritual principles that govern human life, and is expressed in shared moral values that can ultimately form a global ethic.

That vision is the simple yet profound idea that all people, regardless of race, nationality, religion, or culture, are members of One Family under God.

This proposition has implicit within it certain fundamental principles.

First, each human being has unique value and dignity from the Creator and should be treated accordingly. Second, since we share a common Source or Origin, therefore, in the words of the American Declaration of Independence, “all men are created equal and are endowed by the Creator with certain unalienable rights.”

These rights originate with the Creator and cannot be removed or denied by any government or other human institution. Third, as members of one family sharing a common origin, we also share a common responsibility for one another and for the fate of our common destinies.

Within this framework of moral leadership, innovation can take place. The innovative leader develops concrete approaches to critical issues through the lens of this common spiritual vision rooted in universal principles and shared moral values, drawing upon human beings’ natural creativity.

I have always felt a great affinity for Africa and African people because of the great potential I see here. More and more experts are pointing out bright economic prospects, but the potential I see that can be truly transformative force on this continent is spiritual.

When I look at all of you gathered here for this conference and hear about the work you are doing, I see many ‘owners’ who are ready to take responsibility for the future of this nation of Nigeria. I was inspired to learn that religious leaders and traditional rulers here have grasped the power of a compelling vision and on your own initiative launched the One Family under God campaign here, in partnership with GPF.

Through religious and traditional leaders, such as the Emir of Abuja, the One Family under God message is being spread to communities here in Nigeria. There it serves as a spiritual antidote to the Boko Haram message of domination, division, and conflict.

Through this work, Nigeria, with the even balance of Christian and Muslim in your population, is uniquely positioned to create a model of interfaith cooperation that will have global impact in mitigating the effects of religious radicalism.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am a man of faith and I believe that God’s Providence is calling faith leaders to be the peacemakers in this age.The threat of religious extremism cannot be resolved by political or economic solutions alone. A true and lasting resolution must be rooted in faith and expressed through practical spirituality.

To that end, faith leaders must step beyond the confines of their own sectarian or denominational traditions, and act together as true spiritual leaders, representing God’s hope for the world, not just the interests of a particular religion.

Such a movement will raise humanity to a new level of understanding of the ways of peace and reconciliation, establishing new norms that become the foundation of a new global ethic.Nigeria stands on the frontline of the dangerous division within the Abrahamic tradition, between Islam and Christianity. Abraham was blessed and his descendants after him, because of his faith and devotion in one God.

How ironic that today many of the heirs of that tradition, whether it be with the Christian or Muslim, who accuse each other of worshiping different gods.People of faith need to step back and reflect deeply on the true meaning of the original message taught by their founders.

None of the great faith traditions teaches division, domination, and conflict, though all of them have been distorted to promote such things at times. Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” What higher honor could there be than that? In Islam, the very words of greeting, “As salamu alykum,” mean “peace be upon you,” and the word “Islam” itself has its roots in words meaning peace, and wholeness.

We who inherit traditions must be true to the ideal of peace under God expressed at the heart of their teachings, heal division, and bring the family of Abraham to become one.The challenge is global in scope as Christianity and Islam face each other in tense and sometimes violent relationships in many different parts of the world.

That is why GPF has made the promotion of cooperation among faiths the first of our three key focus areas for promoting global peace. We have worked to bring Christian and Muslim communities to cooperate together in conflict areas such as Mindanao of the Philippines.

Next month in Malaysia, a country of diverse faiths, including Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism, the annual Global Peace Convention will highlight the importance of interfaith cooperation and establish a platform for future work in the Middle East.

The problem of divisions among faith traditions is great and extends beyond the Abrahamic tradition. Since the end of the Cold War and its two blocs of competing ideology, the global geopolitical dynamic has been reconfigured by the power of politicized and radicalized versions of the great faith traditions.

The threat that this represents is extreme and can only be countered by true spiritual leaders, true men and women of God, stepping beyond the boundaries of their own traditions, to work in common cause with those of other faith traditions, while each drawing on the deep strength and original vision of their own tradition.

This is truly carrying out the work of God, creating a world where all live as members of One Family under God, that can find peace, security and prosperity. Such a movement will transform Nigeria, and its effects will ripple out across the region, throughout the continent, into the Middle East, until it ultimately encompasses the world.

Within Nigeria itself, the impact of a powerfully active movement of cooperation among faiths will not only erode the influence of religious radicalism, but will also address ethnic and tribal divisions. It can also be a powerful force against corruption, by speaking out for the highest standards of public service and promoting and protecting those ready to uphold them.

Such a faith movement can also tackle poverty, health, education, and other social needs, through initiatives such as the distribution of mosquito nets, acting as non-governmental social agencies.This work will be more effective through drawing on the power of the traditional model of the extended family. Such families, through mutual support, provide a social safety net independent of government. This is in stark contrast to the nuclear family models predominant in developed nations, whose deficits, psychologically, socially, and fiscally are now becoming clear as large numbers of older people rely on underfunded government programs to provide for the elderly.

