3RD GLOBAL PEACE SUMMIT

HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS ASIA

PRESENTS

A WORLD TOGETHER THE 3RD global peace summit

UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE CENTRE, BANGKOK I January 10 to 12, 2024

A WORLD TOGETHER THE 3RD global peace summit

UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE CENTRE, BANGKOK I January 10 to 12, 2024

OVERVIEW

Threats to world peace have undergone significant transformation in the ever-evolving landscape of global dynamics. While armed conflicts, ethnic marginalisation, and acts of violence have historically posed formidable challenges, the concept of peace, both within societies and among nations, continues to evolve at a rapid pace. In light of emerging threats, there has never been a more critical moment to champion the cause of peace.

The 3rd Edition of the Global Peace Summit of Emerging Leaders is a beacon of hope amidst the shifting tides of global unrest. Hosted at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, this landmark event, organised by Humanitarian Affairs Asia, unfolded from January 15 to 17, 2024. Drawing together 370 young leaders from 47 countries, the summit provided a platform for invaluable discourse on the imperative of sustainable peace.

At its core, the summit echoed a simple yet profound truth - peace is within reach, but only through the transformative power of collective effort. Delegates seized the opportunity to forge enduring connections with fellow peace advocates, united by a shared commitment to effecting positive change in their communities and beyond. Together, they embodied the transformative power of collaboration, demonstrating that peace is not merely an abstract ideal but a tangible reality attainable through concerted action, an action to which we can contribute.

ARCHITECTS OF PEACE

Amidst the echoes of wars that have ravaged Europe and the Middle East, a poignant question lingers in the collective consciousness - why cling to hope for peace when concrete steps seem elusive? The stark reality is that mere aspirations, unaccompanied by tangible action, offer little solace in looming conflicts. As history bears witness, the absence of proactive measures does little to deter the outbreak of strife in any region of the world.

Against sobering truths, 350 emerging world leaders from 47 countries are summoned and entrusted with a pivotal role in human history. Gathered at the 3rd Global Peace Summit convened by Humanitarian Affairs Asia, they stand at a crossroads, poised to redefine the trajectory of our shared future. It is not just a role they are stepping into, but a responsibility and a power to inspire action. They must transcend rhetoric and rhetoric alone to step boldly into the role of Peace Messengers, a role that could shape the course of peace in our world.

Collective actions will sow the seeds of lasting peace. Each initiative undertaken, each alliance forged, serves as a powerful bulwark against the tide of conflict, a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. Now is the time for these emerging world leaders to unite and become architects of peace in a world teetering on the brink of chaos.

Together, as Peace Ambassadors, let us embark on a journey towards a future where the legacy of peace endures for generations to come.

FORGING HOPE

The Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, Ms. Lin Yang, expressed a heartfelt gratitude to Humanitarian Affairs for their unwavering support. Reflecting on the past year’s events, she solemnly acknowledged the pivotal role that 2023 played in advancing the 2030 sustainable development agenda. Ms. Yang highlighted the challenges faced, particularly the plight of vulnerable groups worldwide.

Amid adversity, Ms. Yang found hope in the transformative actions witnessed during the 2023 SDG summit. Emphasising the importance of unity and inclusivity in addressing global crises, she drew parallels to the cooperative spirit demonstrated at the Peace Summit, believing it to mitigate the impact of crises and build economic resilience.

Echoing these sentiments, Ms. Yang underscored the importance of solidarity in shaping a better future for all. As she commended the recipients of the Global Peace Prize for their invaluable contributions to bridge-building and dialogue, a sense of collective pride filled the room.

Looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of the coming year, Ms Yang expressed unwavering faith in the delegates’ ability to make a lasting impact. With a final reminder that unity magnifies individual efforts, she left the audience with a rallying cry: “I can do so much, but we can do so much more!” With renewed determination, the delegates were inspired to continue their journey towards a more peaceful and sustainable world.

A CALL TO ACTION

Amidst the grandeur of the United Nations Conference Centre, a diverse tapestry of three hundred and fifty dreamers from every corner of the globe converged. Some had embarked on a journey spanning over 30 hours, while others arrived after a mere few. Our paths may have been different, but our destination was the same: to become young Peacemakers.

At the core of the 3rd Global Peace Summit was a resolute belief: each of us, regardless of the scale of our actions, possesses the power to shape a world brimming with peace. Every delegate was a testament to humanity’s potential for harmony.

What about you? Deep within your heart, do you yearn for peace to prevail? Do you believe that your actions, no matter how small, can help weave a tapestry of tranquillity across the globe? Before you embark on this noble journey, take a moment to ponder a fundamental question: Why do we exist?

With these thought-provoking words, Kim Solomon, the esteemed Founder and General Secretary of Humanitarian Affairs, welcomes the delegates to the third Global Peace Summit. He challenges us to face the harsh realities of our time - war, conflict, and climate crises that our generation must tackle. The quest for peace might seem daunting in a world where selfish desires often overshadow love and compassion. Yet, amid the chaos, there is hope - a belief that peace is not a distant dream but a tangible reality we can achieve.

Why Do We Exist, Indeed?

In this era of unprecedented connectivity, where technology allows us to reach across the globe with a single tap, we have a responsibility. We must uplift the marginalised, embrace the isolated, and amplify the voices of the voiceless. Let’s count our blessings and extend our hands in service to a world longing for solace.

