Roadmap for National Transformation: Liberty Prosperity and Integrity through Moral and Innovative Leadership

Opening plenary (left to right): H.E. Horacio Cartes, President of Paraguay; Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Chairman of Global Peace Foundation; Hon. Lilian Samaniego, National Senator of Paraguay

More than 1,000 government, civil society and faith leaders from 40 nations assembled in Paraguay for a challenging debate and action agenda for national transformation in Paraguay, Latin America, and the developing world.

The first Global Peace Convention (GPC) hosted in Latin America, it is also the first to bring into focus the Global Peace Foundation’s comprehensive, values-based efforts to advance national renewal though grass-roots social development projects and political reform.

Paraguayan President Horatio Cartes, Vice President Juan Afara, Speaker of the Parliament Hugo Velazquez and fourteen former Latin American presidents joined GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin P. Moon at the historic opening session.

In his introductory remarks, Dr. Jose Altamirano, the President of the Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Soñada (IDPPS), a GPF supported research institute and co-sponsor of the Global Peace Convention, noted the movement away from “Madisonian” republican democracy toward a “Jeffersonian” direct democracy, and the critical need of an informed citizenry and moral leadership if democracy is to realize the promise of freedom and prosperity.

He said we all share the desire for good and aversion for bad, “but it is not okay to use any means to fulfill desires. To avoid justifications for misuse of freedom and authority, we need moral leadership. It is time to say ‘enough’, time to demand what is possible and doable within what is responsible.”

Paraguay’s progress in recent years “shows the foundational importance of principles and values, and their translation into initiatives that promote social transformation, leading to greater political and social stability.

Dr. Altamirano also warned that when religion becomes an end in itself, it can justify any crime by asserting divine approval. “So many wars are waged in the name of God, but are really caused by rage and resentment.”

Former Paraguayan President Wasmosy, a founding member of the Latin American Presidential Mission, outlines the vision of the Mission.

Former Paraguayan President Juan Carlos Wasmosy greeted the international participants on behalf of the Latin American Presidential Mission, a co-sponsor of the Convention and a project of the Global Peace Foundation to engage former democratically elected presidents of Latin America who are committed to social development and political reform in the region.

President Wasmosy, one of the founding members, gave a brief overview of the origins and vision of the Mission. He said the first occasion for former presidents to meet was at a 2010 Asunción conference sponsored by the IDPPS, which issued the Asunción Declaration at the conclusion. 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.” A later 2011 assembly in Brazil’s National Congress in Brasilia further underscored the principles outlined in the Asunción Declaration, and during this conference former presidents decided to establish a Latin American Presidential Mission. The mission was formally inaugurated in Atlanta, USA at the 2012 Global Peace Convention.

President Wasmosy also credited GPF Chairman Dr. Moon for emphasizing “the mentality of moral and innovative leadership, which should work for benefit of whole society and world, and be guided by universal values that can embrace the diversity of human family.”

Challenges and opportunities

In his keynote address, GPF Chairman Dr. Moon said that while many developing nations today are experiencing economic growth and greater democratization, they also face challenges of instability, inequitable development, and governments tainted by corruption. “How these challenges are met will have great significance for global peace and prosperity,” he said.

He also placed special emphasis on the demographic profile of much of the developing world which he contrasted with the aging populations, low birthrates, and dissolving families of the developing world.

Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Chairman of the Global Peace Foundation addresses the sixth Global Peace Foundation

“Youth present a great opportunity for the growing economies of the developing world,” Dr. Moon declared. “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.”

In his address he reflected on the social costs of material prosperity in many developed countries and said many nations are looking for alternatives to the Western development approach—“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.”

Crediting the host nation’s progress in recent years, Dr. Moon said Paraguay “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.”

The GPF chairman also related many of GPF’s social service, education, and economic initiatives in Paraguay that were guided by a vision of national renewal.

Asunción Mayor Arnaldo Samaniego, former President of the Democratic Party of Korea Lee Ki Taek, and Global Peace Foundation International President James Flynn also presented greetings to the assembly.