More important, though, than a social safety net, the extended family provides an ethical and spiritual safety net, nurturing and transmitting cultural tradition and moral standards. This is the core of strong communities that are the building blocks of a healthy society and strong nation.

That is why the strengthening of families and communities is GPF’s second major focus area. The Global Peace Foundation is a young movement, but from the beginning I have invested much of our effort into Africa because of the hope I see there.

Dr. Manu Chandaria presents Dr. Moon with the UN Award given to GPF Kenya in recognition for its work with sustainable peace and youth empowerment.

We began our work in Kenya, in the wake of the terrible 2008 post-election violence, holding public festivals and sponsoring grassroots projects to promote peace and reconciliation. Here in Nigeria I am proud to announce the launch of two projects, the Character and Creativity Initiative (CCI), and the All Lights Village Project, along with the Africa Peace Service Corps.

The large youth populations in Africa will shape the future of their countries for better or worse. CCI will inculcate the moral outlook and the skills needed for them to succeed, and Nigeria can become a pioneer in this movement for all of Africa.

CCI’s approach is innovative because it engages the school and local community in developing a culture that promotes moral and innovative leadership in practical ways. In Kenya, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education there are plans to extend CCI throughout all of Kenyan schools.

The prestigious national think-tank, KIPPRA, reviewed the progress of CCI schools over the past two years and found major improvements in school culture and performance. As a result, the Ministry of Education, has now made character development part of the assessment of successful school performance.

The All Lights Village project, launched in Asia, is now coming to Nigeria. All Lights is pioneering a comprehensive approach to development in rural communities. It begins with bringing solar lamps to villages without electrification. But that is just the starting point for ongoing initiatives that promote the “light” of education, the empowerment of social entrepreneurial capacity-building, and an enduring commitment of community development.

We also have distinguished leaders from the political sphere here with us ready to promote moral and innovative leadership. I would like to congratulate those heads of state, former and present, who are joining together to launch the Africa Leadership Mission on Peacebuilding, Youth Leadership, and Service, here at this conference.

The Leadership Mission will engage former heads of state and research institutions and is modeled on the Latin American Presidential Mission launched last year during the Global Peace Convention at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta.

Through the power of moral and innovative leadership rooted in the unifying vision of One Family under God, Nigeria can rise above its present challenges.

Your faith leaders are already working together, in partnership with traditional leaders. Through uniting and cooperating around this powerful moral vision you can give direction and hope to the Nigerian people and hold your political leaders to account.

Nigeria’s faith leaders can show how it is possible for different traditions to unite around shared principles and values to resolve conflict and secure peace. In so doing you will be creating a great benefit for Africa and for the world, by demonstrating a model that others can emulate.

If you can seize the vision of One Family under God and make it into a reality; if the rising generation of young leaders can inherit and practice this vision, then the hope for Nigeria will be bright. Your country can become a light and a true leader in the new emerging Africa, an example and inspiration for other nations to follow.

I urge you to join with me and unite together in pursuit of this great cause so that Nigeria can realize its true destiny.

Thank you and may God bless you and your families

The post Dr. Moon Addresses International Peacemakers at Opening Plenary of Global Peace Leadership Conference Abuja 2013 appeared first on Hyun Jin Preston Moon.

Over the next few months, three major events will be hosted by the Global Peace Foundation. Dr. Moon will be traveling to Nigeria, Philippines and Malaysia to attend the upcoming Global Peace Leadership Conferences and Festivals as well as the annual Global Peace Convention.

Here is a snapshot of the events.

Global Peace Leadership Conference – Abuja, Nigeria

November 7-9, 2013

The GLOBAL PEACE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE in Abuja is themed: “Moral and Innovative Leadership: Building Sustainable Peace for a Prosperous Future. Nigeria has been blessed with natural resources such as oil and soil, but also with a richly diverse people. However, religious and tribal tensions have posed a formidable challenge to the developing nation.  This Leadership Conference will call for moral and innovative leaders from across Africa who will forge networks transcending traditional barriers to move the continent forward.

The following outcomes are projected:

• Build a coalition of peacemakers beyond religious, political, social, and ethnic/tribal differences to promote regional and national unity, integration, and of a culture of peace;
• Present a new approach to peace-building and development transcending economic, political and diplomatic strategies, and grounded in shared spiritual and ethical values;
• Promote ‘whole-person’ education that can empower youths to develop character and good citizenship as a society’s most valuable resource;
• Advance a Pan-African agenda for sustainable peace and development.
• Launch of an AFRICAN LEADERSHIP MISSION on peacebuilding, young leadership and service.

Global Peace Festival, Nigeria

09-Nov-2013

At the close of the Global Peace Leadership Conference, GPF and its partners will host a major celebration of Africa’s rich diversity and offer a common platform for cooperation and co-prosperity.

