“Nuclear Records as Global Heritage”: Discussing the Preservation of Peace Legacy through Scientific Data and Collective Memory

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) held the 2nd Pacific Nuclear Legacy Human Rights Webinar online on May 9 under the theme “Nuclear Records as Global Heritage: Securing Peace in a Changing Climate.”

The webinar was organized as a follow-up discussion to the first Human Rights Webinar, “Nuclear Legacy: Enduring Impacts in a Changing Climate,” held on February 28. While the first webinar highlighted the impacts of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands as an ongoing human rights, environmental, and security concern, the second webinar discussed how records, testimonies, and community memories of Pacific nuclear testing can be recognized as global heritage and preserved as a peace legacy for future generations.

The event brought together legal, civil society, religious, educational, media, and youth representatives from various regions, including Fiji, Belgium, Zambia, Malawi, and South Korea, to share the significance of preserving nuclear records and the need for international cooperation

.

In his congratulatory remarks, the Honorable Thushara Rajasinghe, High Court Judge of the Judiciary of the Republic of Fiji, emphasized that “nuclear records are more than just historical documents,” describing them as “powerful testimonies of human suffering, resilience, and the urgent need to prevent future nuclear devastation.” Mr. Andy Vermaut, Founder of Fundamental Rights Organization PostVersa in Belgium, stated that climate change and rising sea levels are threatening the evidence and memory of nuclear testing, adding that declaring nuclear records as global heritage means refusing “to let the truth sink beneath the waves.”

The first session discussed the roles of civil society, religious communities, educators, and the media in preserving records and memory. Mr. Godfrey Kaoma, Assistant Director of National Guidance and Religious Affairs under the Office of the Vice President of Zambia, said, “Truth is preserved not only through written records, but also through lived testimony and spiritual teachings,” emphasizing that preserving records is not only about the past, but a responsibility for future generations.

Mr. Olaf Sanga, Head Teacher of Njamba Secondary School in Malawi, spoke about the importance of addressing nuclear legacy in education, saying that “students should know how human desire for advancement and power can destroy the earth.” Mr. Andrew Junior Mwima, a youth representative from Zambia, said, “To my generation, the word ‘heritage’ usually sounds like a museum, but when we talk about the Pacific Nuclear Legacy, heritage isn’t a museum; it’s a crime scene that hasn’t been fully cleaned up.” He emphasized that the younger generation seeks peace not through silence, but through accountability.

Mr. Ousman Kaliati, a journalist from Times Group in Malawi, addressed the role of the media, stating that journalists have a responsibility to disseminate information on global issues such as nuclear legacy. He noted that while reporting can sometimes escalate conflict, it can also shed light on the realities of affected regions and help call for necessary support.

In the second session, Mr. Martin B. Kalinowski, Coordinator of Peace Science Collaboration and former official of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), delivered a presentation titled “Data from Past Nuclear Tests.” He explained that more than 2,000 nuclear tests have been conducted worldwide since 1945, with large-scale atmospheric nuclear tests concentrated particularly in the Pacific region. He also stressed that the impacts of nuclear testing are not limited to health consequences, but also include forced displacement, economic losses, psychological trauma, and other social consequences. He highlighted the importance of independent scientific analysis and the use of modern data in achieving justice for affected communities.

As areas for collaborative action, Kalinowski proposed the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) to ban nuclear testing, the preservation of nuclear testing memory at both international and local levels, and the need for a “co-expertise process,” through which affected communities and experts can work together to understand and manage radiation risks. In his closing remarks, he said he was impressed that participants did not close their eyes to the issue, but sought to raise awareness. Mr. Harrison Phiri, Station Manager of Radio Delight Kwitonta in Zambia, shared that the webinar helped him realize that individuals can also contribute to peace by supporting the digital archiving of nuclear records and preserving photos and oral histories.

Through this webinar, HWPL seeks to transform the records and testimonies of nuclear testing harm in the Pacific into educational and peaceful assets, in line with Article 10 of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), which emphasizes the spreading of a culture of peace. By doing so, HWPL aims to contribute to preserving historical truth, preventing the suffering caused by nuclear testing from being forgotten or repeated, and establishing a peace legacy that protects the rights and safety of future generations.

HWPL is an international peace NGO working with partners in civil society, education, youth, women, religious communities, media, and various other sectors around the world to promote peace education, interfaith dialogue, and the spread of a culture of peace. Based on the DPCW, HWPL continues its efforts to strengthen international cooperation for peace and the protection of future generations.

However, most of these records are either surveys from a specific period, historical compilations written after a ruler’s death, or collections of various official documents.

In contrast, the Seungjeongwon Ilgi, the Diaries of the Royal Secretariat stands out as an exceptionally rare case in world history, documenting the operation of government and the flow of society on a near-daily basis over 287 years. Beyond conversations between kings and officials, the records meticulously documented climate conditions, disasters, disease outbreaks, agricultural affairs, and the daily lives of ordinary people. As such, it transcends the role of a royal chronicle and functions as a living national archive that captures the multidimensional movement of an entire society.

For this reason, international scholars today regard the Seungjeongwon Ilgi as one of the most extensive and sophisticated continuous administrative records in human history.

The Seungjeongwon, or Royal Secretariat of the Joseon Dynasty, was responsible for managing royal decrees and reporting state affairs, functioning in many ways similarly to a modern presidential secretariat. The Seungjeongwon Ilgi contains detailed records of political discussions, diplomacy, disasters, administration, and public affairs.

It is therefore regarded not merely as a historical account of kings, but as a vast “database of state governance” that reveals how an entire nation functioned.

The Continuity and Transparency of Records

The greatest value of the Seungjeongwon Ilgi lies in its continuity and transparency. The Joseon Dynasty viewed the systematic recording and preservation of governance not as an option, but as a fundamental responsibility of the state.

Importantly, the records did not focus solely on the glory of the monarchy. They also documented famines, epidemics, political conflicts, and administrative shortcomings with notable realism, giving the archive exceptional historical value.

This is precisely why modern international society emphasizes the importance of public transparency and national archives. Records are not merely tools for preserving the past; they are essential mechanisms for maintaining social accountability and collective memory.

The fact that political, social, cultural, and environmental changes were continuously documented over such a long period makes the Seungjeongwon Ilgi an extraordinarily rare case globally. As a result, the archive has become an invaluable source not only for Korean history, but also for the study of East Asian society and the broader development of human civilization.

Today, surviving volumes of the Seungjeongwon Ilgi span from the third lunar month of 1623, the first year of King Injo’s reign, to 1910, the fourth year of Emperor Sunjong’s reign. In September 2001, the records were inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. UNESCO recognized the archive as an important documentary heritage that should be preserved and shared by all humanity.

This recognition signifies that the Seungjeongwon Ilgi is no longer merely a historical record of Korea, but part of the collective memory of humankind.

UNESCO Memory of the World - Seungjeongwon Ilgi, the Diaries of the Royal Secretariat

Ayoung K.