Following the opening session, former heads of state from Latin America—Presidents Juan Carlos Wasmosy, Luis Macchi, and Raul Cubas from Paraguay; Luis Alberto LaCalle and Jorge Batlle from Uruguay; Eduardo Duhalde from Argentina; Gustavo Noboa from Ecuador; Carlos Mesa and Jaime Paz Zamora from Bolivia;  Hipolito Mejia from the Dominican Republic; Rafael Calderon and Laura Chinchilla from Costa Rica; and Alvaro Colom and Vinicio Cerezo from Guatamala—joined in an extraordinary open forum moderated by Olinda Salguero, Executive Director of the Esquipulas Foundation for the Integration of Central America.

This historic gathering of former Heads of State touched upon many pressing challenges of ongoing poverty, organized crime, and political corruption in the region. But the former presidents continually spoke of the promise of youth.

Fourteen formers heads of state, joined by the sitting president and vice president of Paraguay, and representatives of the Global Peace Foundation, the Latin American Presidential Mission and think-tank IDPPS for a historic moment for Latin America.

”Latin America is the youngest continent,” observed former Guatemalan President Colom, reflecting the perspective of many of the presidents. “We should enable our youth to define their future. Latin American youth is our greatest treasure and if we don’t protect them from dictatorship and wars this region will go backward.”

The three-day Global Peace Convention includes panels in areas of interfaith cooperation, business as an agent of peace; community development and family strengthening; media’s role in promoting ethical societies; women and leadership; service and volunteerism; and developing a culture of peace through sports.

The Global Peace Convention concludes on November 21, with a Global Peace Awards gala honoring individuals in the areas of Interfaith, Family, Service and Scholarship.

The original article can be found at globalpeace.org

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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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“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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Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Chairman of the Global Peace Foundation interview with Kyung Hyang Newspaper.

During the recent international conference on “Governance, Ethics and Development” in Asuncion, Paraguay, Kyunghyang Newspaper writer JooYeon Park sat down with GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon. The following is a translation of her article printed at the end of June – a look at Dr. Moon’s thoughts on Korea as a model for economic and social development, Paraguay as the center of Latin American advancement, and spiritual principles and values as the force for sustainable peace.

Third son of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon says “Paraguay is the land of opportunity if Korean companies invest.”

Asuncion (Paraguay) | 박주연 jypark@kyunghyang.com
People and IssuesㆍUCI Group President Dr Hyun Jin Moon

On the opposite side of the globe, in Paraguay, he was the ‘VIP (國賓)’. When he traveled from place to place, he was escorted by a squad of police cars complete with blaring sirens.  He received warm welcomes from the incumbent president and former presidents of Paraguay, and  was invited to meet president-elect Horacio Cartes at his residence.  Cartes begins his term in August. The City of Asuncion presented him with a special recognition as a Distinguished Visitor. This man is UCI Group President and GPF Chair Dr. Hyun Jin Moon (44·pictured), third son of the late Rev. Sun Myung Moon of the Unification Church. UCI is a global organization established by the late Rev. Moon in 1977. It owns True World Foods, a major U.S. seafood distributor, Washington Times Aviation, and Ilsung Construction. Dr. Moon founded GPF, an NGO, in 2008 that implements inter-religious peace initiatives and social innovation programs in 22 developing countries including Paraguay and Kenya.

The international conference was held at Hotel Excelsior in Asuncion on June 10^th and 11^th, organized by IDPPS, a Paraguayan strategic think-tank for national development supported by Dr. Moon, and a coalition of former heads of states in Latin America. Geopolitically speaking, Paraguay is the heart of Latin America, but it is the poorest country in the region. The conference ultimately aimed to present a roadmap for the advancement of Latin America by boosting the economy through a transformation of Paraguay’s consciousness  and foreign investment. The conference convened 400 people, including 6 former heads of states from Guatemala, Colombia, Bolivia, and Paraguay, cabinet ministers of Paraguay, dignitaries from various sectors, and media. Participants from Korea included Woori Bank, Shin Financial Group, Korea Expressway Corporation, and Korail.