The GLOBAL PEACE FESTIVAL Celebration will be on November 9 at the Eagle Square with the theme ‘One Family Under God: Celebrating our Unity in Diversity.’ A signature initiative of the Global Peace Foundation, Global Peace Festivals since 2007 have drawn more than a million peace-minded citizens from different cultures and backgrounds on six continents, advancing principles of service to others, interfaith collaboration, and support for strengthened family values as a building block of a peaceful society.

Global Peace Leadership Conference – Manila, Philippines

20-Nov-2013 to 22-Nov-2013

“Moral and Innovative Leadership: A platform for Sustainable Peace and Development.”

The GLOBAL PEACE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2013 in the Philippines will focus on “Moral and Innovative Leadership: A platform for Sustainable Peace and Development.”

Global Peace Leadership Conference is a forum that addresses specific regional concerns and build consensus for political and community-based responses to poverty and conflict. GPF in Southeast Asia has made significant contributions to sustainable development and peace through its partnerships. This GPLC will highlight the progress made as well as address outstanding issues.

Global Peace Festival, Philippines

21-Nov-2013 to 21-Nov-2013
One World. One Family. One Celebration

GLOBAL PEACE FESTIVAL has grown into a worldwide movement engaging political and spiritual leaders, sports stars celebrities, and partnering organizations. In the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Kenya, and Nepal, the Global Peace Festival has won support of Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Indonesia peoples. It has also engaged government and civil society leaders in service and cultural events that have advanced respect for religious and ethnic differences.

This year, in celebration of the Global Peace Festival 2013 Philippines, the Global Peace Foundation will be convening at the close of the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 Philippines on November 22. The Festival celebrates “1World, 1 Family, 1 Celebration.”

Visit HERE for more information.

 Global Peace Convention

05-Dec-2013 to 08-Dec-2013

“Unity in Diversity: Building Social Cohesion for Sustainable Peace through Universal Aspirations, Principles and Values”

The GLOBAL PEACE CONVENTION (GPC) 2013, the annual convening of the Global Peace Foundation, which will take place from December 5–8 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – home to many faiths which form part of the rich tapestry of this vibrant Southeast Asian nation. This year’s theme, “Unity in Diversity: Building Social Cohesion for Sustainable Peace through Universal Aspirations, Principles and Values,” will engage world leaders from government, academia, business, the nonprofit sector and civil society in a unique, collaborative exchange.

The post Dr. Moon Scheduled to Travel to Africa and Southeast Asia appeared first on Hyun Jin Preston Moon.

The recent high-level consultation held in Nigeria for religious and tribal leaders in May 2013, “The Role of Religious Leaders and Traditional Rulers in Building a Culture of Peace, National Unity and Integration,”

The Global Peace Foundation announced the regional  Global Peace Leadership Conference will be held on November 7-9 in Abuja, Nairobi.

Africa is at a turning point where she has the potential to become a leading force in the world. The Global Peace Foundation notes that International Monetary Fund reports six of the fastest growing economies in the world are in Sub-Saharan Africa. Moreover, Africa has the potential to set precedents in numerous areas: technological and social innovation, ethnic and religious cooperation, regional peace and development.

However, to harness this potential for the benefit of all people of Africa and the world, Africa needs a shared vision rooted in principles and values to strengthen the alliances within the African Union. A vision that defines a dream for all of Africa and how she will contribute to humanity.

The richest resource of Africa is her people, yet it has not been fully cultivated. Without a common vision, differences have become the reason for the most heated and violent conflicts on the continent.  That which makes Africa’s population rich, the span of human culture, race, and religion represented, has instead been a deficit.

The upcoming Global Peace Leadership Conference will be an opportunity for leaders from every sector of Africa: religion, academia, politics, civil society, to come together and forge a common platform upon which they can form proactive partnerships to address the challenges in Africa, like ongoing sectarian violence and religious extremism, development, health and education.

A major outcome of the conference will be the launch of an African Leadership Mission, similar to the Latin American Presidential Mission that was launched at the Global Peace Convention in Atlanta in 2012.

The Latin American Presidential Mission has presented a model of cooperation based on a common vision, principles and values in pursuit of greater hemispheric cooperation and sustainable development and security. The Mission has converged former and current presidents, policy thinkers and grassroots activists with a common commitment for a hemispheric awakening. To date it has hosted forums and conferences to deliberate on some of the most pressing issue of Latin America like good governance, development, justice and the right and integration of underrepresented sectors like youth and women. It has also create a space where current leaders can mentor rising leaders, bringing their wisdom and experience to guide the younger generation’s innovation and ambition.

An African Leadership Mission would bring together a powerful network of moral and innovative leaders who can lead Africa in an unprecedented era with a common vision for the continent that would bring reconciliation and peace. It would secure prosperity in the four corners of the African continent, from the Sahara to Cape of Good Hope and from the Ivory Coast to coasts of Zanzibar, and present a new model of regional development based on a common and universal aspiration for peace.

To read more on the upcoming conference or to register visit: www.globalpeace.org

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