However, attending the Peace Summit is not enough. Kim issued a call to action, reminding us we must go beyond mere attendance. We must actively promote peacebuilding and take concrete steps to foster harmony in our communities and beyond. “We can change the world, but it requires our collective effort,” she urged. “Take your role as a Peace Ambassador seriously - the world needs you more than ever.”

The path to becoming international changemakers is challenging, but we must not waver. Every hurdle we face and overcome brings us one step closer to global peace.

Know this, dear friend, we believe in you. Within you lies boundless passion and strength capable of moving mountains. As you read on and learn from the inspiring stories of the speakers at the 2024 Global Peace Summit, may you feel the call to embrace the mantle of peace and work towards a brighter tomorrow? Now is the time to act, build, and be the peacemakers the world desperately needs.

PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST

A palpable sense of anticipation filled the air at the UN Conference Room of the Global Peace Summit. Delegates from across the world gathered, all eyes on the stage where His Excellency Ambassador Walid Abu Ali, for the State of Palestine, was about to speak. His presence was commanding, and a hush fell over the room as he began his address.

“Peace is the solution; violence and war are not,” he declared, his voice resonating with conviction. The audience listened intently as Ambassador Abu Ali painted a vivid picture of the current situation in Palestine. He spoke of a land where the echoes of war had been heard for over seventy years, where the soil was stained with the blood of countless innocents.

The ambassador’s words were heavy with the weight of history. He recounted the origins of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, tracing it back to 1947 when the United Nations implemented a partition plan that led to the creation of Israel. “When Israel was created, the struggle was created,” he said, reminding the delegates that the conflict’s roots ran deep, far beyond the recent escalations.

He described the ongoing humanitarian crisis with a poignant clarity. Three million people in the West Bank, 2.5 million in the Gaza Strip, and 1.5 million in occupied lands were struggling daily for equality and basic rights. An additional 7.5 million Palestinians lived in the diaspora, disconnected from their homeland. The ambassador highlighted the difficulties of providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, a region isolated and heavily restricted by laws requiring Israeli security checks.

In his speech, Ambassador Abu Ali was unwavering in his advocacy for a two-state solution. He argued that this was the only path where both Palestinians and Israelis could enjoy freedom and coexist peacefully. He emphasised that any peace agreement must include a geographic link between Gaza and the West Bank and address the critical issue of passport delegation for Palestinians.

The ambassador’s voice softened as he addressed the human toll of the conflict. He spoke

directly to the delegates, imploring them to remember that Palestinians had shown a willingness to live peacefully alongside Israelis. Yet, extremism and violence had marred their hopes. He recounted the grim statistics: 23,000 Palestinians killed, 60,000 injured, and countless mosques, churches, schools, and hospitals destroyed. “How many more must be killed before peace is achieved?” he asked, his words echoing through the hall.

Ambassador Abu Ali outlined three immediate needs for Palestine:

• An unconditional, immediate ceasefire to end the suffering in Gaza for both Palestinians and Israelis.

• The establishment of a humanitarian corridor to provide essential aid to the homeless, the hungry, and the needy.

• A call for the international community to renew its commitment to the political process, finalising the agreement between the two states to ensure lasting peace.

As he concluded, Ambassador Abu Ali brought the conversation to a global perspective. He reminded the international community of its responsibility to look beyond the present and address the root causes of the conflict. He stressed that peace required action, not just words, and warned against double standards. “There are always two sides to a coin,” he said, urging the delegates to consider both perspectives.

As Ambassador Walid Abu Ali left the stage, the delegates erupted in applause, his message resonating deeply with all who had heard it. His speech was a powerful reminder of the urgent need for peace in the Middle East and the crucial role the international community must play in achieving it.

RISING TOGETHER

Janice Leong, the Regional Director of Humanitarian Affairs Asia, our beacon of compassion at the helm of Humanitarian Affairs, ignited the 3rd Global Peace Summit with a resounding call to action. She celebrated our commitment to humanity with unwavering conviction, hailing us as torchbearers of hope and architects of enduring peace.

Drawing from the timeless wisdom of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Janice reminded us that greatness is not confined to academic accolades or scholarly achievements. Instead, it blossoms from our hearts, where grace and love abide. She urged us to embrace the power of empathy by lending our ears to the voices of those who have endured unimaginable pain—a pivotal step towards cultivating a more compassionate world.

In the face of uncertainty and doubt, Janice implored us to stand firm in our resolve to effect change. It is precisely in these moments of questioning that our commitment to peace is tested. With unwavering courage, we must confront discomforts, challenge prejudices, and extend boundless compassion to all beings.

As stewards of peace, Janice underscored the profound responsibility that rests upon our shoulders. True compassion, she reminded us, begins with self-awareness and acceptance of our vulnerabilities. By nurturing kindness within ourselves, we lay the groundwork for genuine connection and understanding with others.

Janice emphasised the indispensable role of today’s youth in shaping the trajectory of peacebuilding. Our voices, ideas, and actions hold the transformative power to mould a world defined by harmony and solidarity. With diversity as our strength, she urged us to dismantle barriers and forge connections rooted in empathy and inclusivity.