Dr. Moon was interviewed on the morning of the 12^th at Hotel Excelsior. He repeatedly emphasized the need for the Korean government and corporations to take an interest in the issues of world peace and Paraguay’s development. He preferred to speak in English rather than his limited Korean.

“Within 60 years, Korea was able to emerge from the ruins of war and become an economic powerhouse .  It can be a role model for many developing countries,” he said. “In order to enhance its global leadership, Korea needs to take an interest and invest in the region of Latin America. It is the second biggest bloc in the world with enormous resource and development potential,” he stressed.

The greatest outcome of this global conference is the consensus reached among the leadership of this region to eliminate feudalism, which is a prerequisite for progress in Latin America.

“In particular, Paraguay is bordered by Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia. Once infrastructure like roads, rail lines, and harbors are established, the country can become a gateway and hub in Latin America. Yet, the reality is there are still remnants of feudalism where small elites control the political, economic and social lives of their nations. This has contributed to widespread poverty, political instability and corruption. Until now, foreign investment has been deterred by these high-risk factors. However, in recent years the government has implemented new democratic procedures and the country has begun operating as a free market economy. In addition, the new government is highly interested in economic development and hopes to increase foreign investment. I am voluntarily serving as a mediator. I hope that Korean corporations can get a step up in the market.”

“The greatest outcome of this global conference is the consensus reached among the leadership of this region to eliminate feudalism, which is a prerequisite for progress in Latin America,” he continued.

“I shared my vision for Paraguay during my discussion with president-elect of Paraguay Horacio Cartes, two days ago. I made it clear to him that for the advancement of Paraguay he should look beyond the agriculture and energy industries. I emphasized that it is necessary to develop the service sector and value-added industries and to stimulate the education of this work force.”

He said, “We were able to test Paraguay’s potential in Puerto Casado, in the Chaco region of Northern Paraguay. The results were quite fruitful.” Puerto Casado, a small city populated by 6,000 people, is one of the poorest areas in Paraguay and has been historically afflicted by corruption and crime. GPF and IDPPS have been engaged in numerous community programs that involve local residents including poverty eradication projects like creating a fish farm and organic vegetable farm, reform movements, and city beautification since 2008. So far jobs have been created for 800 families and the city has been revived.

Dr. Moon wants to be regarded as ‘spiritual leader.’ He talked about the Unification Movement and his father, but declined to comment further on the situation of the current Unification Church, which is going in a direction different from his, or the contentious topic of succession. He remarked, “Some Unification Church leaders with ill intentions are creating problems. They manipulated media to their advantage. They blame my father and come up with sensationalized stories of sibling strife like the “Revolt of the Princes”, in order to  drive me and my brothers out of the Unification Church, but it is not true.”

Then, what world does he dream of building? He says his dream is to fulfill the vision of One Family under God. That is to create a peaceful happy world that is not divided by religion, race, and national borders.

For the original article in Korean visit: Kyunghyang Shinmun

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Global Peace Foundation Chairman Hyun Jin Preston Moon addresses a conference on Governance, Ethics, and Development in Asunción. – See more at: http://www.globalpeace.org/newsapp/paraguay-conference-draws-former-latin-american-heads-of-state-for-dialogue-on-governance-ethics-and?A=SearchResult&SearchID=7265552&ObjectID=6726448&ObjectType=35#sthash.0F5uLj7g.dpuf

Through July and August, 8 Latin and Central American countries celebrate their independence day. The recent conference on “Governance, Ethics, and Development” affirmed that Latin America is on a verge of an era of stability and economic opportunity.

In his address at the conference opening plenary, Dr. Moon observed that although both Americas were settled by explorers carrying dreams of spiritual and economic opportunities, the stories of North and South America “unfolded differently with real qualitative and quantitative consequences for their peoples.”

The first 13 states that became the United States of America began as British colonies. Riding the waves of the Renaissance and Reformation, Great Britain had made strides to becoming a constitutional government that recognized the rights of every free Englishmen. The founding fathers of the United States drew upon these precedents to embark on their bold experiment: to build a nation that recognized and protected the rights and value endowed by the Creator to all men, a nation ruled by the people and for the people.