As the climate crisis places the records and traces of Pacific nuclear testing at risk of disappearance, preserving the truth of nuclear testing is gaining attention as an international task to protect the rights and peace of future generations.

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) will host the 2nd Pacific Nuclear Legacy Human Rights Webinar online on May 9 under the theme “Nuclear Records as Global Heritage: Securing Peace in a Changing Climate.”

The upcoming webinar is organized as a follow-up discussion to the first Human Rights Webinar, “Nuclear Legacy: Enduring Impacts in a Changing Climate,” held on February 28.

The first webinar brought together experts and civil society representatives from the Pacific, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, highlighting that the impacts of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands are no longer an issue confined to one region, but a human rights, environmental, and security concern that requires a collective response from the international community.

In particular, the webinar addressed how the 67 nuclear tests conducted in the Marshall Islands between 1946 and 1958 have left continuing impacts, including radioactive contamination, forced displacement, destruction of livelihoods, health consequences, and cultural loss. It also raised concerns that climate change, including sea level rise and coastal erosion, could further intensify existing nuclear contamination and related harm.

Building on the first webinar, which reframed nuclear legacy as an ongoing human rights crisis, the second webinar will further discuss how records, testimonies, and community memories of Pacific nuclear testing can be recognized as global heritage and preserved as a peace legacy for future generations.

The upcoming event will examine the historical context of Pacific nuclear testing and the moral obligation to preserve the truth of the region. It will also explore ways for civil society, educators, media, and international partners to cooperate in safeguarding the Pacific’s collective memory and transforming it into an asset for peace education.

In particular, Martin B. Kalinowski, Coordinator of Peace Science Collaboration and former official of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), will address how modern scientific data can be combined with historical evidence from the Pacific to establish nuclear records as an unchangeable legacy of evidence and global heritage.

Through this webinar, HWPL seeks to transform the records and testimonies of nuclear testing harm in the Pacific into educational and peaceful assets, in line with Article 10 of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), which emphasizes the spreading of a culture of peace. By doing so, HWPL aims to contribute to preserving historical truth, preventing the suffering caused by nuclear testing from being forgotten or repeated, and establishing a peace legacy that protects the rights and safety of future generations.

HWPL is an international peace NGO working with partners in civil society, education, youth, women, religious communities, media, and various other sectors around the world to promote peace education, interfaith dialogue, and the spread of a culture of peace. Based on the DPCW, HWPL continues its efforts to strengthen international cooperation for peace and the protection of future generations.

[Event Information]

1. Title: Nuclear Records as Global Heritage: Securing Peace in a Changing Climate

2. Date: May 9, 2026 (Saturday)

3. Time: 08:00 UTC

• 10:00 Africa, Europe

• 17:00 Korea (KST)

• 19:00 Solomon Islands

• 20:00 Fiji, Marshall Islands

4. Platform: Online via Zoom

https://zoom.us/j/92719793064

5. Registration Form

https://forms.gle/zrVeKKutiv73fK1t7

6. Facebook Event Page

https://www.facebook.com/share/1bMtz4Um24/

The Hunminjeongum Manuscript (Haerye Edition), inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in 1997, is more than just a guidebook for a national script; it is a document that marks a monumental turning point in human history. Recently, the global academic community has been revisiting the value of this record through the lens of the “Democratization of Knowledge.”

The Genesis of the Democratization of Knowledge Rooted in “Love for the People”
At the heart of the Hunminjeongum Manuscript lies the principle of “Information Equality.” In the 15th century, Chinese characters were the exclusive property of the ruling class; knowledge was power. King Sejong, feeling deep compassion for commoners who suffered injustice because they could not read, created a 28-letter alphabet that was easy to learn. This act is regarded as the first instance of the “Democratization of Knowledge” in human history, transforming knowledge from a privilege of the elite into an asset for the masses. The declaration in the manuscript’s preface—”I wish for the people to be able to express their thoughts with ease”—anticipated the modern democratic value of “Equal Access to Information” by 500 years.

UNESCO’s Focus on the Values of Literacy and Human Rights
The decisive reason UNESCO selected this manuscript as a world heritage is that the scientific design of Hangeul is inherently directed toward “Universal Human Rights.” The manuscript proves the script’s superior accessibility, stating, “A wise man can learn it in a morning, and even a simple man can learn it within ten days.” UNESCO recognized this very point—the enhancement of literacy and the intellectual empowerment of the masses through an accessible script—as a universal leap forward for humanity.

A Symbol of Global Literacy: The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize
The spirit of Hangeul continues to set international standards today. In 1989, UNESCO established the “UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize” to honor the noble intent behind the creation of Hangeul. Awarded annually to individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the fight against illiteracy worldwide, this prize serves as a testament to UNESCO’s official recognition of Hangeul as the ultimate tool for dispelling ignorance and expanding the right to communication.

The Purpose of Technology Must Ultimately Be “People”
Had the manuscript not been miraculously discovered in Andong, South Korea in 1940, the scientific and philosophical foundations of Hangeul might have remained shrouded in mystery forever. Thanks to the selfless efforts of collector Kansong Chun Hyung-pil, who risked everything to protect these 33 pages, this record has now become a precious database for the entire world. The spirit of the Hunminjeongum transcends its 500-year history, offering a timeless lesson to us living in the high-tech era: “The ultimate purpose of technology must be people.”

Ayoung Kim

Peace In Your View is an initiative developed under HWPL’s efforts to realize Article 10, Spreading a Culture of Peace, of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).

By conducting in-depth interviews with individuals actively contributing to peace, the project seeks to illuminate diverse perspectives, experiences, and philosophies. Through stories shared by leaders, practitioners, and community members from various backgrounds, Peace In Your View aims to inspire readers to reflect on how they can promote peace, inclusion, and social cohesion in their own communities.

Born in Eastern Tibet and now rooted in Belgium, Buddhist leader Ranyak Patrul Rinpoche offers a profound remedy for the nihilism and division of the modern age: “inner education” and “interreligious dialogue.” We met him at Dharma City, his study center in Belgium, to discuss the path toward genuine peace.

Q1. Could you introduce yourself and share what brought you to Belgium?

I was born in Eastern Tibet, where I spent the first 30 years of my life. My journey eventually took me through India and Nepal before I settled in Europe nearly three decades ago. Today, I am a Belgian citizen.

My daily work involves two main paths: the academic side through my publishing house, Wisdom Treasury, and the spiritual side through Dharma City, a center dedicated to Buddhist philosophy. From a Buddhist perspective, my arrival in Belgium wasn’t a calculated plan but rather the result of karma—the conditions of life. Sometimes you aim for the East but end up in the West; I am simply happy that conditions brought me here.

Q2. What was the core motivation behind founding “Dharma City”?

I’ve observed that while modern society has achieved incredible material progress, many people still feel an internal void. There is a saying that material wealth cannot buy true happiness. You might see a person with very little singing in the sunshine, while a millionaire cries in a palace.