Together, as a global community of compassionate changemakers, we stand poised to usher in a new era of peace and prosperity. Let us heed Janice’s call to action with unwavering determination and boundless optimism, knowing that our collective efforts will illuminate the path towards a brighter tomorrow.

FIRST, THEY KILLED MY FATHER

Imagine meeting a little girl named Loung Ung forty years ago. She was living on the streets, eating out of garbage cans, and sleeping wherever she could find a safe space. If you had told her then that one day she would survive and thrive, becoming a voice for peace, she would never have believed you. Loung’s journey from a child of war to a beacon of hope teaches us that thriving peace requires communal support, optimism, and a deep understanding of who we are.

Loung grew up in Cambodia, a country deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions. Her early years were marked by the warmth of family and the joy of learning. Her father, a military police officer, and her mother, who cared for her three brothers and three sisters, instilled in them the importance of education. Every day, they studied Chinese, Cambodian, French, and English; on Sundays, they would picnic with relatives. This idyllic life was shattered on April 17, 1975, when the Khmer Rouge took over Phnom Penh.

“Get out; the Americans are coming, and if you don’t leave, you will all die!” blared the bullhorns. Little Loung, just five years old, didn’t understand who the Americans were, but she packed up and left with her family. Within 72 hours, the city of two million people was emptied.

Loung’s family was constantly on the run for the next three years and eight months. The Khmer Rouge regime, which aimed to create a classless agrarian society, targeted anyone different or seen as a threat. Educated people, professionals, and those with multicultural backgrounds were especially vulnerable. Being well-educated and multicultural, Loung’s family was marked as enemies of the state. They moved from camp to camp, where everyone from six to sixty years old was forced to work in labour camps.

One by one, their rights were stripped away. Loung vividly remembers when soldiers dumped their clothes in the square and burned anything that wasn’t traditionally Cambodian. She felt helpless as her family’s identity was set on fire. Her parents couldn’t protect her; speaking up could mean death for them all. As doctors, lawyers, teachers, and

even those who wore glasses disappeared, Loung learned the harsh reality of silence and survival.

The most painful moment came when soldiers took her father away. She knew in her heart she would never see him again. He said goodbye to each family member under a sky ablaze with the colours of a beautiful sunset, but all Loung saw was a hellish landscape of loss and despair.

Wars don’t end with the last gunshot or the signing of a peace treaty. For survivors, the war continues in their dreams, everyday encounters, and the sounds around them. Loung shared that peace is not something that happens; it requires work. It’s not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, family, and personal healing.

“Peace is not automatic. Peace requires work,” she reminded the delegates. To be successful in peacebuilding, one must understand their motivation. For Loung, it was to be a decent human being and to live in a way that would make her parents proud. Peace, she said, must be cultivated from within. It’s about not passing on trauma and finding internal healing.

As young people, promoting peacebuilding is urgent and vital. Attending a Peace Summit is a start, but it’s not enough. We must take action, promote peacebuilding, and support one another in these efforts.

Loung’s story teaches us that acting with diplomacy, civility, generosity, and gratitude can create peace within ourselves and our global community. Each of us has the strength to become a peacemaker. We can move mountains, mend hearts, and weave a tapestry of tranquillity across the globe. Let’s embrace this call to action and work tirelessly to build a brighter, more peaceful tomorrow.

REIGNING BLOOD

Thirty years after the horrors of the Rwandan Genocide, Antoinette Mutabazi shared her story with a room full of young delegates, urging them to become changemakers. Her tale, filled with sadness, tears, and blood, bore the weight of shame and hopelessness. Yet, amidst the darkness, Mutabazi found a glimmer of hope for the future. She broke the cycle of pain by sharing her story, ensuring that future generations would learn from her experiences and strive for a better world.

The violence between the Tutsi and Hutus began in 1959, fuelled by politicians broadcasting messages of extermination. Tutsis were dehumanised and labelled as “cockroaches,” stripping them of their humanity. “If you call them any kind of name to discriminate against them, you are doing something that is the worst of humanity,” Mrs. Mutabazi’s words echoed around the room. The Hutus’ ideology eliminated any shred of human identity for the Tutsis.

As a child, Mrs. Mutabazi dreamt of becoming a doctor. But with each discriminatory word spoken against her, her confidence eroded. Her dreams were torn apart, and she was reduced to feeling like a cockroach, treated differently and marginalised. In 1992, during a peace agreement with the UN, Rwandan Colonel Bagosora chillingly declared, “We are going to prepare for the Apocalypse of Tutsis.” This marked the beginning of the genocide ideology.

The Hutus’ hateful teachings permeated schools, targeting children as young as eleven. Mutabazi recalls the harrowing questions asked in class: “What do you do when you see a human, a Tutsi? You crush them. You crush their dream.” After the plane crash that killed the Rwandan President, the 100 days of terror began. Her father instructed her and her siblings to separate to increase their chances of survival. As Hutus began searching for “cockroaches,” she fled her home, witnessing unimaginable horrors along the way.

She found temporary shelter with her father and brothers at a friend’s house, but they were constantly moving. When they heard that people were coming to kill the “cockroaches,” they had to separate again. Mutabazi sought refuge in a Catholic church, hoping it would act as

a sanctuary. But even there, surrounded by others starving and desperate, she couldn’t escape the terror. “I can’t remember how many times I stayed among dead bodies,” she recalled.