South America, however, took on the culture and political structures of the Iberian Peninsula. It became a bastion of old Europe; and to this day, feudalistic remnants are present: small elites control the social, political, religious and economic lives of the nation, with an ever present gap between the rich and poor.

A Latin American awakening would shake off these outdated vestments and make way for nations to emerge centered on time-tested principles such as God-given universal human rights and living for others.

These values are not foreign, to Central and South America.  Many nations are deeply spiritual, recognizing the pervading presence of God in their private and public life. Nations like Paraguay have embraced their indigenous and immigrant cultures.

Dr. Moon urged former, current and incoming presidents of Latin America to forge a road map for national development in Latin America based on values and principles.  As numerous countries celebrate their independence days, it is an appropriate  to affirm the core principles upon which they can and open an era of new social and economic opportunities.

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Transcription : Hyun Jin Moon Speech

2013 June 14| Inter-religious Forum, Asuncion, Paraguay

The Global Peace Foundation-Paraguay and the Ministry of Culture and Education of Paraguay co-sponsored an inter-religious gathering on June 14th, where Dr. Moon delivered the following address, stressing the need for religious leaders to work together centered on common universal principles like living for the sake of others.

Honorable Minister of Education, distinguished religious leaders, ladies and gentlemen. It is a distinct honor and great pleasure to be here in this beautiful land of Paraguay, which I consider my second home, here in the middle of the Americas.

Why is it that I see such hope in this small nation in Latin America? In 2008, I came to Paraguay, a nation I had never visited before, at the urging of my father, because the government of Paraguay was about to expropriate land that we had bought in Puerto Casado.

Also, our movement was under severe persecution, so actually my introduction to Paraguay was not a rosy one, but was on the foundation of great difficulty. When I first came here I met with then President Nicanor Duarte. We had a one and a half hour meeting, and I said to him that the most important thing for any truly great and free democratic nation is that it is rooted in principles and values— not just any principles and values, but spiritual principles and values.

I said that in the modern era, for the first time in human history, we take for granted concepts such as fundamental freedoms, fundamental human rights. This is because in this hemisphere a nation chose to challenge a world that was filled with monarchies and  absolute rulers.

As human beings, we are not given our freedoms and rights by any government institution or by any other human being. Those rights are conferred by God. And those rights are inalienable. We know that the document that affirmed those rights was the U.S. Declaration of Independence in 1776. The Declaration became an inspiration for a revolution  whose ideas have since advanced throughout the world—that human beings are sons and daughters of God, with innate human dignity, innate human rights, innate dreams, not conferred by any government institution.

The Declaration of Independence goes on to say that the purpose of government is to protect those rights, and that if government infringes on those rights, it is a right of the people to get rid of the government and establish another that protects them. Thus, In North America, we have a democratic, free-market nation that respects the rule of law and recognizes the importance of those principles. The southern hemisphere, however, has had a very different experience. Although you have had independence movements which sought to develop regional states and laws very much like North America, many of those independence movements fell apart. The nations that were ultimately established were reflections of old Iberian peninsula traditional cultural patterns.

Therefore, democracy and the free-market system here in Latin America were not as inclusive as democracy and free-markets in North America. I am not here to talk about the development of democracy, but I do want to make the point very clearly  that in order to build a great nation, it starts with spiritual principles, and recognition of where those spiritual principles come from.

What truly moved me when I came to Paraguay was that the mention of God, even in the civic square, was not something unusual or something one should be ashamed of. It was expected! If you do not mention God, if your faith is not projected in the civic square, you are considered strange. Unfortunately in North America, as well as other developed nations of the world, faith, especially the recognition and mention of God in the civic square, is less and less prevalent and even considered unusual. This nation, however, has not forgotten or abandoned God.

This is a nation that is not ashamed to recognize the centrality of God in daily life, nor the importance of spiritual principles and values that animate and articulate the life of its citizens. This is a nation that is proud of its heritage, but more importantly, proud of its faith. That faith is making a positive contribution in communities, in the nation, and eventually will do so in the world.