Dharma City was founded as a space for “inner education.” I wanted to create an environment where people could study Buddhist philosophy deeply—not just as a religion, but as a tool to investigate the mind and learn how to create harmony. We transformed an old farmhouse into this center so students could have a place to stay, reflect, and engage in dialogue with other faiths, such as the local Christian communities.

Rinpoche speaks with a gentle humility that makes even complex ideas feel accessible. He often emphasizes that peace begins with small, everyday actions—how we speak to our neighbors, how we understand our family members, and how we govern our own mind.

Q3. Many today struggle with depression, nihilism, and social division. What do you see as the root of these crises?

This is a profound issue. Today, many rely solely on material and scientific views. When one believes only in the physical brain, they often conclude that death leads to “nothingness.” This view can breed hopelessness and anxiety, especially as we age.

But even religious people sometimes depend too much on something external—a deity, a creator, or even the Buddha. Both extremes, nihilism and externalism, arise from not understanding the nature of mind.

In Buddhism, we believe suffering and peace do not originate from the outside; they arise from the mind. Emotions like anger and anxiety are internal products. Without inner understanding, people focus strictly on “you and me” and self-protection, which naturally leads to division. The more we develop materially without corresponding mental development, the more problems we seem to invite.

Rinpoche also highlights the importance of dialogue between religion and science. Many of his students with scientific backgrounds find that Buddhist teachings on the mind, causes and conditions, and emotional awareness complement their studies and help them understand how to work with anger and fear.

Q4. How does the Buddhist concept of inner peace scale up to global or social peace?

Peace cannot remain isolated within an individual. It requires education and dialogue so we can understand how our actions ripple through society. To achieve social peace, we must learn three things:

• How to govern ourselves

• How to understand the needs of others

• How to act with genuine compassion

Rinpoche explains that social harmony begins with awareness of how our behavior affects those around us. If we act selfishly, we disturb our neighbors; if we understand their needs, harmony becomes possible. This principle applies to families, communities, and nations alike.

Reflecting on Europe’s history, he notes that after the Second World War, many Europeans rejected violence. But as time passes, societies forget the suffering caused by war, and conflict begins to re-emerge. “That is why continuous education and dialogue are essential,” he says.

Q5. As a religious leader in Belgium, what is your ultimate goal?

My strongest wish is to foster more organized cooperation among different groups in Belgium. Currently, many communities live in isolation, which makes unity difficult. I want to keep building opportunities where people of all backgrounds can meet, introduce themselves, and work together for the collective benefit of the world.

For the past several years, I have also organized an annual “World Peace Prayer,” inviting Buddhist communities of all traditions—Tibetan, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and others—to gather at Dharma City. There is no distinction of lineage or rank; anyone who wishes to come can join in praying for world peace. Although reaching other religious communities has been challenging, I hope this event will grow into a broader interfaith gathering.

Closing Reflection

Ranyak Patrul Rinpoche’s message is a reminder that peace is not a passive state, but an active practice of the mind. By shifting our focus from external accumulation to internal cultivation, we begin to build a more harmonious world, one thought at a time.

· Interviewer: Stella Seong, Coordinator of Religious Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch
· Interviewee: Ranyak Patrul Rinpoche, Founder of Dharma City in Belgium

This interview has been edited and finalized by the Public Relations Department of HWPL Global 08 Branch.

게시물 [Peace In Your View] “Inner Peace: The Bedrock of Social Harmony” – A Conversation with Ranyak Patrul Rinpoche이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

Peace In Your View is an initiative developed under HWPL’s efforts to realize Article 10, Spreading a Culture of Peace, of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). By conducting in-depth interviews with individuals actively contributing to peace, the project seeks to illuminate diverse perspectives, experiences, and philosophies. Through stories shared by leaders, practitioners, and community members from various backgrounds, Peace In Your View aims to inspire readers to reflect on how they can promote peace, inclusion, and social cohesion in their own communities.

Living the Responsibility of Peace in Zambia

In the heart of Southern Africa, religious leaders in Zambia serve as the moral compass for a diverse society.
Apostle Dr. Evans K Kaping’a, President of the Apostles Council of Churches in Zambia (ACOC), leads an institution that oversees numerous member and affiliate churches.

With a journey rooted in the Apostolic Faith Church and now presiding over one of the nation’s major church mother bodies, he emphasizes that peace is not a passive waiting game, but a daily responsibility of reconciliation and unity. In this interview, he shares how “red blood” unites us all and why dialogue must always triumph over violence for the sake of the next generation.

Q1. Could you briefly introduce yourself — where you serve, and what has shaped your journey as a faith leader?

I am Apostle Dr. Evans K Kaping’a, and I serve as the President of ACOC (Apostles Council of Churches), which is one of eight church mother bodies registered by the government. I come from the Apostolic Faith Church, but I am currently heading this institution, which oversees different churches and interfaith churches that are within our members and affiliates.

My journey of faith has taught me that true peace comes from trusting God. Faith has shown me that peace is not something we wait for, but it is something we live out daily through obedience, humility, forgiveness, and love. As a spiritual leader coming from the background of Christianity, the scriptures constantly remind us that peace is both a gift from God and a responsibility entrusted to us. God entrusted that peace, that responsibility to us, because peace should live within ourselves.

What I’ve learned throughout my journey is that it’s about reconciliation and unity. We have to foster reconciliation. We foster unity. When you are in conflict, there will always be misunderstandings. So I value so much respecting people’s opinions, respecting one another, and adopting to the situations where necessary, where it requires that peace to normalize.

We have to adopt to the situation and help out how people might reconcile. That is what I’ve learned throughout my journey. It’s about reconciliation, uniting ourselves together, forgiving each other, embracing each other, loving each other in humility, in respect, in whichever way that will make the calmness within the areas where there is misunderstanding.

Q2. When you hear the word peace, what does it mean to you — personally, spiritually, and for your community?

When I hear about the word peace, what it means to me personally, spiritually, and for my community is this: Peace is more than the absence of conflict. It is a state of inner alignment where the heart, the mind, and the spirit are in harmony with God and with the community or with one another. Peace begins within. But it must also be visible in how we relate with others. It is the quiet strength that allows us to face differences without fear and challenges without hatred.

Out there to the community, we have to see that people living in conflict situations are the peacemakers according to the word of God. The Bible says blessed are the peacemakers. So as a person who walks in peace, I need to make sure that I embrace everyone — whether old, young, rich, poor, even people living in conflict. It is my duty as the person who advocates for peace.

At one point, way back in 1998, I attended the International University of People’s Institution for Peace. That is in the sixth academic year in Italy. The annual course that I attended was about people’s diplomats, nonviolence, and the reconstruction of post wars. So personally, peace has to align with our hearts.

Q3. From your experience, what do you think are the biggest misunderstandings people have about your faith or about peace?

In today’s challenges, there are challenges that people face. There is a lot of misunderstanding. It may be that today there is too much division. That division can be either political, social, economic, even religious. People live in fear, misinformation, injustices, intolerance. That has continued to separate people. The loss of moral grounding leads to selfishness and disregard for human dignity. When values are weakened, peace becomes fragile.

