A recent forum hosted by the Center for International and Strategic Studies and the Global Peace Foundation highlighted South Korea’s growing role in global humanitarian development. In less than 50 years, South Korea has transitioned from a aid-receiving nation to and aid-providing nation. It’s exceptional story of economic development has been considered a new model for many emerging nations.

Below is the report posted on the Global Peace Foundation.

Posted on March 18, 2015

South Korea’s growing international development experience will hold important lessons in any future scenario of unification with North Korea, Ambassador Young-mok Kim, president of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), told a Washington D.C. forum on March11.

 Amb. Kim said that the experience in assisting less-developed countries with health, education, and infrastructure projects provided lessons that would prove invaluable in assisting the economically backward North in the future. Per capita GDP in South Korea is 30-40 times greater than that in the North.

He said that KOICA’s work in former communist countries such as Laos and Cambodia could prove especially helpful as they showed North Korea a model for transition. Amb. Kim was speaking at a forum, “The United States, South Korea and Civil Society Cooperation in Global Humanitarian Development,” jointly sponsored by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and Global Peace Foundation. KOICA is now active in over 100 countries.

“This may be the first time Korea has introduced its work for global development in Washington,” D.C., Amb. Kim said.  He described Korea’s dynamic transition from an aid recipient with a per capita GDP in 1953 of $73 to an official donor country. In the fifty years after 1945 Korea received $12 billion in international aid, 44 percent of which came from the U.S.

“Many developing nations consider Korea an exemplary model for development. They are attracted by its focus on grassroots rural community development.”

KOICA volunteers have worked together around the world with the Peace Corps.

KOICA has close working arrangements with the U.S. Peace Corps (above) as well as with USAID and UN agencies to support projects in 130 countries.

But Korea also learned to help itself, not only through a growing industrial sector in the 1970s but also through the Saemaul Undong or “New Village Movement.” This encouraged enterprise and self-reliance in rural communities. It balanced development there with the advances in the urban industrial sector and helped to limit income inequality.

The Korean experience of growth is one that many developing nations are now anxious to learn from. “Many developing nations consider Korea an exemplary model for development,” Amb. Kim said. “Over 30 countries are planning to adopt Saemaul Undong,” he continued. They are attracted by its focus on grassroots rural community development.

Jon Brause, director of the World Food Program’s (WFP) D.C. office, added that Korea’s unique development experience, which includes a strong civil society element, is being recognized by other countries. “Korea gives nations the confidence to say ‘We can do it too.’” WFP has partnered with KOICA for 51 years. They are currently cooperating to implement Saemaul Undong in several African countries.

Amb. Kim stressed the importance of public and private partnerships for KOICA and for successful development work in general. Although KOICA does not work directly in North Korea it cooperates closely with a number of UN agencies that are active there and helps facilitate their work. KOICA also has close working arrangements on many projects with the U.S. agencies, USAID and the U.S. Peace Corps.In the private sphere, “KOICA is very keen to seek for innovative partnerships with prestigious global NGOs and foundations that will bring far-reaching impact,” he said. Domestically, KOICA has worked with civil society groups for 20 years to leverage resources and experience. It is engaged with 130 civil society partners. In 2013, Korea’s non-profit sector raised $3.8 billion to support 1,400 projects in 103 countries.

Such partnerships, public and private, domestic and international, would prove vital, said Amb. Kim, in “helping countries in transition or in transformation to succeed and finally achieve democracy and prosperity.”

For original story and program visit: www.globalpeace.org

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The Kaduna Peace Summit called on religious leaders, traditional rulers and civil society representatives to work together for peace.

The One Family Under God campaign was launched with a coalition of religious, governmental and traditional leaders in 2013. The simple recognition of the inextricably connected destiny of people of all faiths and Nigerians as a whole has started gained momentum and yielded real impact in Nigeria.

Most recently, over 700 government and religious leaders, traditional rulers and civil society representatives attended the Kaduna Peace Summit on October 23, 2014. The summit reviewed the outcomes of the ongoing Interfaith Youth Leaders Retreats that have been held since the middle of the year as part of the “One Family Under God Campaign” and issue a call, particularly for religious leaders, to foster greater coordination and cooperation in the nation to secure peace as the foundation for development.

