KUALA LUMPUR—The 2013 Global Peace Convention kicked off in Kuala Lumpur on December 6 with a call from GPF chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon for the establishment of a faith-based Peace Council at the United Nations as a major initiative to meet the global challenge of identity-based conflict.

Bishop Sunday Onuoha, Executive Director of the Nigerian Interfaith Action Association (top) and Dr. Marsudi Syuhud, General Secretary of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization.

“Today, religious identities are regional in scope and appeal, spreading far beyond national boundaries,” he explained. That is something the existing UN is not well equipped to deal with and that a religious peace council could remedy.”

The Peace Council was part of a broader proposal for creating an international movement of interfaith cooperation to counter the threat of conflict on a global scale instigated by radical politicized versions of faith traditions. “The universal principles and shared values expressed in the world’s faith traditions … offer the antidote to the threat of global religious war,” Dr. Moon said.

The Convention opening addressed the three-day convention theme: “Unity in Diversity: Building Social Cohesion for Sustainable Peace through Universal Aspirations, Principles, and Values.” Participants from more than 40 nations observed a moment of silence for the passing of Nelson Mandela a few hours earlier while speakers reflected on the impact of his life which reached far beyond the usual boundaries of politics to embrace former enemies. Dr. Manu Chandaria called him “the heart of Africa” and said the continent was “poorer today without him.”

The Convention was greeted on behalf of Malaysian Prime Minister Najib, by Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, Minister of the Department of National Unity and Integration, which co-hosted the event. “Diversity is a big part of Malaysia’s DNA,” he said, quoting Prime Minister Najib. He called diversity a “blessing not a curse” and said that Malaysians were bound together by respect for their differences.

“The universal principles and shared values expressed in the world’s faith traditions … offer the antidote to the threat of global religious war.”

At the same time, he acknowledged that this idyllic picture was threatened by the unpredictability of politics. Religious bigotry and political name calling threatened the fabric of respect. He singled out the use of social media in particular to sow resentment and spread religious hatred.

“We have a moral responsibility to preserve our unity for future generations,” he concluded. “If we play politics with our future we will destroy what we have built.”

Former president Vinicio Cerezo of Guatemala (1986-91) and the first democratically elected president after 36 years of military dictatorship recounted the course to bring peace and democracy to his country and then peace to the Central American region. Wanting to strengthen the roots of democracy in the region led him into partnership with the Global Peace Foundation.

Out of the relationship the Latin American Presidential Mission has emerged, now comprising 20 former presidents from the region. They work to strengthen democratic principles and practices and to forge better relations with the United States.

Dr. Manu Chandaria, chairman and CEO of the Comcraft group highlighted the problems facing young people in Africa. He said that five million young people in Kenya with college or high school education cannot find jobs and commended GPF for providing a platform that nurtures a culture of service and volunteerism through initiatives such as the Africa Peace Service Corps.

He noted that Africa was rich in resources – in land, minerals, and, most of all, human resources. There were many hard-working people, yet a country like Kenya, which 50 years ago had a GDP similar to Malaysia, had now been left far behind. “What Africa lacks,” he said, “was transformative leadership.”

Paraguayan National Senator Lillian Samaniego (top) and Hajiya Mrs. Amina Sambo, wife of the Nigerian vice-president and founder of the NGO I Care – Women and Youth Initiative.

Hajiya Mrs. Amina Sambo, wife of the Nigerian vice-president and founder of the NGO I Care – Women and Youth Initiative, is the patron of the recently established Nigeria chapter of Global Peace Women. She said she had been inspired to partner with the Global Peace Foundation by Surah 49:13 in the Qu’ran that says “we have made you nations and tribes so that you may know one another.”

A second convening in the morning, “Universal Principles and Shared Values as the Basis for Unity and Diversity,” drew suitably diverse panelists, including Paraguayan National Senator Lilian Samaniego, Bishop Sunday Onuoha, Executive Director of the Nigerian Interfaith Action Association, Tan Sri Razali Ismail, Chairman of the Global Movement of Moderates Foundation from Malaysia, and Dr. Marsudi Syuhud, General Secretary of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization with more than 70 million members.