In most cases, people have become so greedy, self-centered. They don’t like to collaborate with others. So it’s something that contributes to unrest among the society. The things that I have seen with a lot of people — divisions, misunderstandings, bring separation between people.

Let’s take, for instance, in our country where we have so many political parties, so many churches. This is where we see a lot of divisions. Because people tend to go to where they feel they can be accommodated. In the political realms or political dispensation, you find that people don’t actually go there for development, but for their selfish gain, leaving development behind. So those are the conflicts that we have seen so far. That’s what I can say according to what I perceive.

Q4. How do you and your community work toward peace — through programs, initiatives, or everyday practices?

Being a faith leader, you must be present in the community. In Zambia, I don’t know in these other countries, but I’m sure it is all the same. In Zambia, in communities, you find that there are churches. So as spiritual leaders, we are always there to make sure that the word of God is being preached, peace is being preached. Not only on the pulpit, but we contribute to peace by promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and social responsibility. This includes engaging civic leaders, youth, and other faith leaders.

So when we are in the church, we preach and advocate for justice, modeling peace and co-existence. Our actions outside the church must reflect the message we preach inside. When we are in the church, we preach messages that will bring people together, messages that will make people understand they are one. To the community out there, for them to understand what is going on. So mainly our bell or our modeling should be — we should advocate for justice, peace, co-existence. That is very, very, very important.

We promote dialogue, reconciliation, and social responsibility. If there are things that we have in terms of social responsibilities, where we see people are not actually meeting certain things, it is our role as spiritual leaders to make sure that we help them to meet their needs. We advocate. We reach out to the government. We reach out to whoever has the capacity to help so that they come on board to help people so that they live at peace, they live in harmony.

Because you see, in most cases, if people are lacking certain things, it becomes a challenge and very difficult for them to survive in life. But if we help them in that manner, it helps us bring reconciliation and peace in the society. I think we have a duty as spiritual leaders in terms of reconciliation and dialogue where there is a conflict situation.

Q5. What role do interfaith dialogue and cooperation play in your understanding of peace, and how have you experienced them so far?

The interfaith dialogue helps to bring people together. Remember, I’ve mentioned the issue of reconciliation. When we talk about dialogue, we are simply saying there is a conflict situation where there is a lot of misunderstanding. Now we want to bring the parties together so that they can also understand each other and come alive to one point of agreeing to certain areas.

So the interfaith makes the community understand different faiths. We learn about cross-cultural understanding. Cross-cultural understanding, even in the Bible, is there. The Jews were practicing different things. The Hebrews were practicing different things. The Jews were practicing different things. All in all, the common thing that they had was to worship God.

So when we are promoting dialogue, it means we are trying to bring the parties to one thing that they begin to understand what they are supposed to do in the society. If it comes to help development in the society, we bury the differences of people. We are saying, “I’m coming from this church, I’m coming from that church,” but we concentrate on the development. Because development has no boundaries.

Anyone… Death has no boundaries. Anyone can die. Anger has no boundaries. Anyone, whether Buddhist, whether Hindu, whether Christian, can still feel the same feeling that the other person is feeling. But for us to bring them, it is our duty to make sure that we preach to them what is required for them to start understanding. There is an issue, remember the issue of respect, respect to one another’s culture.

If they are doing the wrong thing, we begin to let them know what they should understand. We are not there to bring conflict in the society. We are there to bring peace. Wherever we go, we talk about peace. Whatever we do, when we walk, we walk peace. We talk peace. We sit in peace. Whatever that we are doing, our language should be peaceful.

So then the issue of misunderstanding, what we have at the moment in the community is part of misunderstanding. We have to bring transformation. Transformation, forgiveness, which leads to forgiveness and dialogue. Reconciliation. That is the major thing that deeply strengthens the commitment to peace. And peace is possible when people choose humility and love over pride and anger. That’s all.

Q6. Finally, what message of peace would you like to share with youth and future faith leaders?

That’s very, very important and very cardinal. Because whenever we are trying to do things, we should always think ahead. If I do this, what will happen to the next generation? The seed that I planted today has to germinate in the next generation.

So my message to the next generation is this: Peace begins with you. Peace begins with us. So we must choose to love over hatred, dialogue over violence, unity over division. And we have to be very courageous. Be very courageous enough to stand for what is right and compassionate enough to listen to those who differ from us. So the future of peace depends on our willingness to live it daily. That is how we should be.

The next generation must understand that it’s very important to choose dialogue over violence. Why should I fight my brother? Why should I fight my sister? Why should I fight another country? When all of us are breathing, all of us, we have the same blood.

The secret of God is that whether somebody is white, like yourself, I’m black here in Africa, but when we cut our skin, we find that the same thing that will come out from us will be the same thing. Although it might differ in grading or whatever scientifically, we have the red blood, meaning that we are one.

So our language should preach about unity, bring ourselves together, regardless of the race, regardless of where the person is coming from, whether a stranger, whether a person is known to me, whether a person is not known to me, but what is important is to embrace one another. That is my message that I have.

· Interviewer: Eustace Bae, Coordinator of Religious Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch
· Interviewee: Apostle Dr. Evans K Kaping’a, President of the Apostles Council of Churches in Zambia (ACOC)

This interview has been edited and finalized by the Public Relations Department of HWPL Global 08 Branch.

게시물 [Peace In Your View] Interview with Apostle Dr. Evans K Kaping’a이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

An Interview with Honorable Hiroshi V. Yamamura
Senator of the Republic of the Marshall Islands

Peace In Your View is an initiative developed under HWPL’s efforts to realize Article 10, Spreading a Culture of Peace, of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). By conducting in-depth interviews with individuals actively contributing to peace, the project seeks to illuminate diverse perspectives, experiences, and philosophies. Through stories shared by leaders, practitioners, and community members from various backgrounds, Peace In Your View aims to inspire readers to reflect on how they can promote peace, inclusion, and social cohesion in their own communities.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands carries one of the most painful legacies of nuclear testing in modern history. Between 1946 and 1958, nuclear tests conducted at Bikini Atoll and Enewetak Atoll displaced communities, caused severe environmental damage, and left long-lasting human suffering that continues to affect generations.

In this interview, Honorable Hiroshi V. Yamamura, a long-serving senator of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, shares his perspective on why preserving nuclear testing records is essential—not only for Marshallese society, but for the global community. Drawing on decades of public service, he reflects on historical memory, nuclear disarmament, and the role of international cooperation in transforming painful history into a legacy for peace.

Remembering Nuclear Testing as a Shared History

Q. Why is it important for Marshallese society, especially younger generations, to remember the history of nuclear testing at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls?

Preserving the history of nuclear testing is essential because it is deeply connected to Marshallese identity and collective memory. Entire communities were displaced, and the consequences of nuclear testing have shaped our society in lasting social, cultural, and environmental ways.

For younger generations, understanding this history helps explain not only the suffering of their ancestors, but also why issues such as nuclear disarmament and justice remain relevant today. Remembering this history is not about remaining in the past—it is about learning from it to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Preserving Voices Before They Are Lost

Q. Many survivors’ memories and oral histories are at risk of fading over time. What efforts are most urgently needed today?