H.E. Hajiya Amina Namadi Sambo, wife of the vice president of Nigeria attended with several women leaders, including the wife of the Kaduna State governor and the wife of the deputy governor. Other notable attendees included: a representative of the Governor of Kaduna State, 230 delegates from the 23 local government areas, alumni of previous Interfaith Youth Leader Retreats, representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria and Ja’amatu Nasril Islam, and leaders of several interfaith associations of Nigeria like the Nigerian Interfaith Action Association, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution; and the Interfaith Mediation Center of the Muslim-Christian Dialogue in Kaduna State.

Summit chair Archbishop Josiah Idowu-Fearon, the Anglican Archbishop of the Province of Kaduna and Bishop of Kaduna diocese, fondly called, “Mr. Dialogue”.

The overwhelming message went out to religious leaders and people of faith to recognize the principles and values shared by both religions. “We have a common God and we therefore have common values,” said summit chair Archbishop Josiah Idowu-Fearon, the Anglican Archbishop of the Province of Kaduna and Bishop of Kaduna diocese, fondly called, “Mr. Dialogue. He said peace building and service are an expression of these shared values.

A number of speakers, including H.E. Amina Sambo, recognized the connection between peace and development. Noting that recent inter-religious violence has stagnated the economic and social growth of the State, while alluding to historic accounts of peaceful relations to suggest that it is possible for regions to live and work together.

H.E. Amina Sambo stressed that faith should serve as a catalyst for peace, not conflict. She said, “Although our country, Nigeria is a secular state we do know that most of us are either Muslims or Christians. The same God created us though we worship him in different ways. We are one family under one God. Therefore we should live together in peace and not use religion or ethnicity to unleash violence and kill as both religions preach peace.” Recognizing the upcoming elections next year, she said peace imperative to ensure a fair and free election.

H.E. Hajiya Amina Namadi Sambo, wife of the vice president of Nigeria addresses the peace summit.

Pastor James Wuye, co-directors of the Interfaith Mediation Center of the Muslim-Christian Dialogue in Kaduna State, put out a challenge to the summit, “My Challenge to all of us is that, let us start a competition in this state and the competition should be, who will outwit the other in doing good; is it the Muslims or the Christians? Let’s start the completion of sharing love, sharing food, sharing money and let there be a scale”.

Imam Muhammad Ashafa recognized the role of women in securing peace in the home, and directly addressed the women leaders present, “I call on our mothers to take this seriously, start from home to forgive the unforgiveable so that the future can be a better place.”The summit recognized the impact of the “One Family under God” campaign and the work of the Global Peace Foundation to foster interfaith cooperation and peace. Her Excellency, Hajiya Fatima Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, wife of the Governor of Kaduna State said, “I cannot but commend the efforts and sacrifice of Global Peace Foundation for this summit organised to foster understanding and cooperation.” She sounded her optimism for peace in Kaduna State, saying: “I am optimistic that with the help of our youths, peace organisations, associations and foundations like the Global Peace Foundation, we will overcome any obstacle that stands in the way of our continued peaceful coexistence”.

Original story appeared on www.globalpeace.org

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“Well functioning democracies stand on a foundation of principles and values. These are spiritual values that are not derived from any human institution, but endowed by our Creator. These are not just abstract ideals, but have real world implications.” ~Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Chairman of the Global Peace Foundation

Speakers and moderators from left to right: Dr. Leonardo Guzman; former President Luis Lacalle; Jorge Guldenzoph, President of CLU and GPF-Uruguay; Ruperto Long, former Senator and Dr. Alberto Scavarelli, Former Senator

Dr. Moon emphasizes that without political and social stability grounded on universal principles and values, sustainable, long-term economic development is not viable. Thus, the Global Peace Foundation has focused on developing practical applications of such values into policy and practice.

The Global Peace Foundation has been active in Latin America, particularly in Paraguay since 2009. One of its primary focuses has been on establishing a firm foundation of moral leadership guided by enduring principles and values as the basis for national transformation.

