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Coverage of the Global Peace Convention 2014 came from around the world, from Korea to Columbia.

Coverage ranged from tough regional issues of democratization and the right to property, to global issues like the future of media and national transformation.

Below is a list of coverage from the convention.

Korean Media

American Media

Spanish Media

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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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The following is an unofficial English translation of an article that appeared in the Korean Business Daily featuring an interview with Global Peace Foundation Chairman, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon about Paraguay’s central role in Latin American development. The original article can be found at: http://news.mk.co.kr/newsRead.php?year=2014&no=906877

GPF Chairman Hyun Jin Moon “SOC* Enterprises will Pour in Millions Annually”

“Paraguay is a nation with potential for development of all of Latin America”

Korea – Business Daily (06-19-2014)
On June 19 (local time), editors and reporters of Korea Business Daily met with the Global Peace Foundation Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon in the Bourbon Convention Hotel in the capital city of Paraguay, Asuncion. Dr. Moon said that although Latin America has other more developed nations with larger populations like Brazil, Peru, and Argentina, “Paraguay has the most favorable environment for businesses.”

Dr. Moon emphasized that Paraguay will be the center for Latin America’s development.  “You cannot approach Paraguay as simply a single nation,” he said. “Because of its inexpensive energy and human resources, it will not only create wealth, but it will be a hub for development throughout Latin America.”
Dr. Moon is also working on efforts to mitigate political instability and social conflicts creating “national risk” that has been a hindering factor for economic development throughout Latin America. He said that “Paraguay, as a small nation with short history of democracy, is like a blank sheet,” and “a social transformation in Paraguay can expand to all of Latin America.”

The Global Peace Foundation is a non-profit social organization carrying out social change and peace activities in developing nations like Paraguay, Mongolia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Southeast Asia.

“Only 6 years ago when I first visited Paraguay, Dr. Moon explained, “the government had proposed a bill to confiscate land and the United States even listed Paraguay as one of the nations categorized as dangerous. However, today, it is standing at the center of transformation and even the surrounding, more powerful nations in Latin America are focused on Paraguay.”
ⓒKorea Maeil Business Daily mk.co.kr

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Global Peace Foundation – Paraguay volunteers and the Paraguayan Army deliver supplies to flood victims in Alto-Paraguay

Volunteers from the Global Peace Foundation – Paraguay,  Lions Club, local schools and the Paraguayan Army held a daylong Artistic Marathon to collect supplies for flood-stricken regions in Alto Paraguay. The event featured 300 students from 11 different schools in the area. Throughout the day, volunteers approached locals and surrounding residents for donations of clothing, toiletries, and non-perishable items.

Alto Paraguay has experienced constant flooding since the beginning of the year. Thousands of people have lost their homes. Roads have been damaged and construction projects have been stalled. Many parts the already remote regions of Alto Paraguay have become inaccessible. Indigenous families, who make up the majority of the population in the most remote areas of Alto Paraguay,  have been particularly hard hit.  They have lacked basic supplies like clean water and food.

An Army truck that the Paraguayan Army donated for the particular service project, delivered the supplies to families in Remancito, Puerto Falcón, and Bo. Del Niño Asentamiento of Hayes Village. This was one of many relief efforts that Global Peace Foundation-Paraguay has been involved in.

When Dr. Moon established the Global Peace Foundation in 2009, he introduced service as a means to an end. Not merely as an activity or program.

• Service taps into human creativity and new partnerships.
• Service opens unexplored solutions to long-standing problems.
• Service transforms relationships
• Service builds a global ethic based on universal values like altruism.

The response from the volunteers of the day of service illustrates that service is not merely an activity, but a tool for transformation. During a ceremony that recognized their service, volunteers from the supply-drive expressed their commitment to serve again with the Global Peace Foundation. Another volunteer described how serving helped him feel connected to the families struggling to recover from the flooding. The initiative also forged meaningful relationships with organizations like the Paraguay Army, the Lions Club of Haiyan Village, and the local schools to support ongoing volunteer efforts.

Volunteers recognized for their service.

Their testimonies demonstrate that service is a tool for long-term development and peacebuilding.

For the original article visit: www.globalpeace.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regional Potential

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

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

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

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

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

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Paraguay will host the 2014 Global Peace Convention.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seeking to achieve goals

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

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

This article originally appeared on www.globalpeace.org

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Korean businesses have partnered with Global Peace Foundation to implement social and economic development projects around the world.(top) Korean Security Depository employees before volunteering at the company sponsored Alllights Village in the Philippines. (middle) Korean and Latin American businessmen meet during the international conference on governance, ethics and development in Paraguay. (bottom) Kangwon Land Co. Executive Vice President Mr. Kimseo Seoung Won greets residents of the first High 1 Hope Village.

Over the past year, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) has formed numerous partnerships with Korean corporations to spearhead social responsibility projects. In neighboring South East Asian countries and Africa they have established Alllights Villages and the Love in Lights Foundation. This month, Kangwon Land Co. Ltd, and Global Peace Association-Nepal launched the High 1 Hope Village initiative. In June a delegation of Korean businessmen attended an international conference in Paraguay to explore prospects of investing in Latin American development.

In his article, “Business and third sector have much to learn from each other”, Mark Makepeace, CEO of FTSE writes, “An Alliance based on a core set of shared objectives can have a very tangible impact on the business itself.”

The same concept is operational in the United Nations Global Compact, a strategic policy initiative that fosters business partnerships with the United Nations. It states, “Business practices rooted in universal values can bring social and economic gains.”

If core principles are the glue that holds multiple sectors together, what core principles are bonding Korean corporations and GPF?

In an interview with Daily DongA, Global Peace Foundation Chairman, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon observed that social responsibility is an intrinsic part of Korea’s heritage. “The Korean founding mythology of Dangun and the philosophy of Hongik-ingan assert that Koreans are endowed by Heaven with responsibility to live for humanity.” He has encouraged Korea to step forward to mentor developing nations.

The 2008 global financial crisis left the world wanting new more sustainable and ethical models of development. Korea’s story has something to offer.

More than 60 years ago, the Korean War left the peninsula devastated. Social and spiritual reforms like the New Village Movement united the South Korean people.  Divisions of an aging feudal system came down and the Korean people worked together to build their nation. This transformation coupled with foreign investment and aid boosted Korea’s GDP per capital from $91 in 1961 to $1,746 in 1971. Today, Korea ranks 15th in the world’s economies and stands head to head with western nations as a member of the G-20.

In the same interview, Dr. Moon states that Korea stands in a rare position of opportunity to set a precedent of moral leadership in the world. If it revives these founding principles, starting with reaching out to its global community.

And the economic and social gains that Ban Ki-moon speaks of? Mr. Markpeace lists higher employee moral, better potential hires, and higher brand appeal. Dr. Moon has predicted that Korea can become a top 5 if not 3 economy in the world if it earns its a moral authority.

GPF Korea and its Korean business partners could be starting a new economic and social development trend based on the universal principles that are embedded in Korea’s founding philosophy that acknowledge fundamental human rights and dignity and the sanctity of the natural world.

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