The most urgent task is to collect and preserve survivors’ testimonies, oral histories, and traditional knowledge while they are still available. These personal accounts reveal the human impact of nuclear testing in ways that official records alone cannot.

Without timely preservation, an irreplaceable part of our history may be lost. Ensuring that these stories are recorded and passed on allows future generations to learn directly from lived experience, rather than through distant interpretation.

Preserving Records as a Foundation for Truth

Q. When preserving the legacy of nuclear testing, what kinds of records are most important to safeguard?

It is important to preserve a wide range of materials that reflect both official documentation and lived experience. Oral testimonies, photographs, government archives, personal diaries, displacement records, videos, and community narratives each capture different dimensions of what occurred.

Together, these records reveal not only historical facts, but also the long-term human and environmental consequences endured by the Marshallese people. Preserving this diversity ensures that history is represented truthfully and comprehensively.

From National Experience to Global Responsibility

Q. How can preserving these records contribute to broader international understanding and responsibility?

Preserving these records gives international visibility to the Marshallese experience and affirms that our history carries meaning beyond national borders. When shared globally, these materials raise awareness about the real consequences of nuclear testing.

They also encourage dialogue and cooperation among nations on nuclear issues. In this way, preserving history is not only about remembrance—it is about strengthening global solidarity for peace and preventing future harm.

Memory, Peace Education, and Cooperation

Q. How do peace education efforts, including HWPL’s work, contribute to preserving historical memory and promoting peace in the Pacific region?

Peace education plays an essential role in transforming painful history into a foundation for peace. By sharing the history of Bikini and Enewetak Atolls, people can better understand the consequences of nuclear weapons and the importance of disarmament.

Organizations like HWPL contribute by connecting local histories with global peace education efforts and encouraging cooperation among communities, civil society, and international partners. Such collaboration ensures that historical memory supports reconciliation and lasting peace.

Looking Toward Future Generations

Q. What is your hope for future generations regarding the legacy of Bikini and Enewetak Atolls?

I hope future generations inherit a legacy of resilience and awareness. I want them to understand the past, continue advocating for nuclear disarmament, as a vital pathway toward the cessation of all forms of war, and recognize peace as a shared responsibility.

Final Reflection

Preserving nuclear testing records is not simply about recording history. It is about protecting truth, honoring human dignity, and building a foundation for peace. The preservation of these records serves as an essential foundation for realizing a world without war, as envisioned by the DPCW. Through memory, education, and international cooperation, the painful history of the Marshall Islands can contribute to a more just and peaceful future.

· Interviewer: Amanda Kim, General Director of Public Relations Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch
· Interviewee: Honorable Hiroshi Yamamura, Senator of the Republic of the Marshall Islands

This interview has been edited and finalized by the Public Relations Department of HWPL Global 08 Branch.

게시물 [Peace In Your View] Remembering Bikini and Enewetak: Nuclear Memory, Responsibility, and the Path to Peace이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

Peace In Your View is an initiative developed under HWPL’s efforts to realize Article 10, Spreading a Culture of Peace, of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). By conducting in-depth interviews with individuals actively contributing to peace, the project seeks to illuminate diverse perspectives, experiences, and philosophies. Through stories shared by leaders, practitioners, and community members from various backgrounds, Peace in Your View aims to inspire readers to reflect on how they can promote peace, inclusion, and social cohesion in their own communities.

In this episode, Stella Seong speaks with Orry Van de Wauwer, Director of Pax Christi Flanders. A former Belgian Federal Senator and NATO representative, Van de Wauwer shares his courageous “value-based transition” from high-level politics to grassroots activism. Their dialogue explores how redefining leadership through empathy and human dignity can transform peace from a mere absence of war into a deliberate, daily practice shared by all.

Finding “Human Value” Beyond Political Limits

Q. You chose Pax Christi after a distinguished career in the Belgian Senate and NATO. What triggered such a significant career shift?

“I entered politics at 17 and ran for office at 18 because I wanted to ensure young voices were heard. I was drawn to the Christian Democrats because of their founding conviction: ‘Every human being matters.’ However, over time, the party’s positions on migration and development began to drift away from my personal convictions. I realized I couldn’t sincerely ask people to vote for positions I no longer believed in. That was the moment I knew I had to prioritize human dignity over a political career.”

Q. How does your political background influence your current work as a peace advocate?

“Pax Christi Flanders is a sociocultural organization officially recognized by the Flemish government—ironically, I helped shape the legislative framework for such organizations during my time in parliament. Today, I use that system to champion human rights and foreign affairs from a value-driven perspective rather than a profit-driven one. My experience with international bodies like the OSCE and NATO allows me to advocate for humanitarian law with a deep understanding of how policy is actually made.”

The Heart of Pax Christi: “Peace Spirituality”

Q. Pax Christi is rooted in Catholic social teaching. What does this spiritual foundation mean for the organization today?

“For me, faith is a personal search. However, I recognize the immense value of spirituality and connection. Pax Christi’s foundation in Christian social doctrine reflects universal humanistic values: the dignity of every person and the protection of all life. This ‘Peace Spirituality’ is our guiding thread. It’s not just an abstract concept; it’s a practical commitment to non-violence inspired by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Hannah Arendt, and Emmanuel Levinas.”

Q. Can people without a religious background still find a home in your organization?

“Absolutely. We are a pluralistic and open organization. We work closely with secular peace groups because we share the same goals. What distinguishes us is that we offer a ‘why’ behind the actions. This spiritual grounding attracts volunteers seeking a deeper sense of purpose. Whether religious or not, anyone who believes in the sanctity of human life is welcome.”

2025 Milestone: 1,000 Daily Peace Builders

Q. Your “Peace Builders” campaign in 2025 was a major success. What was the core message?

“We started with a simple belief: War exists not only because of conflict, but because peace is not built every day. We wanted to activate citizens as daily peace builders. We organized 60 ‘Peace Labs’ across Flanders and Brussels, bringing together 1,000 participants—including refugees, students, prisoners, and expats—to share stories and create symbols of peace.”

Q. Those symbols eventually became a public installation called the “Temple of Peace,” didn’t they?

“Yes. We transformed those shared stories into flags and assembled them into a massive public installation. For 10 days, this ‘Temple of Peace’ hosted a festival featuring debates and arts programs focused on the four pillars of security: Diplomacy, Development, Democracy, and Defense. The flags weren’t just fabric; they were deeply personal political statements on migration, ecology, and solidarity.”

Looking Toward 2026: Beyond Ceasefires

Q. What is on the horizon for Pax Christi in 2026?

“Our goal is to translate the grassroots energy from the Peace Builders campaign into policy influence. We plan to engage political parties to promote a broader, more human-centric understanding of security. We are also planning a second Peace Builders campaign, including a new ‘Temple of Peace’ in the city of Ypres in May 2026, co-created with the local community.”