One example is the GPF supported think tank, IDPPS, led by former Chief Justice Dr. Jose Altamirrano. IDPPS has co-hosted several high-level conferences and forums that apply values to pressing challenges in areas such as media, development, governance and justice. The think-tank has also played an advisory role for a number of Paraguayan leaders as teh country moves toward transparency and political stability.

In addition IDPPS’s partnership with the Uruguay Leadership Conference and the Esquipulas Foundation has birthed the Latin American Presidential Mission, a network of former and current heads of state in the region committed to a revival of spiritual principles as the foundation for the regions’ progress.

”Long lasting change involving social development can only stem from principles and ethical and moral values which are meaningful in the past, still are at present and will be in the future.”

Recently, the Global Peace Foundation, in partnership with the Leadership Conference of Uruguay (LCU), the Latin American Presidential Mission, Esquipulas Foundation and the institute for the Development of Thought hosted a forum titled, “Enduring Values in Society in Transformation” on June 10. The forum was held at the newly opened Fourth Tower of the World Trade Center in Montevideo, Uruguay. Over 140 participants, including ministers of the Supreme Court of Justice, legislators, mass media owners, religious leaders, leaders of political parties, non-government organizations, and education, attended.

The timely program focused on the relevance of enduring values as the foundation for long term stability and development. Later this year, Uruguay, will hold a number of important elections, including the presidential election.

Former president of Uruguay and founding member of the Latin American Presidential Mission, Dr. Luis Alberto Lacalle Herrera, reflected on the signing of the Asuncion Declaration, which later gave birth to the Latin American Presidential Mission in 2012. The Declaration was a commitment “to work – beyond religious, political, social, and ethnic differences – for the unity of Latin America as a continent of peace and future that can shine light in a world filled with uncertainties and confusion.”

Top: Speakers addressed the importance of enduring principles and values as the foundation for progress and development. Bottom: Over 140 participants represented a cross-section of Uruguay’s leadership, from media, education, civil society and government.

Mr. Jorge Guldenzoph, President of the Leadership Conference of Uruguay and Global Peace Foundation Uruguay, referenced historian Arnold Toynbee, who stipulated that the fall of civilizations were preceded by their moral decline. Mr. Guldenzoph called for a revival of spiritual values to rebuild the social fabric.

A participant concluded, “Long lasting change involving social development can only stem from principles and ethical and moral values which are meaningful in the past, still are at present and will in the future.” Speakers provided insight and experience to strengthen the argument that shared values are the foundation for stable families, educational institutions, societies and economic and political systems.

The Global Peace Foundation, Latin American Presidential Mission, IDPPS and other partners have made important milestones in reaching consensus around universal principles that transcend national, religious and cultural differences to build a foundation for greater regional integration and cooperation, critical stepping stones for continued progress of the region.

Dr. Hyun Jin Moon is Chairman of the Global Peace Foundation, a non-profit, non-governmental, non-sectarian organization that seeks values-based models to peace and development.

See the original report at: http://www.globalpeace.org/newsapp/dialogue-series-in-uruguay-emphasize-the-importance-of-enduring-values-for-societies-in-transition#sthash.lizLqDCl.dpuf

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Hyun Jin Moon speaks at the Paraguay conference about the importance of Paraguay – South Korea relations.

A Gallop Poll published in May 2014 ranked Paraguay first in the world for experiencing positive emotions. During his recent visit to Paraguay, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, chairman of the Global Peace Foundation commented on this finding. “This goes to show that true happiness is not derived solely from material success, but is rooted in our deep faith in God, in strong families and communities, and in our love of country.”

Paraguay, host the 2014 Global Peace Convention in November, was nominated for its unique story of national transformation. The nation has overcome economic and political difficulties by building on their spiritual values and faith in God, and trusting in their families and communities.

In recent years, the family has gained international recognition as a major contributor to peace and development. Outcomes from the 20th anniversary of the International Day of Families illustrate this increased awareness. A report issued by the UN Secretary-General in preparation for the observance of the 20th Anniversary of the International Day of Families expressed that the family is “the fundamental unit of society” and “offers a comprehensive approach to solving some of the persistent development challenges.” This year’s high-level proceedings emphasized and urged for family-friendly policies and the integration of the family as partners in securing international development goals. The theme, “Families Matter for the Achievement of Development Goals,” focused on highlighting the critical role of families in promoting inter-generational solidarity, social integration, education and poverty reduction.