Determined to survive, she moved from the church, covering her face to avoid detection. She walked through bushes at night, searching for shelter, even stinking toilets. “Give me a stinking filled toilet to sit in if no one will see me to come and kill me,” she said. The toilet was in front of a football field where men boasted about their killings and rapes, mentioning names she recognised. Terrified, she remained hidden and silent.

While moving to a new location, she found her six-year-old brother Emil. A grenade fragment had hit him, exposing part of his skull. “I want water,” he said, recognising his sister. But she had no water and had to leave him behind to avoid being caught by the killers. Her heart broke as she abandoned him.

Captured by a group of Hutus, she joined a queue of Tutsis waiting to be executed. As the line grew shorter, a commotion about a bank robbery diverted the killers. She escaped, but the images of bodies and brutality haunted her. “The worst thing on that day when I ran away from the queue was to see the dogs holding a piece of body from someone,” she said. She witnessed unimaginable atrocities but still clung to her humanity.

Despite the horrors, Mutabazi found hope and courage. Her first job after the genocide in 2004 involved documenting how Tutsis were killed and learning about their final moments and dreams. She studied Swahili, went to Tanzania to learn English, and faced constant questions about her identity. She wanted people to see her as human, not as a survivor or a killer.

She came to the United Kingdom to learn about peace and reconciliation. Meeting her uncle, a Hutu imprisoned for his actions, she chose forgiveness. “The journey of forgiveness I had wasn’t easy, but it was possible for me and brought healing,” she said.

Mutabazi ended her speech with a powerful message for the young delegates. “You’re an amazing, vibrant generation!” she exclaimed. “Ending racism and discrimination and building a more peaceful world means following the lead of young people like you all who are gathered here. You are the strongest, the loudest voice calling for change! So keep your voice raised!” She urged them to keep their hearts open, channel their passion into every action, and use their creativity and courage to find solutions. Together, they could build a more peaceful world.

HOPE NOT FEAR

“In every conflict, the first casualty is the truth,” Hassan Akkad told the delegates at the Global Peace Summit. With passion and sincerity, he shared his journey, emphasising the power of filmmaking in uncovering and sharing truths.

Hassan was born in Saudi Arabia but moved back to Damascus, Syria, where he grew up during the happy days of his youth. He fondly remembered when he and his friends would drive for hours to Beirut for Big Macs and sneak into gigs. But as he grew older, the world around him began to change. “What happened in Syria is important to know; it’s one of the biggest crises in modern history,” Hassan explained.

Before 2011, Syria witnessed numerous crises. The Anglo-American invasion of Iraq in 2000 brought one million Iraqi refugees to Syria. The 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel led tens of thousands of Lebanese people to seek asylum in Syria. Puzzled by the influx, Hassan thought, “We’re full!” He didn’t understand why people would leave their countries until he experienced it himself.

Syria’s conflict was a continuation of the Arab Spring, a series of protests demanding freedom, peace, democracy, and basic human rights. The government tightly controlled everything, from businesses to personal conversations. Even making a joke about the regime could land someone in prison. Hassan, who loved his job as a teacher, found himself compelled to act when seven students in Daraa were arrested for writing “People want the downfall of the regime” on their school walls. The police tortured these children, removing their fingernails. When their parents demanded their return, they were told to have more children or send their wives to the police for “help.”

This incident sparked the Syrian uprising. Recognising his skills in English and filmmaking, Hassan began documenting the protests. He filmed and posted videos online under a fake name, determined to show the world the truth. During one protest, he was arrested. “I spent my gap year in prison,” he joked, despite the severe injuries he sustained. His crime was protesting. Friends urged him to leave Syria, but he wanted to stay. After being arrested

again and spending two weeks in solitary confinement, he knew he had to leave.

Hassan embarked on a journey through Lebanon, Egypt, and Turkey, hoping to return to Syria when it improved. But in 2015, when Putin and the Russian army intervened, he knew he had to find a new home. He found a smuggler who took him from Turkey to Greece on a rubber dinghy. The first boat sank, but undeterred, he tried again. Despite being attacked by the Greek coast guards, he made it to Vienna, Hungary, and finally, England. He received approval to remain for ten months, eventually becoming a British citizen.

Throughout his harrowing journey, Hassan filmed everything with a GoPro. He wanted the world to see the reality of the refugee experience. His film, “Exodus: Our Journey to Europe,” won an Emmy and a Bafta. He continued to use his platform to tell stories, producing “The Swimmers,” a film that became one of Netflix’s most watched.

“Hope is great if it’s active hope and not passive hope,” Hassan told the delegates. He stressed the importance of storytelling in fostering understanding and peace. Despite the bleakness of the world, with ongoing massacres and genocides, he urged the delegates to be honest and proactive. “What can you write? What can you say? Who can you speak to? What can you do in your work to build peace?” he asked. “Focus on what you can do in your little community.”

Hassan’s story is a powerful reminder that hope and action can bring about change even in the darkest times. His journey from Syria to global recognition as a filmmaker and activist demonstrates the impact of resilience and the importance of sharing our stories to inspire and mobilise positive change.

