The International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) orchestrated a global celebration of peace, marking the 6th anniversary of International Women’s Peace Day on April 26th. Under the resonant theme, “Women Bring Peace that the World Needs,” over 3,500 individuals participated in commemorative events across 70 cities in 40 countries. These gatherings, spanning from late April to early May, served as a powerful reaffirmation of the global commitment to peacebuilding, with a particular emphasis on the vital role of women in achieving this crucial objective. Established in 2019 by IWPG, International Women’s Peace Day centers around the vision of a world free from war, where precious lives are protected and a legacy of peace is passed down through generations. The IWPG, an internationally recognized NGO affiliated with both the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communications (DGC), boasts a widespread network with headquarters in South Korea, 115 branches in 122 countries, and partnerships with over 800 organizations across 68 nations.
The 6th anniversary celebrations resonated across the globe, from major cities in South Korea, including Busan, Daejeon, Seoul, Incheon, and Iksan, to international locations such as the Philippines, Ethiopia, Australia, Lebanon, the United States, the Czech Republic, and Japan. Each event showcased the diverse and passionate engagement of peace advocates. In Busan, 300 people gathered, while Daejeon saw 110 participants come together for a flashmob dance and peace march. Incheon hosted 200 attendees, and Iksan witnessed a dedicated group of 30 members celebrating and establishing an IWPG booth at Seodong Park. Various branches in Goyang, Seodaemun, Paju, and Eunpyeong collaborated for a joint event at the Imjingak Pyeonghwa Nuri Park. Simultaneously, events unfolded in Seoul, with a commemorative gathering held at the Peace Culture Bunker in Dobong-gu, and a peace campaign orchestrated along the Yangjaecheon River in Gangnam-gu. A Korean peace delegation, visiting the Philippines from April 22nd to 27th, held a ceremony in front of the 3rd IWPG Peace Monument, further solidifying international collaboration and engagement with local leaders.
A central theme of this year’s commemoration was the advocacy for the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW). This declaration, conceived as a collaborative, global solution for peace, outlines practical steps to eradicate war at its roots. Participants across the globe reaffirmed their commitment to peace and underscored the indispensable role of women in driving this movement forward. The events emphasized the power of female solidarity in ending conflict and preventing future wars, highlighting the unique contributions of empathy and compassion women bring to peacebuilding efforts. The celebrations also encompassed various engaging activities for the public, ranging from crafting mini windmills adorned with the Korean flag, distributing fans, and street promotions, to showcasing artwork from the International Loving-Peace Art Competition, offering aroma hand massages, conducting peace quizzes, planting activities, and bracelet making.
IWPG Chairwoman Hyun Sook Yoon delivered a compelling address emphasizing the urgent need for tangible peace, moving beyond mere rhetoric. Echoing the principles enshrined in UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS), she stressed the importance of women as key agents of peacebuilding and their protection from the ravages of war and conflict. Chairwoman Yoon’s message underscored the power of collective action, stating, “Alone, one may be weak, but together, we are powerful.” Her call to action urged women worldwide to unite with IWPG and embrace leadership roles in peacebuilding through education and collaboration, ensuring the protection of war victims and the eventual establishment of the DPCW as international peace law.
The IWPG, with its impressive global reach and commitment to sustainable peace, exemplifies the potential of collective action. Their ongoing efforts focus on building peace networks, disseminating a culture of peace, providing peace education, and advocating for the legislative adoption of the DPCW. Their work underscores the critical role of women in shaping a more peaceful future for all. The 6th anniversary of International Women’s Peace Day not only celebrated past achievements but also served as a springboard for future actions, solidifying the commitment to a world free from war and violence.
The success of the 6th anniversary commemorations reflects the growing momentum of the global peace movement. The IWPG’s strategic focus on empowering women as peacebuilders, coupled with its advocacy for the DPCW, presents a powerful and hopeful vision for the future. As the world continues to face complex challenges, the message of peace and the vital role of women in achieving it resonate more strongly than ever. The IWPG’s unwavering dedication to this cause serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals and communities around the world to actively participate in building a more peaceful and sustainable future.