A recent article by the Global Peace Foundation on the International Day of Families celebration in Nepal gives insight into how this plays out on a national level.

Guest speaker Mrs. Finu Singh, President of Housewives Association observed, “Families indeed play an important role in the development of the nation.” She detailed how family relationships and values related to national well-being.

Global Peace Association and Global Peace Women Nepal hosts a forum on International Day of Families

Speakers also pointed to extended families as key agents in securing inter-generational solidarity. According to the GPF article, numerous studies support that inter generational extended families foster sensitivity and are the most natural and safe environment for elder care. Mr. Krishna Prasad Pandey, a speaker representing World Prediction, told the forum “the joint family is important as there are many members in the family who can work as a team.” Er. Ram Rohan Panta, GPF Nepal President, pointed to the important role of active parents in their children’s lives.

The family has also been recognized as a primary place for social integration. Issue like gender inequality and education are most effectively addressed in the family. Mrs. Yamuna Shrestha, urged parents to treat sons and daughters with equal value and provide equal opportunities for education. Such precedents within the family have a positive impact on the larger community. “Women play the most important role,” noted panelist Menuka Rai. “When the woman in the family has good moral values then she can keep her family happy and lead her children to good path.”

The Global Peace Foundation places special focus on the family as the cornerstone of society and the first place where values are instilled through the most intimate relationships between individuals. In Nepal GPF has numerous programs that focus on educating women, men and children on key family values, as well as social and economic programs for women’s empowerment and literacy.

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Bishop Sunday adds his signature to the Abuja Declaration signed by international delegates from over 20 nations pledging to “Create a strategic platform to promote universal principles for peacebuilding and our shared values as One Family under God.”

Since last year, the Global Peace Foundation has been working in Nigeria to counter the effects of religious extremism through promoting interfaith cooperation for peace and development. In November, a pivotal conference was held in Abuja where Christian and Muslim leaders and traditional rulers came together to build consensus on shared values and commit to working to tackle issues of identity-based conflict, poverty and education.

Now, more than ever, the role of true men and women of faith is needed to counter the hate and hurt propagated along religious differences and build a model of national and religious unity that can resound through the entire region.

Below is an excerpt from the address delivered by Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation at the Global Peace Leadership Conference in Abuja, Nigeria.

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…

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.

Go here for the full speech.

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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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Mrs. Aruna Chandaria, co-chair of the Chandaria Foundation signs the Abuja Peace Declaration.

At the close of the Global Peace Leadership Conference Abuja 2013, political leaders, media professionals, community and regional leaders as well as religious and tribal leaders from more than 20 nations signed the Abuja Peace Declaration for Peace and Development in Africa. They committed to creating a strategic platform to promote universal values for peacebuilding and our shared values as One Family under God. The Declaration formally launched the African Leadership Mission, a coalition of leaders, including former heads of African nations that pursue the action items on the Declaration, which include the following:

• • • • Promoting moral and innovative leadership
      • Developing character and creativity education
      • Generating community driven development and youth entrepreneurship initiatives
      • Fostering interfaith cooperation
      • Implementing other projects like Global Peace Festivals and regional youth and peace forums that express human solidarity

Faith leaders, including representatives of the Islamic Sultan of Sokoto, the Catholic archbishop of Abuja, and the head of the Nigerian Inter-faith Action Association, Bishop Sunday Onuoha, affirmed common values and a shared commitment to peace. Bishop Sunday drew applause when he declared: “We are all related!”

(Photo Credit: NewsIs)

This groundbreaking conference comes at a pivotal point in African development. Salamatu Hussaini-Suleiman, representative of the Economic Community of West African States, in her speech a day earlier, reminded the audience “Africa has the fastest-growing economies in the world, and that this is the time to reverse identity based hatred, insurgency and other disruptive security threats to the continent.” Dr. Moon encouraged African nations to chart a new course of economic and social development that avoids the mistakes of current developed nations.