Sen. Samaniego noted the emerging role of women in leadership, “unimaginable in earlier generations but now becoming a reality,” and she urged that women who do assume leadership will send a message of tolerance and respect that must begin within the family.

“We can talk about shared values among those who are prosperous but we must not forget those who are marginalized, people who live on contaminated lands, who drink polluted water.”

Dr. Syuhud said unity in diversity was not simply an abstract idea in Indonesia but a principle of Indonesian nationhood. With thousands of islands, 737 local languages, and every major faith tradition, religious and cultural diversity is “a grace bestowed by God” and that NU was taking on “a singular role of promoting tolerance and respect for differences.” He outlined many steps that were mandated in Quranic teaching that positively affirm the diversity of human culture, tradition and faith as an means to “know one another.”

Bishop Onuoha spoke briefly but delivered a poignant film message on the deep respect religious leaders are held in Nigeria and the important ways in which Christians and Muslims in the nation of 170 million are collaborating in the fight against the real enemy—the mosquito, the spreader of malaria.

Tan Sri Razali Ismail said it was inspiring to hear about the human quest for peace and unity amidst diversity. “But when dealing with the reality of how things really are we come up against some difficult problems,” he added. “Economic theories and good intentions have not been able to reach many still living in abject policy and repressed by political violence. Is there compassion enough in national policy to deal with marginalized?

He said the criminal underworld was more sophisticated is Southeast Asia than anywhere, with human trafficking and other forms of oppression flourishing. “You think it is a Hollywood movie, but it is not,” he told participants. “We can talk about shared values among those who are prosperous but we must not forget those who are marginalized, people who live on contaminated lands, who drink polluted water.”

He concluded with an appeal for more committed and higher caliber leadership. Dependence on government is clearly not enough, he said, and it was time to agitate “from the bottom up” for reform and effective solutions to bring medicines and other necessities to the world’s marginalized.

The Global Peace Convention concludes on December 7 with an Awards Gala recognizing leaders who have contributed to peace, interfaith cooperation, and human development.

See more at: http://www.globalpeace.org/newsapp/global-peace-convention-calls-for-interfaith-cooperation-to-advance-social-cohesion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This proposition has implicit within it certain fundamental principles.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you and may God bless you and your families

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The Chandaria Innovation and Incubation Center, which opened on July 30, seeks to shift the output of university education from “job seekers to job creators”

On July 30, 2013, the Chandaria Business Innovation and Incubation Center was unveiled at Kenyatta University. The center promises an approach that seeks to redefine university education and open new opportunities for economic development.

Kenya’s latest unemployment rates are near 12 percent according to the Institute of Economic Affairs. The World Bank reports more than 800,000 people entering the job market, including university graduates, competing for 50,000 openings.

The center will support 50 student innovations and entrepreneurial ideas for a 6-12 month incubation period upon where it will be introduced into the market. The center was made possible in part by a substantial personal contribution from Dr. Chandaria. At the event, Dr Chandaria urged, “We need a nation which can produce results.”

At the unveiling, Oliver Mugenda vice-chancellor of Kenyatta University said of the project, “The aim of this programme is to create a shift from job seekers to job creators.” Minister of Trade Chirau Ali Mwakwere said the center will connect emerging entrepreneurs to the global market and create new sectors of economic growth.

Dr. Chandaria is no stranger to entrepreneurship. As the CEO of Comcraft Group, he took the small, family-run, aluminum pots manufacturer and built it into a billion dollar business that operates in over 40 countries.

On entrepreneurship Dr. Chandaria is quoted in Entrepreneurial Solutions for Prosperity in BoP Markets, by Eric Kacou saying:

“The essence of entrepreneurship is the fire in the belly, that drive. That is the key to open the constraints that are in your way. That is the key to open the doors that keep you inside instead of going out. You’ve got to walk to any destination.”

“The essence of entrepreneurship is the fire in the belly, that drive.”

In other words, successful business endeavors are driven by vision and leadership. Educating the future innovators is not merely about how much they know, but how much they are driven by a need to make a significant impact on their world.