Q. Any final message for our readers?

“A ceasefire alone is not peace. Peace is a continuous process grounded in dialogue and shared security. It is something that must be renewed every single day. I hope everyone finds a way to be a ‘Peace Builder’ in their own daily lives.”

What is Pax Christi?

Founded in 1945 to promote reconciliation between France and Germany after WWII, Pax Christi is an international Catholic peace movement. Today, it operates in over 50 countries, working on disarmament, human rights, and peace processes in conflict zones.

· Interviewer: Stella Seong, Coordinator of Religious Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch

· Interviewee: Orry Van de Wauwer, Director of Pax Christi Flanders

This interview has been edited and finalized by Public Relations Department of HWPL Global 08 Branch

Why the Bikini and Enewetak Nuclear Tests Must Be Remembered

Peace In Your View is an initiative developed under HWPL’s efforts to realize Article 10, Spreading a Culture of Peace, of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). By conducting in-depth interviews with individuals actively contributing to peace, the project seeks to illuminate diverse perspectives, experiences, and philosophies. Through stories shared by leaders, practitioners, and community members from various backgrounds, Peace in Your View aims to inspire readers to reflect on how they can promote peace, inclusion, and social cohesion in their own communities.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands bears one of the most painful legacies of nuclear testing in human history. Between 1946 and 1958, nuclear tests conducted at Bikini Atoll and other sites displaced communities, devastated the environment, and left long-lasting human suffering.

In this interview, Mr. Benjamin Kiluwe, an official at the Marshall Islands Ministry of Culture & Internal Affairs (MoCIA), shares his perspective on why preserving nuclear testing records is essential—not only for Marshallese society, but for the global community. He reflects on the enduring human, environmental, and historical impacts of nuclear testing, and emphasizes the role of documentary records in safeguarding truth, memory, and intergenerational accountability as foundations for justice and peace.

Remembering Nuclear Testing as a Collective Responsibility

Q. Why is it important for Marshallese society—especially younger generations—to remember the history of nuclear testing at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls?

It is crucial for our society to fully understand the suffering and losses our people endured as a result of nuclear testing. Entire communities were displaced, and many Marshallese lost not only their homes, but also their cultural heritage, as they were never able to return to their ancestral lands.

For younger generations, remembering this history is especially important. They need to understand how deeply nuclear testing devastated our society—socially, culturally, environmentally, and spiritually. More importantly, this understanding helps explain why the issue of justice remains unresolved for many Marshallese families even today.

Memory is not about dwelling on pain; it is about ensuring that the truth is carried forward so that similar tragedies are never repeated.

From Nuclear Legacy to Peace Legacy

Q. You have collaborated with HWPL over the years and previously visited Korea for the HWPL World Peace Summit. Could you share your experience and how your understanding of HWPL’s peace work has evolved over time?

I had the opportunity to visit Korea in 2014 and 2015 to participate in the HWPL World Peace Summit, during the early stages of HWPL’s global peace activities. At that time, I was deeply impressed by how people from diverse nations, cultures, and backgrounds came together with a shared desire for peace.

Since then, HWPL has continued to develop its peace initiatives in a consistent and principled way. In particular, after the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) was proclaimed in 2016, I observed how HWPL began grounding its activities in a clear normative framework for peace.

What stood out to me most was Article 10 of the DPCW, which emphasizes spreading a culture of peace through public awareness, education, and remembrance. I was especially moved by how HWPL applies this principle in practice—transforming painful histories, such as nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands, into peace initiatives that educate, commemorate, and promote accountability.

Seeing efforts that seek not to erase suffering, but to preserve memory and transform a nuclear legacy into a peace legacy, left a strong impression on me. It reflects a sincere commitment to ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated.

Peace Through Memory and Education

Q. HWPL conducts its peace activities based on the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). How do you see the relevance of this framework—especially Article 10—to the historical experience of the Marshall Islands?

The Marshall Islands represents a very real example of why a culture of peace is necessary. The nuclear testing carried out at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls demonstrates how militarization and war-related decisions can continue to harm people, communities, and the environment long after conflicts have officially ended.

Article 10 speaks directly to this reality. By emphasizing public awareness, remembrance, and education, it recognizes that peace is not sustained only through political agreements, but through collective memory and shared understanding.

From this perspective, preserving nuclear testing records is not simply about documenting the past. It is about ensuring that future generations inherit lessons for peace, rather than a legacy of violence. This approach closely reflects the lived experience of the Marshallese people.

What Must Be Preserved—and Why It Matters

Q. When we talk about preserving the memory of nuclear testing, what kinds of records or materials are most important?

The documentary records related to nuclear testing are essential because they provide concrete evidence of historical truth, responsibility, and accountability. In particular, the legal decisions and case records produced by the Nuclear Claims Tribunal (NCT) are extremely significant.

These records clearly document the extent of personal injury, displacement, environmental damage, and long-term suffering experienced by the affected communities. Many of the people represented in these documents are still seeking justice today.

Such records speak for those whose voices were ignored for decades. Preserving them ensures that the human impact of nuclear weapons is neither minimized nor forgotten.

A Global Lesson Beyond the Marshall Islands

Q. Why do you believe the Marshall Islands—especially Bikini and Enewetak Atolls—are relevant to global peace discussions today?

For me, the history of Bikini and Enewetak Atolls is not only a national tragedy—it is a global lesson. What happened here reflects the broader consequences of weapons of mass destruction on humanity and our shared environment.

When these experiences are remembered and shared internationally, they help people understand the true cost of nuclear weapons beyond military or political narratives. Preserving these records allows the world to confront uncomfortable truths and acknowledge historical responsibility.

Transforming what was once a nuclear testing ground into a source of peace education and remembrance is not only meaningful—it is necessary. This is how painful history can contribute to building a safer and more peaceful future for all.

Closing Reflection

Preserving nuclear testing records is not simply an act of archiving history. It is an act of justice, remembrance, and peacebuilding. Through memory, education, and international solidarity, the suffering of the Marshallese people can become a lasting reminder of why peace must be actively protected—and why humanity must never repeat the same mistakes.

· Interviewer: Amanda Kim, General Director of Public Relations Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch
· Interviewee: Mr. Benjamin Kiluwe, Official at the Marshall Islands Ministry of Culture & Internal Affairs

This interview has been edited and finalized by Public Relations Department of HWPL Global 08 Branch

게시물 [Peace In Your View] Preserving Nuclear Test Records as a Legacy for Peace이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

The exhibition shed light on the resilience of Pacific communities, including those in the Marshall Islands scarred by nuclear testing and low-lying island nations threatened by rising sea levels, through powerful photographs and stories that captured their reality. Between 1946 and 1958, 67 nuclear tests conducted in the Pacific left deep scars: forced displacement, generations suffering from health issues, and severe environmental destruction. Today, as the climate crisis accelerates and sea levels rise, these communities face another existential threat.