During his closing remarks Dr. Moon marveled at Africa’s spirit and potential. “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.”

He called on participants to “take the first step” and make the Abuja Declaration their mission in life in order to secure a positive future for not only their nation, but for the continent of Africa. To a rising applause he urged, “Become the leaders of transformational change. And believe me, God’s abundant blessing will shine and a new tomorrow shall begin.”

The Global Peace Leadership Conference entitled, “Moral and Innovative Leadership: Building Sustainable Peace for a Prosperous Future” was held in Abuja, Nigeria from November 7-9.

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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.

 

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The Abuja Declaration was signed at the close of the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 held in Abuja, Nigeria by political, media, academic, religious, community, business and civic leaders from over 20 nations. The Declaration formally launched the African Leadership Mission, a coalition of leaders, including former heads of African nations that pursue the action items on the Declaration.

Representatives from over 20 nations signed the Abuja Peace Declaration for Peace and Development in Africa at the close of the Global Peace Leadership Conference 2013 in Abuja, Nigeria. (Photo credit: NewsIs)

Abuja Declaration for Peace and Development in Africa

ACKNOWLEDGING the sovereignty of Almighty God, the source of inalienable rights of all members of the human family, and the basis for the equality, dignity and intrinsic value of all people as One Family under God;

AFFIRMING the central role of universal moral principles and values that strengthen families, the basic building blocks of an equitable and prosperous society;

RECOGNIZING that without shared values there can be no peace: they represent a fundamental pre-condition to sustain development;

FURTHER RECOGNIZING that children and youth are positive sources of energy which can be directed towards developing competence to provide mentoring, volunteerism and selfless service to people;

AFFIRMING our commitment to the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights, the UN Millennium Development Goals, the African Charter, and the Sustainable Development Goals as well as new models of community-driven development;

We therefore, as African and international delegates from more than 20 nations with diverse cultural traditions, are determined to take charge of our destiny, and jointly proclaim our Resolutions to:

Article 1. Create a strategic platform to promote universal principles for peacebuilding and our shared values as One Family under God.

Article 2. Establish a joint mechanism for promoting moral and innovative leadership as a strategy for building Sustainable Peace for a Prosperous Future.

Article 3. Strengthen the Pan-African vision for promoting volunteerism and service through the African Peace Service Corps.

Article 4. Promote character and creativity educational programs to advance moral and innovative leadership, character competency and entrepreneurship as essential complements to intellectual development.

Article 5. Work collaboratively with the UN, government, the media, private sector and civil society organizations to promote innovative community-driven development and youth entrepreneurship initiatives.

Article 6. Promote interfaith, cross-cultural initiatives and innovative models that foster mutual understanding, respect, harmonious co-existence and peace.

Article 7. Promote Global Peace Festivals, regional and local forums as well as youth, sports, cultural and artistic projects as expressions of human solidarity.

Having understood and affirmed our commitment to further conflict resolution, development and sustainable peace, we hereby commit to support these goals and actions by affixing our signatures below and by forging innovative partnerships in the public, private and civil society sectors.

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Youth stand hand in hand at a Rivers for Peace clean-up in Kenya. The world’s young people demand a paradigm shift. The world is hungry for development models that encompass the entire human experience.

17-year-old Brittany Trilford from New Zealand addressed world leaders at Rio+20. “In this moment, I am all children, your children, the world’s three billion children. Think of me for these short minutes as half the world. I stand here with fire in my heart. I’m confused and angry at the state of the world and I want us to work together now to change this.”

She spoke for the sons and daughters of the human family who are frustrated by an uncertain future. Current development models have not ensured everyone’s well-being, nor have they cared for our earth. The world’s children demand a paradigm shift.

The world is looking for development models that encompasses the breadth and scope of the human experience. New trends, such as the “green economy,” reflect the departure from isolated economic growth for more comprehensive, balanced and sustainable perspectives. Development must consider the spiritual and social dimensions of humanity, and it must preserve everyone’s shared heritage, the rich resources of the earth.

Moments like Rio+20 are reminders that more is needed than material goods and services for better lives. As sustainable development is defined, there is a need to clarify humanity’s direction and create the future that all of humankind wants to see.

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