Dr. Chandaria has also been a strong advocate of youth volunteerism as a means of cultivating “the fire in the belly” necessary for innovative solutions to current challenges.  During the launch of the African Peace Service Corps in 2012, Dr. Chandraria said, “This is what we want – that each of us must make sure that our children are not sitting home and just doing nothing. We would like to see each one of them give something.” For Dr. Chandaria, service is a means for unemployed youth to make meaningful contributions to society and develop professional skills.

As Kenya works through its current economic challenges towards Vision 2030, its development roadmap, wisdom like Dr. Chandaria’s is invaluable. Creating value in new markets requires not just innovation, but a sustainable driving force, a vision to serve humanity.

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Regional chairman of GPF-Africa, and CEO of Comcraft Group, Dr. Manu Chandaria reflects on the Kenyan presidential elections.

On Saturday, March 9^th, five days after the last poll was closed and the final ballots hand counted due to a glitch in the automated system, the winner of the Kenyan presidential election was announced. The election is not without some minor breakout of violence, but response systems kept it minimal. And, although the winner’s prominent contender contests the outcome, he will go through the courts to resolve the matter. Both sides urged for a peaceful resolution. Thus, Kenyans have delivered, as promised, a peaceful election.

The impact of this victory resounds beyond Kenya. Messages have streamed in from all over the world, congratulating Kenyans for their peaceful election, including countries like Denmark who had direct investments in the Kenyan election process. The Standard reported Executive Secretary, Ambassador Mahboub Maalim of the Intergovernmental Authority of Development (Igad), an organization that includes Kenya and seven of its neighbors, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda, praising Kenya for setting the precedent for itself and Africa, “the “high turnout and exemplary discipline on the 4^th of March polling day demonstrating to the region and the whole world their democratic maturity.”

Ambassador Maalim also gave special credit to government and non-governmental organizations, including the Global Peace Foundation. Prior to the elections Global Peace Foundation was a key player in organizing the National Youth Summit, that trained youth how to be “peace ambassadors” during the elections. It also pumped up Vote4Peace  and Vote4Kenya, a SMS campaign that engaged many prominent artists and radio DJs to push out the message of a peaceful election.  In addition, the Global Peace Foundation has been in the Rift Valley, the epicenter of the 2007 post-election violence, implementing various development and peace education projects.

Chairman of GPF-Africa Dr. Manu Chandaria observed that peace is becoming a core value in Kenya. He also was quoted saying, “All the political difference can be resolved I poverty is tackled among ordinary citizens and that can only be done by creating jobs.”

Future business prospects may be bright after this demonstration of Kenyan’s ability to uphold peace and stability. Kenya has shown that is has a dream that transcends tribal differences, and looks to a brighter future for itself, Africa and the world.

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As the National Youth Summit begins, it is fitting to recall the commitments made in 2010, and the vision that brought multiple sectors from all over the world together to define a Kenyan and African Dream.

Dr. Moon joins other leaders, Dr. Chandaria, Sir, James Mancham and Hon. Jose DeVenecia to sign the Nairobi Declaration.

At the close of the Global Peace Convention 2010, Heads of State and dignitaries from over 40 nations signed the Nairobi Declaration.

Dr. Moon said of the occasion, “I am stuck with the significance of this moment, a moment when a dream could be planted that sparks the imagination of a nation, region, continent and the world.”

The Nairobi Declaration, presented by the Global Leadership Council and Host Committee, is an affirmation of central principles of peace and a commitment to eight articles, action measures to secure peace and prosperity for the nation of Kenya and the continent of Africa.

To this day, the signers of that Declaration are carrying out the articles.  

Article 4, makes a particular commitment to developing and empowering youth. It affirms “Our resolution to work collaboratively with government, the business sector and civil entities to promote innovative community-driven development and youth entrepreneurship initiatives.” To this end the Global Peace Foundation, the Global Peace Youth Corps, and their partners have created youth initiatives for character competency, leadership development and entrepreneurship.

May the youth summit build on the recognition that “youth are an untapped source of energy which can be directed towards developing competence to provide peaceful service to nation.”