One of the highlights of the event was the peace lecture delivered on May 10 by Mr. Ryu Jaebok, Chairman of the Korean Association for Families Separated by War. Under the theme “Scars of War: Speaking of Peace Beyond Division and Nuclear Threats,” Mr. Ryu reflected on the pain of separated families, the trauma caused by war and nuclear weapons, and the universal longing for peace. He emphasized that “the wounds of war are not confined by borders. From the Korean Peninsula to the Pacific Islands, we share a common duty to heal, remember, and act for a more peaceful future.” He also stressed the necessity of preserving these memories and records, from the heartbreak of separated families to the suffering of nuclear test victims, so that they may be passed down and shared as a living call for peace. 

Visitors participated in guided tours and a peace message campaign, writing messages of support and solidarity for the people of the Pacific. Over 200 messages were collected and will be delivered to the government of the Marshall Islands, symbolizing a shared commitment to peace, solidarity, and mutual support between the people of Korea and the Pacific communities.

The “Legislate Peace” (LP) program is a global initiative aimed at promoting and supporting the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) and its implementation at the international level. By advocating for the establishment of an international legal framework for peace and disarmament, the program seeks to transform the core values of the DPCW into tangible outcomes through legal, institutional, and cultural means. 

게시물 Counting the Stars of the Pacific: Speaking of Peace Beyond Division, Nuclear Threats, and the Climate Crisis이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

[Peace In Your View] Rabbi Marianne van Praag on Leading with Intuition and Courage

Peace In Your View is an initiative developed under HWPL’s efforts to realize Article 10, Spreading a Culture of Peace, of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). By conducting in-depth interviews with individuals actively contributing to peace, the project seeks to illuminate diverse perspectives, experiences, and philosophies. Through stories shared by leaders, practitioners, and community members from various backgrounds, Peace in Your View aims to inspire readers to reflect on how they can promote peace, inclusion, and social cohesion in their own communities.

In this episode, Rachel Kim interviewed Rabbi Marianne L. van Praag from The Hague, a liberal Jewish community leader. The conversation explored Rabbi van Praag’s lifelong journey, her leadership philosophy, and the challenges and rewards of guiding a small but resilient religious community. Through her personal story, the interview emphasizes the importance of intuition, empathy, and courage in building a hopeful future and fostering dialogue across different faiths and cultures.

𝐐. Introduce yourself and your community in The Hague.

My name is Marianne van Praag, and I am a liberal rabbi in the Netherlands. In Judaism, there are many different streams, and being a woman in this role already places me in the liberal tradition.

The Jewish community in the Netherlands is very small today. Before World War II, there were around 120,000 Jews; afterward, only about 20,000 survived. The Hague, in particular, lost the highest percentage of its Jewish population. After the war, the community had to rebuild everything from almost nothing—homes, families, livelihoods, and the community itself.

Today, we estimate about 60,000 Jews in the country, but only around 8,000 belong to organized communities. In a population of 18 million, that is extremely small—yet many Dutch people assume there are far more. The gap between perception and reality is quite striking.

𝐐. What inspired you to become a Rabbi, and could you share both a moment when you felt “this is truly my calling” and a moment when you found the role very challenging?

I always felt there was something meaningful I was meant to do, but for years I didn’t know what it was. I worked as a teacher, a tour guide, even at the Israeli embassy—but the feeling remained.
Then, at age 45, a friend told me about the opening of the first Rabbinical Education Institute in the Netherlands. I applied, and the moment I walked through the door, I knew: “This is it. This is what I’ve been waiting for.”

Interestingly, I now serve as rabbi in the very community where I grew up and spent decades advocating for women’s roles. For 40 years I fought to open leadership opportunities for women in what was supposed to be a liberal community. I once said I would never serve as rabbi here—yet here I am. Life has a sense of humor.

The challenging part of my role is being in the middle of many perspectives. People don’t always agree, and as a liberal rabbi, I sometimes prioritize intention and compassion over strict religious law. For example, in a recent funeral, I honored the wishes of someone who was not officially Jewish according to traditional law. For me, respecting a person’s final wishes matters more than rigid interpretations made long ago.

Following intuition is essential in my work. Your head can confuse you, but intuition rarely does. If you truly believe you are doing the right thing, you must stand by it.

𝐐. What is your leadership philosophy at LJG Den Haag, and what core activities is the community currently focusing on?

As a religious community, our core activities center on life-cycle events—births, bar and bat mitzvahs, marriages, illness, and death. Being present in people’s lives is the heart of the work.
My leadership philosophy is rooted in openness and collaboration. For 14–15 years, I’ve been involved in interreligious committees, community networks, and social initiatives. We keep our synagogue doors open. Many visiting students or community groups meet a Jewish person or enter a synagogue for the first time through us.

I also had to guide my own community to understand that leadership is not about gender but intention. After decades of advocating for women’s participation, I believe we’ve made meaningful progress.

So my philosophy is simple:
– Be present
– Be honest about our traditions and struggles
– Build bridges within the community and beyond

We don’t have many young people in The Hague—most move to Amsterdam. And in general, Dutch youth are more drawn to spirituality than organized religion.

We try to make space for younger people, but it’s not always easy. Older members often want things to stay as they are, so finding balance is an ongoing challenge.

I am retiring soon, and our new rabbi is a young, dynamic leader in his early 30s. I hope he will build stronger connections with the younger generation. He understands social media and modern communication far better than I do.

Jewish tradition can offer hope by showing that rebuilding is possible—even after deep trauma. After the Shoah, the community had to reconstruct everything. That history teaches that you can experience something devastating and still create a meaningful future. It’s a powerful message for any generation.

𝐐. In the multicultural context of The Hague, what unique strengths does your community bring, and how do you engage across different faiths and cultures?

One of our strongest points is openness. We welcome many school classes, churches, and community groups. For many, it’s their first time meeting a Jew.

We also receive many Muslim visitors. They often say, “We look alike,” and we talk about food laws or prayer traditions. They are surprised to discover how much we share. My goal is for people to recognize common values and respect differences.

When I speak in churches, people sometimes say, “But you didn’t mention Jesus Christ.” I remind them respectfully that while they see Jesus as divine, we do not—yet we can still respect each other’s truths.

In Hebrew, the word for truth—emet—contains the words for “mother” and “death.” The only absolute truths are that we are born and we die. Everything between is interpretation. Understanding that helps us coexist.

So our message in a multicultural society is:
– We share more than we think
– We can respect different truths
– Differences don’t need to be feared

𝐐. How can religious communities contribute to peace and social cohesion in the Netherlands today?

Religious communities can help society by encouraging people to acknowledge pain—both their own and others’—and still move forward.

There’s a biblical story about Lot’s wife, who became a pillar of salt because she looked back instead of forward. To me, the message is that when we hold on to past hurts, we become stuck.

We can’t change the past, but we can shape the future. Peace-building requires recognizing each other’s suffering and then choosing to build something new together.

I see the Bible not as history, but as the story of human beings making mistakes and learning. If you don’t make mistakes, you don’t grow. That understanding helps communities foster peace and connection.

𝐐. If you were to send one message to youth networks across Europe, what would you wish to share?

