Hyun Jin Moon Announces New Peace Initiatives in Paraguay

At the conclusion of a summit in Paraguay that was the first site of the Latin American Global Peace Festival, GPF President Hyun Jin Moon presented an ambitious program to translate the strategies and vision of young leaders into a series of impact initiatives.

Moon recognized the growing numbers of Young Ambassadors for Peace on every continent and called on them to take ownership of their aspirations as peacemakers.

"A vision and a dream without an owner is just an idea," he said. "Yet a vision and a dream that has an owner can transform the world."

YFWP executive vice president David Caprara says the young leaders' passion and professional expertise can be an essential asset. "In trouble spots like the Middle East, it is critical for a new generation to step forward with the courage to change the narrative of conflict to one of mutual respect and openness to the other side," Caprara said. "We have a historic opportunity to bring change, and we are looking to a new generation of leaders to step forward, with the support of progressive partners in government, civil society, and the faith community."

Moon also announced an international soccer initiative, Peace Dream, noting that sports competitions are an ideal means of breaking down historic barriers and building character through good sportsmanship that can translate into all spheres of life. Moon said character education initiatives are being supported by ministries of education and teachers across the world.

"Finally, Young Peace Ambassadors are joining forces with GPF on every continent to address UN Millennium Development Goals through measurable service programs," he said. "This peace police force can be deployed as an important new tool for emergency response as well as for longer-term critical needs."

A number of prominent leaders supported this call for innovative new approaches to peace building and international service. President Leonel Fernandez Reyna of the Dominican Republic, former President Rodrigo Alberto Carazo of Costa Rica, and former Speaker of the House Jose de Venecia of the Philippines emphasized the need for new approaches to problems in the hemisphere that can more fully engage the United States as a strategic partner.

About Global Peace Festival

Led by president Hyun Jin Moon, Global Peace Festival (GPF) promotes and celebrates persons and programs that contribute to reconciliation, mutual respect, harmony and cooperation among the members of the whole human family, as "One Family Under God." In partnership with a variety of faith-based organizations, NGOs, government agencies, educational institutions, and members of the private sector, GPF encourages programs that strengthen God-centered marriages and families, facilitate intercultural and interreligious cooperation, and foster a culture of peace and service. Ongoing programs are implemented throughout the year and culminate in a biennial Global Peace Festival that consists of an international leadership conference, a social impact program, and a public celebration.