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 a stable and prosperous society;

RECOGNIZING that without shared values there can be no peace, and thus no way to sustain development;

FURTHER RECOGNIZING that the youth are an untapped source of energy which can be directed towards developing competence to provide peaceful service to nations;

Youth leaders also signed the declaration

AFFIRMING our commitment to the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights and the UN Millennium Development Goals as well as new models of community-driven development; We therefore, as African and international delegates from more than 40 nations with diverse cultural traditions, determined to take charge of our destiny, jointly proclaim our Resolutions to:

Article 1. Create the basis for lasting peace, as a fundamental condition for development, by promoting the universal principles and values all cultures aspire to as One Family under God.

Article 2. Strengthen the shared vision and alliances within the African Union to foster enhanced political and economic integration and collaborative peace-building measures, along with other regional economic blocs. Promote a Regional Peace Service Corps to address critical human needs.

Article 3. Promote character education programs to advance moral and character competency as essential complements to intellectual development.

Article 4. Work collaboratively with government, the business sector and civil society entities to promote innovative community-driven development and youth entrepreneurship initiatives.

Article 5. Promote interfaith and cross-cultural initiatives that foster understanding and social cohesion based on the common spiritual heritage of all people.

Article 6. Support grassroots conservation, health and agricultural programs, such as Rivers of Peace, that link service, responsible environmental stewardship, and peace.

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

Article 8. Establish an annual Head-of-State-sponsored Global Peace Convention to measure progress on peace and development initiatives and to advance new partnerships.

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Korea’s leading magazine Shin Dong-A, published a ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 in its New Year edition.The third section reported the historic launching of the Latin American Presidential Mission under the names of 19 former heads of state from Latin America. The January issue also ran the announcement of  Park Geun-hye’s presidential win, first woman president of the Republic of Korea.

See the original article in Korean.

Below is the unofficial English translation.

The Atlanta Declaration 2012 launched the Latin American Presidential Mission to promote hemispheric cooperation with North and South America under the names of 19 former heads of state.

GPC Atlanta 2012 Presents a New Paradigm for Global Peace

By Young Chul Choi ftdog@donga.com
Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Former Heads of State from North and South America Promote a Vision of Hemispheric Cooperation for Mutual Prosperity

During GPC Atlanta, 10 former Heads of State from 8 South American countries and delegations from 40-nations convened to launch a mission committed to a hemispheric Great Awakening in North and South America. An additional 8 former Heads of State from South America, who were not present, sent video messages of support. Together they launched a historic declaration, the Atlanta Declaration for Hemispheric Cooperation, resolving to use their past experience and leadership to work for the mutual prosperity of North and South America.

Based on its substantial Christian foundation, the American hemisphere has a common ethic.  However, North and South have walked disparate paths, harboring a protracted love-and-hate relationship. For example, the phrase ‘Down with American Imperialism’ became popular when anti-U.S. sentiments in South America peaked during the Falklands Wars, a territorial dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom (U.K.) when the U.S. sided with the U.K.

Over the past decade, vast numbers of Latin Americans have crossed the border into the United States to pursue the “American Dream”. Today, the Hispanic population in the U.S. has surpassed Blacks to become the largest minority. No longer can it be politically and economically disregarded. Resolving the discrimination and contempt towards the Hispanic population is critical to resolving the problem between North and South America.

The United States can no longer ignore the importance of Latin America. As the economic recession in the United States continues since the financial crisis in 2008, the fast-growing Latin American economic region could offer a way forward. Circumstances have prepared North and South America to redefine their relationship and secure peace and equality in the American hemisphere. In his keynote address at the GPC opening plenary, Dr. Moon called for a Hemispheric Great Awakening through North and South America based on a consensus of common spiritual values.   Dr. Moon noted, “North and South America have shared values that emerge from their common Christian heritage. Cooperation and unity should be based on these universal principles. This is how the western hemisphere can recover its moral authority and make positive impact around the world.”