FROM SALAM TO SHALOM

“Salam Alaikum. Peace, God’s mercy, and blessing be upon you. This is how Palestinians greet each other,” began Nivine Sandouka, her voice resonating with warmth and hope. “Shalom, Peace. This is how Israelis greet each other.” With these simple words, Nivine bridged the gap between the two worlds, emphasising the shared desire for peace that transcends borders and conflicts. She stood before the delegates at the Global Peace Summit, a beacon of hope amidst the ongoing strife in Gaza and the West Bank.

Nivine, a passionate peace activist from East Jerusalem and the Regional Head of the Alliance for Middle East Peace, highlighted the importance of recognising our shared humanity. “We are all humans and should live in peace,” she affirmed. Despite the relentless bombings and hardships faced by civilians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023, Nivine’s message was clear: peace is not only possible but essential.

She spoke of the severe challenges faced by Palestinians due to the Israeli government’s restrictions on food, water, electricity, and basic necessities. War has no winners, and civilians bear the brunt of the ongoing conflict. Nivine lamented the lack of international intervention, pointing out that human rights often stop at borders, races, and religions.

For Nivine, peace is deeply personal. As a mother, she is driven by the hope that her son and all Palestinian children can lead normal, peaceful lives. She warned that without immediate action, the future would be a “blood-soaked path” of endless destruction. Yet, despite the grim realities, Nivine remains steadfast in her advocacy for peace and justice.

She addressed a common question: were there peace activists in Israel on October 7th? The answer, she explained, is complex. The conflict between Israel and Palestine has persisted for over 55 years, with minimal support from the international community. She compared the situation to Northern Ireland, where significant international funding helped foster peace. In contrast, efforts to unite Palestinians and Israelis receive far less support, yet activists continue their vital work.

Nivine stressed that peacebuilding is more than just talking; it requires serious commitment

and emotional effort. The physical and emotional walls between Israelis and Palestinians are formidable, but activists strive to break down these barriers. Removing stereotypes and misconceptions creates opportunities for meaningful interaction and understanding.

“We have always warned that this lack of interaction, this demonisation of the other, will only bring bloodshed,” she cautioned. Policy changes and tense interactions often hinder peace efforts, but peacemakers persist because they believe in the cause. They are driven by a desire to develop strategies that make a real difference.

Before October 7th, Nivine had organised two major events. One focused on strategising how to give Gaza’s youth a normal life, and the other was a Palestinian women’s movement aiming to start peace negotiations. The attacks shattered their hopes, leading to a crisis of faith in their work. “We started questioning: Are we doing the right thing? Does peace really exist?” she recalled. But despite the violence, activists knew they had to act.

The term “co-resist the occupation together” became their rallying cry. They distributed food parcels and sought alternative shelters amidst the chaos. Despite attempts to silence them, the activists continued their peaceful work, using technology to stay connected and coordinate their efforts.

Nivine emphasised the crucial role of Civil Society in long-term planning. “Civil Society has often neglected peace in negotiations,” she said. Addressing the psychological and social traumas of Palestinians and Israelis is essential for lasting peace. International peacemakers must “restart a meaningful political process that can lead to a just and sustainable peace.”

She concluded with a powerful reminder of the value of human life. “The only path to a safe and secure future for everyone in the Middle East and the entire world, for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, starts with the belief that every human life is of equal value and ends with two states: Palestine and Israel, sharing land and peace from the river to the sea.”

Nivine Sandouka’s words echoed long after she left the stage. They were a call to action for young peacemakers to rise and build a world where love and peace prevail over hatred and conflict.

NURTURING COMPASSION

Jennifer Nadel, the Director of Compassion in Politics and award-winning journalist, began her speech by telling her family story. Her Jewish father grew up in Vienna, Austria when the Nazis came to power. He was put on the Kinder Transport with 10,000 other Jewish children to safety in Britain. The transport was organised not by the government but by a group of volunteers. They recognised that the government wasn’t acting and so the volunteers decided to organise their collective efforts to save the lives of the 10,000 children. “It’s because of that act of compassion that I still exist today,” Jennifer said.

“I am so horrified and heartbroken by what I see happening in Gaza,” she told the delegates. We are the generation that can prevent horrific acts of cruelty from happening by seeking to build peace. We see global leaders today talk about how terrible climate change is, how terrible wars are, and how millions of people die from causes that we could have prevented. We’re sorry! They say, but we won’t take action to prevent the suffering from happening. Inaction can make us very angry, but we need to be careful with how we embrace that anger and make sure to use anger as a positive engine for change.

She started her working life as a barrister and lawyer and then went to work in journalism. She wanted to show an audience of millions where people went wrong, what they were doing wrong, and what was right. “I was saying that I am right, and I reduced things to a very simple binary situation of right and wrong,” she admitted to the delegates. “Unfortunately, the truth is often a lot more complex”. Like a sugar addiction that momentarily satisfies our sweet tooth, being right and pointing out the wrong gave her consolation for the suffering she saw in the world. Quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Jennifer reminded us that “Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that”. So, too, can hate not drive out hate. Only love can do that.