When I came here and met the Paraguayan people, I realized how special this nation is. I saw that it was a nation of faith and true to its commitment to God. I thought that when connected to the great opportunities of the world, Paraguay, once called the “Basket Case” of Latin America, could be a “city on a hill” and a beacon of hope for all people of faith around the world. This can be the beginning of a revolution.

That is why it was a simple decision for me to make in 2008, a landmark year for the Global Peace Foundation. We had festivals in 24 nations, on six continents around the globe. Yet, it was not difficult for me to decide that the first festival should be here in Paraguay! The message and vision that I articulated then was the vision of Uno Familia bajo Dios!

That revolution of spirit started here, in Asuncion, Paraguay. Yet, I believe that today’s event is actually the most important. Because I’m not talking to business leaders. I’m not talking to political leaders. I’m not talking to civic leaders. I’m talking to religious leaders, who should be the conscience of the nation. Faith leaders need to demonstrate the moral authority that can remind citizens of this nation’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage and encourage people to remain faithful in attendance to God. It is through Him that the nation of Paraguay can fulfill its national destiny.

I have always believed that this nation is the womb of Latin America. As the movement for the liberation of this continent started here in Paraguay, so the voice of liberation, the voice of a great spiritual awakening, should start here in Paraguay and spread throughout the entire hemisphere. This is your charge; this is your mission. This should be your life’s devotion.

As people of faith, let us come together on the common platform of universal principles and values, and on a common vision to build one family under God. Then we can celebrate our differences and diversity, but at the same time, in purpose and in principles and values, stand in solidarity and build an exemplary nation that can help reform this continent and hemisphere.

As people of faith, we all believe in true love, living for the sake of others. This should be our common value, to live for the sake of each other and for the sake of our communities, for the sake of our nations, for the sake of this hemisphere, and for the sake of the world.

This is a special moment, yet, for this nation to be guided properly to its special destiny within the providence of God, it needs leaders. More than political leaders, more than civic leaders, more than business leaders this nation needs spiritual leaders. It needs leaders of faith who can remind the Paraguayan people that, regardless of whatever heights this nation reaches, we are a people who believe in God and the destiny of this nation is to be the womb of the continent and to give birth to a new Great Awakening.

Based upon the vision of One Family under God, and rooted in spiritual principles and values of living for the sake of others, Paraguay can move this entire hemisphere. And that hemispheric Awakening then should extend across the Pacific and the Atlantic, spreading the vision, planting seeds of hope and faith. It was said by a great man that if one person has a dream, that dream is fleeting. But if a 1,000 people dream that dream, it can change the world. This is a time, my Paraguayan brothers and sisters, that through you and your leadership, the seeds of the dream can be planted that can transform this nation, this continent, this hemisphere, and the world. And that dream is Uno Familia Bajos Dios.

I know that whatever blessings God gives this nation, this nation will be in good hands, in the hands of people of faith and conviction and with the quality of heart and mind to embrace not only Paraguayan people but all Latin America, the entire hemisphere, and the world. Thank you very much.

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Latin American Presidential Mission published its June report.

In its June report,the Latin American Presidential Mission covered the recent conference on “Governance, Ethics and Development” held in Asuncion, Paraguay from June 10-13.

The conference addressed critical issue of Latin American Development such as:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. The importance of international investment and economic endeavors in Latin America
               2. The challenges of democratic consolidation
               3. Development and regional democratic sustainability
               4. Economic integration with ethics without ideological prejudices
               5. And investment in social development.

The report also has candid photos of the Day of Peace in the Chaco commemoration where the former presidents of Paraguay (Juan Carlos Wasmosy) and Bolivia (Carlos Mesa) embraced in peace and brotherhood, and the impromptu trip to the Itaipu Dam development project, courtesy of former President Wasmosy.

Five former presidents, members of the Latin American Presidential Mission, offered their experience, testimony and leadership to foster international cooperation and regional development.

Read the report in Spanish: http://misionpresidencial.com

Or download the full Latin American Presidential Mission Report on the International Conference.

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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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