Over the past two years, GPF in Latin America has promoted moral and innovative leadership and increased regional and hemispheric cooperation based on shared values. The results are reflected in two significant declarations, the Asuncion Declaration issued during the 2010 Global Peace Leadership Conference in Paraguay and the Brasilia Declaration pronounced in Brazil during the 2011 Global Peace Leadership Conference.  The Americas Summit commenced at The Carter Center and was integrated within GPC Atlanta. The summit sought to discover avenues for improved hemispheric relations based on shared values and common challenges for lasting peace and mutual prosperity for North and South America..

“the unity and integration of the Americas must be based on the recognition and respect of unique national and cultural identities, and that efforts should be directed at obtaining not personal advantages but a common advantage.” ~Atlanta Declaration for Hemispheric Cooperation The summit concluded with the establishment of the Latin American Presidential Mission. The declaration was published in the name of 19 former presidents. Built upon the recognition of the vision of “One Family Under God”, it affirms, “that the unity and integration of the Americas must be based on the recognition and respect of unique national and cultural identities, and that efforts should be directed at obtaining not personal advantages but a common advantage.”

Former Guatemalan president Vinicio Cerezo said, ”A leader has to have a special character, with thought and skill, but also deep moral conviction to follow a path marked by his principles.” He added, “In international relations and politics, the leader of each nation should not abandon his ethical values under any circumstances.”

 “The commitment of the United States is to the belief that fairness, not force should lie at the heart of our dealings with the nations of the world. If any agreement is to last, it must serve the best interest of both nations.” ~Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter

Dr. Jennifer McCoy, director of the Carter Center’s Americas Program, stressed ethics among nations quoting former President Jimmy Carter. “The commitment of the United States is to the belief that fairness, not force should lie at the heart of our dealings with the nations of the world. If any agreement is to last, it must serve the best interest of both nations.” Meanwhile, business leaders from around the world participated in the Global Peace Business Forum to discuss how trade and commerce can generate economic prosperity in North and South America, Africa, and the Iraq-Kurdish region. They agreed that the crisis of modern capitalism rooted in corruption and greed can be resolved through moral values and principles in business. Dr. Manu Chandaria, CEO of one of Africa’s largest businesses, Comcraft Group, received resounding applause when he said, “To offer economic opportunity to Africa is the realistic means to establishing world peace.”.

See all four sections of Shin Dong-A feature on GPC 2012.

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Two weeks ago, UPI reported on three Kenyans in Atlanta who assured, “Kenya next year will avoid the ethnic violence that tore the country apart during the 2007 elections.”

The statement references painful memories of post-election violence in 2007-2008 that Hon. Alfred Khangati said, “Brought our economy to its knees.”

Three Kenyans at the Global Peace Convention 2012, assured that Kenya’s next elections will be peaceful. Left to right, Dr. Manu Chandaria, Hon. Alfred Khangati, and Mr. Daniel Juma Omondi.

Over 1,200 deaths were reported. Tens of thousands more were displaced. Much of the violence was concentrated in the Rift Valley, a province outside of the capitol of Nairobi. Later studied traced the violence to long-standing social injustices, deep seated ethnic animosities,  and tribal divisions.

These men, Hon. Alfred Khangati, a minister from the Office of the President of Kenya, Mr. Daniel Juma Omondi, Chief Executive Officer of Nairobi’s Global Peace Youth Corps Kenya and renowned businessman and philanthropist Dr. Manu Chandaria, are approaching peace not just through politics and economics; but with the principles of peace and social cohesion. They were in Atlanta at the Global Peace Convention 2012 to present the best practices of the Rift Valley Peace Initiative.

Although it was officially launched in April of 2012, the Rift Valley Peace Initiative has been working on the ground since 2007 to address the root causes of the post-election violence. Dr. Chandaria OBE, EBS, chairman and CEO of the Comcraft Group, and member of the Global Peace Council, is a key player in the initiative. Dr. Chandaria has helped rebuild two primary schools in Mutate and Sasamua which were burned down during the riots, and is a patron of the National Youth Summit series. He explained his approach to ensuring peace, “The best way to reform mankind is through education of the children.”