“If we want peace, it is not enough to know that others are wrong because that perpetuates the conflict of many of us who are on the side of Peace,” Jennifer warns. To create successful peace, we cannot think in the binary extremes of right and wrong; we must be compassionate towards others through love. It is extremely tough not to resort to hate with appalling, atrocious things are happening all around the world. Hate can make us feel

stronger, giving us energy and power and making us feel like we are right and they are wrong. “But that’s fuelling the conflict,” Jennifer told us. Like a sugar addiction that gives a sugar high followed quickly by a crash, hate cannot provide long-term solutions for peace. The energy we get from anger can drive us to the Ballot Box. Nonetheless, anger is not hate. “If we don’t express our anger healthily and cleanly, it can turn into rage, and it can turn into resentment, and it can turn into hate,” she said to the delegates.

What, then, is the catalyst for peace? “Compassion,” Jennifer says. Everyone has compassion as young as 18 months old, which our culture can cultivate or amplify. How do we grow compassion? Through the following three-stage process.

1. Awareness of other’s suffering. We cannot be compassionate if we do not know that someone else is suffering. “If we shut ourselves off from knowledge of the Holocaust, we’re going to find it a lot harder to understand the suffering that is driving the hate that we’re seeing right now in the Middle East”.

Hoping to create an illustration for delegates to understand compassion better, Jennifer quoted the following thought experiment from philosopher Peter Singer. Imagine walking through the woods when you see a small pool of water with a toddler face down in the pool. To save the child in the pool, you must go up to your waist in water. There is no one else around to help. What do you do? Everyone in the conference room raised their hand when she asked if we would save the child.

What if your walk through the woods was a shortcut to an important job interview? You would be wearing your nicest clothes and in a rush. What do we do? We save the toddler because “nothing is more important than life” Jennifer explained.

2. Empathy for other suffering. “The truth is that other people’s children are dying and drowning every second of the day, and we can save them”, but we’re not. We need to be empathetic to the problems in the world if we want to make a difference as global peacemakers.

We spend money buying coffee at stores when the same cost of coffee is enough to save the life of someone elsewhere in the world. This creates an empathy gap, and “our job as peacemakers is to close that gap.” Peacemakers cannot let the distance between suffering affect our empathy.

3. Taking action to alleviate suffering. We can make a difference just like we would go to the pond to save the drowning toddler.

“Compassion is rooted in the equality of every single human knowing. That every human has equal worth no matter our relationship to them and no matter what side of a conflict they lie on,” Jennifer said, “it is a moral necessity”. We must care for everyone equally. Every human being has worth. “Compassion gives us a moral compass,” she told us, and we need to decipher if what we are doing takes us towards compassion or away from it, towards

peace or away from peace.

We cannot lose faith in the peace process and must act. Her solution to fight against the approaching polarisation was a three-step process. Firstly, by connecting with a human being at a real level by being deep and vulnerable. Exchange numbers and contacts to connect at a global scale. The second thing we can do is locate what we can do in our local communities to make a positive impact. Thirdly, we can choose to act by locating solutions. We can choose to stand up in our role as peacemakers.

TAPESTRY OF HUMANITY

Wenn Weidman, an international peace activist, embarked on a journey of peace guided by the simplicity of haiku poetry. Drawing inspiration from John Paul Lederach’s words, she unveiled the profound depth of peacebuilding with just a few syllables.

In her narrative, peace was likened to a haiku, a delicate balance of simplicity and complexity, where every word held the weight of a thousand meanings. Through the lens of moral imagination, Weidman urged her audience to embark on a quest for understanding, to embrace curiosity, and to seek out the unfamiliar voices that whisper stories of difference.

With vulnerability as her compass, she recounted unlikely encounters where enemies became friends over cups of tea and shared tales of philosophy. In Tajikistan, amidst the ravages of war, a professor and a warlord found common ground in their love for Sufism and poetry, forging a bond that transcended their ideological chasms.

Echoing these narratives of courage and compassion, Weidman shared anecdotes of young peacemakers facing adversity with grace and empathy. In the face of assassination attempts and harassment, they responded not with retaliation but with gestures of hospitality and recognition, sowing seeds of understanding in barren lands.

Through these stories, Weidman unveiled the essence of peacebuilding: relationships. Like yeast in bread dough, relationships catalyse the process of peace, infusing it with warmth and vitality. But like any baker preparing to knead dough, peacebuilders must first organise their tools, mapping out a path towards harmony and understanding.

So, armed with curiosity and vulnerability, the delegates left the room inspired to embark on their journeys of peacebuilding, knowing that in the tapestry of humanity, every thread of connection brings us closer to the elusive fabric of peace.

PEACE ODYSSEY

The Empowering Peace Forum was not merely a gathering; it was a convergence of minds, a sanctuary for those who dared to dream of a world bathed in the gentle glow of peace.

The forum panel, comprised of four luminaries from the Peace Summit, radiated wisdom and compassion as they took the stage. Each speaker bore the scars of conflict but wore them as badges of resilience, their voices carrying the weight of experience and the warmth of empathy. With unwavering conviction, they shared their stories – tales of triumph over adversity, bridges built where walls once stood, and hope rekindled in the darkest times. Their words were not mere rhetoric but beacons of guidance illuminating the path towards a brighter future.

The delegates, who would become Peace Ambassadors, absorbed every word and gesture, knowing that they carried the torch of their wisdom into the world. Their insights echoed in each soul, igniting a fire of determination to embark on their own Peace Odyssey.