Young people truly have the potential to create change—far more than large institutions sometimes do. If you have a dream, pursue it with conviction.

If you know you’re on the right path, don’t let anyone talk you out of it just because it’s difficult or uncertain. Your intuition will guide you more faithfully than your doubts.

That is the message I want young people across Europe to remember.

· Interviewer: Rachel Kim, Coordinator of the Religious Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch
· Interviewee: Rabbi Marianne L. van Praag, Liberaal Joodse Gemeente Den Haag (LJG Den Haag) in Netherlands

This interview has been edited and finalized by Public Relations Department of HWPL Global 08 Branch

게시물 [Peace In Your View] Rabbi Marianne van Praag on Leading with Intuition and Courage이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

The session opened with remarks from Juliet Makwama, a Journalist and Communications Specialist from Lusaka. Having joined previous dialogues, her presence as a keynote speaker highlighted that conversations on religion and peace extend beyond faith leaders. She emphasized the need to reflect on the true purpose of religion and its role in fostering peace, noting that this dialogue provides an open space for anyone committed to putting the principles of peace into action.

Participants joined the dialogue with different expectations and hopes. Mwelwa Chisanga from the United Nations Youth Association of Mulungushi University said he was motivated by desire to learn how people of various religions can live together in harmony. After the session, Junior Councillor Bernard Kambole from the Lusaka City Council shared that religion is central to people’s social life and can serve as a pillar of world peace, adding that this dialogue helps deepen understanding religion’s role in peacebuilding. Although attendees came from different ages and backgrounds, their thoughts converged on a shared wish to see peace practiced in everyday life. Their responses showed how this dialogue continues to bring together diverse hopes and guide them toward a common purpose.

This month’s discussion featured presentations from Sheikh Yussuf Ayami, representing the Islamic faith as Team Leader of Family Development Initiatives; Ram Auerbach, representing Judaism as Chairman of the Jewish Board of Deputies Zambia; and Peace Banda, The External Affair Office of National Bahá’í Center, representing the Bahá’í faith. Responding to the guiding question, “According to your faith, how is peace defined, and can you share one example of its practice and one way you can personally act to promote it?”, each speaker drew from their respective scriptures and teachings to share perspectives on peace.

As the 2025 Interfaith Dialogue series enters its final month in December, the year’s discussions underscore that this ongoing dialogue will continue move forward. Throughout the year, religious leaders and citizens committed to peace have gathered to learn, share, and build mutual understanding. In addition to discussing peace through scripture, HWPL has demonstrated practical approaches to peace through initiatives such as the Zambia 918 Peace Assembly and other peace-related activities. With the December session ahead, many anticipate that the continued expansion of these dialogues will help foster a culture of peace across Zambia.

About HWPL WARP Office

The HWPL WARP Office is an international platform where religious leaders and believers engage in regular interfaith dialogues based on their scriptures. Established by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the initiative promotes mutual understanding, respect, and peacebuilding through the shared wisdom found in diverse faith traditions. Since its founding, WARP Offices have been held in more than 130 countries, providing a space for cooperation among religious communities and encouraging collective action toward lasting peace.

게시물 HWPL Zambia’s November Interfaith Dialogue Continues the Conversation on the Role of Religion in Peacebuilding이 에 처음 등장했습니다.

Seoul, South Korea –  Sheikh Musa Saidi, Former Deputy President of the Islamic Supreme Council of Zambia, shared his reflections in the interview after participating in the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations held from October 30 to November 2.

 As one of the invited religious leaders who completed the Bible Experience Program (BEP), Sheikh Saidi spoke about his unique journey of studying the Bible and promoting interfaith harmony.

Sheikh Musa Saidi speaking at the in the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations in Korea

Q. During your visit to Korea, you attended the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations. Could you share your overall impressions of the visit and the special lecture?

“Being a Muslim, coming from a Muslim background and having studied the Quran, it was an eye-opener for me to begin to understand the Bible itself, especially the prophecies and revelations according to the church interpretation. It opened a new perspective for me.” He shared that studying the Bible Experience Program by Shincheonji Church allowed him to deeply explore the Christian scripture for the first time.

Q. The special lecture invited only leaders who completed the BEP course. What led you to join the BEP, and what key insights or realizations did you gain through it?

“I personally chose to join the Bible Experience Program to gain a deeper understanding of the Christian scripture,” he said. “As religious leaders, we should coordinate and collaborate to promote harmonious living.” He continued, “All in all, the course emphasizes living harmoniously. We may be of different colors or regions, but all of us were created by one God. That’s why we always say, ‘We are one.’” 

Q. As a Muslim leader, studying the scripture of another religion can be a significant decision. What motivated you to embark on this learning journey?

“The Quran says, ‘Are they equal, those who know and those who do not know?’

To be a good Muslim and a good leader, I need to understand my Christian neighbors and what they believe. I am not just a Muslim leader, but a community leader. To lead my people well, I must understand all Christians, Hindus, and others. We want this world to be peaceful. Peaceful coexistence is possible only if I understand you and you understand me.”

Participants from diverse religions attending the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations

Q. As you progressed through the BEP, what mindset or personal goal guided you during your studies?

“My purpose of studying the Bible was not to tell who is right or wrong, but to understand my brothers and sisters from the other side. The media often portrays Islam as a terrorist religion, but through this interaction, we see the truth: there are good and bad aspects in every religion.

If we share our talents together, we can make this world a better place to live in.”

Q. How did other sheikhs or Islamic leaders respond when they learned about your participation? Did you experience any challenges or misunderstandings within your community?

“Many of them found it new, but I’ve always believed in interfaith cooperation,” he said, referring to his work with the Interfaith Networking Group (ZINGO).

 “Through HWPL, I took one more step, not to convert, but to understand. I study the Bible to know what others in Zambia believe in.” He added that understanding other faiths helps him show respect when engaging with leaders from different traditions.

Q. You toured the park at Goseong Peace Institute and attended the BEP graduation ceremony. What impressions or reflections did these expressions leave on you?

 “It was amazing. Visiting the park to see the Revelation-themed sculptures helped us consolidate our understanding of the Book of Revelation. From an Islamic perspective, it’s a journey of learning, to see what others believe in and how we can walk together for peace.” 

Sheikh Musa Saidi in front of Peace Park in Goseong

Closing Remarks

“To understand one another is the beginning of peace.

When I understand your faith and you understand mine, then we can live together in harmony, as one family under one God.” 

Sheikh Musa Saidi interviewed in Yeouido, Seoul

Bible Experience Program (BEP)

HWPL’s Inter Religious Peace Academy (IRPA) offers opportunities for learning and dialogue across different religions. In its follow-up program, education was provided for Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Islam. For Christianity, the Shincheonji Church conducted the BEP. The 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations invited participants who had completed the BEP, linking the two programs.

Interview conducted by Amanda Kim
General Director of Public Relations Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch

게시물 Understanding Others is the Beginning of Peace: Sheikh Musa Saidi on Interfaith Harmony이 에 처음 등장했습니다.