The National Youth Summits are seeking to do just that. The summits are empowering Kenyan youth to take personal responsibility for their country’s future. The workshops are training the youth to be peace-builders. Young leaders are being equipped with vision, values of moral leadership, and skills such as communication, reconciliation and conflict management. This type of youth engagement is unlike 2007, where according to Mr. Omondi, unemployed youth were paid to incite violence. “Young people threw the stones,” said Mr. Omodi.

The National Youth Summits are empowering youth with character and leadership as well as engaging them in the civic process.

Last week the Nation Youth Summit convened for youth from the coastal region of Kenya. The regional summits are leading up to a National Youth Summit to be held in January 2013, prior to the elections. On December 19, Dr. Chandaria facilitated a meeting where the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) signed an MOU with Brand Kenya to sponsor the National Youth Summit.

Other efforts such as the East Africa Peace Service Corps (EAPSC) are addressing the issues of youth unemployment and education through volunteerism. During the Africa Conference on Volunteer Action for Peace & Development where the EAPSC was launched as part of the Volunteer Peace Corps, Dr. Chandaria said, “we need to change the mindset from one of what is in it for me, to one of service.” Dr. Chandaria explained that volunteerism is the “basis of our happiness,” and the means through which “to take action for peace and development.”

On December 17-18, the Kenyan Parliament and Kenya Private Sector Alliance convened the Speaker’s Round Table conference to deliberate Kenya’s preparedness for the general elections expected in March next year.

The event was streamed live on Kenya’s NTV. Current Kenyan president Mwai Kibaki said, “No fight will provoke or do any good for you. It is the best thing we can do for our nation to have a peaceful election.” Prime Minister Raila Odinga, meanwhile, urged sobriety in the political campaigns and Vice President Stephen Musyoka pledged, “This election will be peaceful.” The Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Mr. Issack Hassan appealed to the youth. He said while his commission was ready to deliver a free, fair and credible elections, it is up to the Kenyan youth to help.

Top commenter on NTV’s report of the Speakers Roundtable wrote, “ULTIMATELY it’s the ordinary Kenyan who makes the decision either to refuse to harm a FELLOW Kenyan for the sake of politics or to do so.”

The Dr. and Mrs. Chandaria received the Global Peace Award at the Global Peace Convention 2012.

With the emphasis on vision and values, programs like the Rift Valley Peace Initiative and the East African Peace Service Corps  are educating Kenyans to make good decisions.

Dr. Chandaria and his wife Mrs. Aruna Chandaria were awarded the Global Peace Award for Exemplary and Innovative Philanthropy for the extensive work they have done to enhance the quality of life for Kenyans.

UPI and NTV reports were referenced in this story.

Credit to Mr. Insu Choi, GPFF Africa, Regional Representitive

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Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon touched all areas of the human experiences, and left a mark in all sectors of society.   Tributes have come from all over the world, honoring his vision, life and work. They show the  the world that show the depth and breadth of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s contribution to humanity.

Tributes

Tributes and condolences have come from around the world that show the depth and breadth of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s contribution to humanity.

Below are some notable letters.

Members of the Global Leadership Council

Roberto Andersen, President of Instituto Univérsico de Pesquisa e Educação

Oscar K. Beauttah SS, International Board Member and Trustee, World Youth Alliance Africa

Dr. Manu Chandaria and Mrs. Aruna Chandaria, Chandaria Foundation

Dr. Vinicio Cerezo A., President of Guatemala (1986-1991), Founding Member, Fundación Esquipulas para la Integración Centroamericana

Hon. Bishop Manoel Ferreira, President, Int’l Convention of the Assemblies of God Ministry of Madureira

President Mwai Kibaki, President of the Republic of Kenya

Sir James Mancham, KBE

Dr. Osmar Lopes de Moraes, Attorney Parliamentary Chamber of Deputies of Brazil

Hon. Raila Odinga, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya

Hon. Lilian Sameniego, Leader of the Colorado Party, Paraguay

Dr. Robert and Donna Schuller

Tan Sri Datin Paduka Seri Hajah Zaleha Ismail, Chairman, Global Peace Festival Malaysia

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