Throughout the forum, the diversity of perspectives and the unity of purpose bound the delegates together. They were not just delegates but warriors of peace, armed not with swords but with the power of understanding and the resolve to make a difference.

The forum was a platform for dialogue and a crucible of transformation. In its crucible, fear melted away, replaced by courage; ignorance gave way to enlightenment, and apathy replaced empathy.

As the forum drew to a close, a profound sense of gratitude washed over the attendees – gratitude for the speakers who illuminated our path, the delegates who shared their stories, and the opportunity to be a part of something greater than oneself.

Armed with the wisdom gleaned from the Empowering Peace Forum, the delegates stepped out into the world, ready to embrace their roles as Peace Ambassadors. Though the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, we believe the delegates will carry with them the indomitable spirit of those who came before and the unwavering belief that peace is not just a distant dream but a tangible reality waiting to be realised.

UNITED BY DESTINY

Humanitarian Affairs Asia unveiled an inspiring initiative that captured everyone’s imagination: the Peace Mail.

On the final morning of the summit, each delegate received a postcard adorned with a beautiful artwork of a dove and the words “United By Destiny” elegantly scripted. Delegates were encouraged to write simple messages of goodwill. The hall buzzed with the sound of pens on postcards, and delegates exchanged smiles and nods as they composed their messages.

Once finished, the delegates approached the Peace Mailbox and dropped their postcards inside. The soft thud of paper hitting the Peace Mailbox symbolized the quiet yet profound act of reaching across borders.

The Peace Mailbox quickly became a hub of interaction as the summit concluded. Delegates gathered around it, sharing stories and eagerly awaiting the moment they could draw a postcard from the box. At the designated hour, a small bell rang, and anticipation lit up their faces as they formed a circle.

One by one, they reached into the Peace Mailbox and drew a postcard. Each card contained a unique message, offering a new perspective and a glimpse into a different life. As they read their

chosen messages, smiles spread, and some eyes glistened with tears of connection and understanding. Reading a stranger’s heartfelt words forged an instant bond, transcending language and nationality.

Determined to maintain these new connections, each delegate was tasked with writing back to the person whose card they had drawn. The exchange of Peace Mail letters became a cherished gift, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. This initiative knitted together a global network of peacebuilders who were no longer just participants but friends united by destiny.

Humanitarian Affairs Asia’s Peace Mail initiative achieved more than anticipated. It transformed a gathering of individuals into a community bound by shared hopes and dreams. As the delegates returned to their respective countries, they carried with them the words and wishes of their new friends, ready to continue their peace-building journeys together, United by Destiny.

Delegate MUSINGS

Jeremy David Joosten

Trinity Western University

Canada

BEYOND DOUBT

When I first heard about the 3rd Global Peace Summit, I couldn’t help but wonder: what exactly is peace, and can we truly create it? How could a global gathering like this make a difference for those suffering from conflict and despair worldwide? These questions weighed heavily on my mind as I contemplated attending the Humanitarian Affairs Peace Summit.

Yet, as I immersed myself in the wisdom and stories of accredited peace activists alongside 350 delegates from 47 countries, I found myself on a journey of discovery. My scepticism transformed into curiosity and inspiration as I forged connections with fellow delegates from

Austria, South Africa, Ireland, and Australia – friendships that endure to this day as we continue our shared peace-making mission.

Through the Summit, I learned that the path to peace is fraught with challenges. War, famine, greed, and dehumanisation cast long shadows, but amidst these trials, I found hope in the unity of fellow activists. Together, we believe in the power of youth to effect positive change and in our collective strength to confront the seemingly insurmountable obstacles before us.

My scepticism proved unfounded, as the Summit exceeded all expectations. In just three days, my perspective shifted, and I found myself drawn inexorably towards a new calling – that of a global peacemaker. With newfound determination and a network of allies spanning the globe, I am confident in our ability to make a difference.

Michelle Cheung

The University of Sydney

DEFINING PEACE

The 3rd Global Peace Summit has profoundly altered my life. Representing the University of Sydney and Australia on the global stage was a privilege I will always cherish. As a delegate, I forged deep connections with many university students from around the world, expanding my network to include delegates from 47 countries. Entering the Summit, I was unsure of what to expect. Yet, the three days of the conference proved to be both thought-provoking and emotionally stirring. The authenticity of the speakers, who shared real stories from their lives, made the Summit truly extraordinary. Through these encounters, I have cultivated personal and professional relationships that transcend borders as my fellow delegates embark on their journeys armed with newfound knowledge and understanding to champion global peace. This experience has prompted me to ponder the nature of peace and our role in fostering it. How can we, as individuals, contribute to peace in our communities? I believe it begins with building relationships and sharing our stories to foster empathy and understanding. Thanks to the Summit, I feel empowered to embrace my Humanitarian Affairs Peace Ambassador role.

