The Citizen-led Peacebuilding Efforts Celebrate Ten Years, as the Global Peace Movement Reaches a Milestone.

Anaheim, Calif., June 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international NGO affiliated with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, is organizing a series of peace events worldwide to commemorate ten years of citizen-led peacebuilding efforts. These events, officially named "HWPL's 10th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace and the Peace Walk," are taking place in 126 locations across 77 countries throughout the month of May.

The inaugural event on May 25 attracted 5,000 participants at the Peace Gate of Seoul Olympic Park in South Korea. Similar gatherings are expected to take place in numerous countries, including the United States, China, Japan, Australia, and Germany, continuing until the end of this month.

The centerpiece of the commemorative events is the "Joint Statement of the 10th Anniversary of the Declaration of World Peace." This statement highlights the evolution of the Declaration into the "Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War" (DPCW), which emphasizes principles such as democracy, justice, civil liberties, equality, religious freedom, and responsibility. The statement recognizes the substantial achievements of the past decade, including the engagement of millions of participants in inter-religious dialogues, peace education, advocacy of peace to national leaders, and the establishment of a global youth network spanning over 120 countries.

HWPL, together with participating organizations, reaffirms its commitment to institutionalizing peace through international cooperation, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16, "Peace, justice, and strong institutions." The organizations pledge to actively engage in mediation efforts, raise awareness, provide education in conflict areas, empower youth and women, and promote best practices for the involvement of civil society.

During the South Korea event, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee received a plaque of appreciation from member organizations of IPYG (International Peace Youth Group) for his tireless dedication and significant contributions to world peace. A moment of remembrance was observed to honor the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in wars, and Korean War veterans were also honored with certificates of appreciation presented by Chairman Lee himself, who is also a Korean War veteran.

HWPL has set an ambitious goal to gather the support of 10 million citizens through their signatures, advocating for the establishment of an international law for peace. Additionally, the organization has organized various commemorative events worldwide aimed at fostering peace within local communities. For more information, including membership registration, details about peace projects, and access to the full text of the DPCW, please visit HWPL's official website at www.hwpl.kr.