Desne Montinique

Coreneluis

University of Johannesburg

South Africa

EMBRACING UBUNTU

The 3rd Global Peace Summit was a transformative experience that underscored the importance of building a more inclusive world. It brought to life the Southern African concept of “Ubuntu” – which means a person is a person through others. This idea was famously emphasised by Nelson Mandela, who said, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is the difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead,” resonated deeply with me during the summit. The conference taught me that our existence is intrinsically linked to others and highlighted the importance of positively impacting the lives of those around us. Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, united by the common goal of peace, revealed the true essence of empathy, compassion, and responsibility. I learned that unity and collaboration are powerful tools in our quest for a more peaceful world. The summit was a platform for individuals from different cultures to share their stories and work together for humanity’s betterment. Engaging with these articulate and inspiring individuals allowed me to understand the various perspectives on global peace. This exposure reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of unity and compassion in peacebuilding.

Ethan Naidu

National University of Singapore

BRUSHSTROKES OF RESILENCE

Attending the 3rd Global Peace Summit was an enlightening voyage through the intricate landscapes of human resilience and peacebuilding. Each speaker wielded words and stories like brushstrokes, crafting a vibrant tableau of survival, hope, and humanity’s indomitable spirit.

The Summit’s collective narrative extended beyond individual tales, highlighting our shared responsibility to cultivate peace. It served as a powerful reminder that peacebuilding is an active endeavour, requiring understanding, education, and advocacy rather than merely the absence of conflict. The convergence of these diverse narratives painted a compelling portrait, illustrating both the complexity and the intrinsic importance of peacebuilding.

Leaving the Summit, I carried a profound sense of duty to engage in global peace efforts, enriched by the invaluable lessons imparted by these extraordinary individuals. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Humanitarian Affairs Asia for this enriching experience.

Ma Hoi Lam, Christine

Shue Yan University

Hong Kong

THE RIPPLE EFFECT

The Global Peace Summit was the highlight of my final year at university, transforming my outlook on social work and life. As a social work student, my primary focus has always been fostering peace within communities, families, and individuals. The broader concept of world peace had seemed like a distant, almost abstract idea. But this summit changed everything.

The summit was a whirlwind of impactful and heart-wrenching stories. The Speaker’s insights were informative and deeply moving, compelling me to rethink my role in promoting peace. The opening ceremony was particularly poignant. A delegate read a letter from children in Gaza, their words echoing with cries and prayers from a land ravaged by war. It was as if these children were standing before me, their voices piercing through the comfortable bubble of my existence. It struck me hard—while my life is filled with opportunities, many will never have such chances. This realisation weighed heavily on my heart and left me questioning: What can I do for these children? How can I contribute to peace?

The stories shared were a testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable suffering. They highlighted the profound impact of war and conflict, reminding us to cherish the

peace and stability we often take for granted. Living in Hong Kong, a relatively stable and prosperous society, I realised how fortunate I am. But with this privilege comes a responsibility—to do more, to strive for peace on a broader scale.

While I might not be able to be physically present in conflict zones, there are countless ways to contribute: staying informed, raising awareness, donating, participating in relevant activities, and advocating for change. The summit also underscored the importance of understanding that peace is about resolving national conflicts and fostering harmony in our immediate environments—within our communities, families, and ourselves.

President of Trinity Western University Student Association, Jeremy Joosten, resonated deeply with me: “I can do so much, but we can do so much more!” It became clear that achieving peace requires collective effort. It demands that we continually reflect on our actions and attitudes, maintain an openness to dialogue, embrace diverse perspectives, and seek consensus and conflict resolution.

We must strive to be advocates for peace, embodying respect, tolerance, and empathy in our daily lives and encouraging others to do the same. Each of us has an important role; together, we can bring more harmony and hope to the world. The Global Peace Summit ignited a fire within me, a commitment to contribute to a peaceful world, starting with myself and extending to the farthest corners of the globe.

Nur Ernira

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

ENVISIONING PEACE

Attending the 3rd Global Peace Summit in Bangkok from January 10th to 12th, 2024, was a life-changing experience that profoundly shaped my perspective as a student.

The first day was incredibly impactful, featuring powerful speeches by Ambassador Walid Abu Ali of the State of Palestine, Palestinian peace activist Nivine Sandouka, and Loung Ung, a survivor of the Cambodian genocide. Their stories and insights deeply moved me, broadening my understanding of peace and its intricate nuances.

A significant realisation from their speeches was that peace is more than the absence of conflict. It involves embracing and accommodating diverse perspectives. The speakers emphasised that peace treaties often signify diplomatic relations rather than genuine reconciliation. This was particularly evident in the context of Israel and Palestine, where true peace requires addressing the root causes of conflict and striving for justice and understanding for all.

As a student without prior fieldwork experience, the summit was a transformative learning journey. It deepened my comprehension of peace work, highlighting the importance of ongoing effort, empathy, and commitment. This understanding

will guide my future endeavours in peacebuilding, ensuring they are respectful of and responsive to local contexts.

The summit also provided a glimpse into humanitarianism, helping me understand what it truly takes to be an active and purposeful humanitarian. Pursuing this path has always been my dream, and the experience gave me a clearer vision of its challenges and rewards. The insights and knowledge gained from the conference and the delegates I met have enriched my academic journey and strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to humanitarian efforts. In conclusion, the 3rd Global Peace Summit was an unforgettable experience that profoundly impacted my views on peace and humanitarianism. It highlighted the complexities and challenges of achieving true peace and underscored the critical role of culturally informed, strategic, and persistent efforts. As a student, I left the conference with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to contributing to peacebuilding in meaningful ways in the future.