Tag Archives: South Asia

Rachna Sharma: thought leader for world peace

. . WOMEN’S EQUALITY . .

Special to CPNN by Jalsut Luthra

Rachna Sharma, the founder of Phuro Innovations (India) is a popular political peace expert, social entrepreneur and speaker. 

It was her journey at Harvard Business School that gave her the clarity to articulate her purpose, a place where people empower and peel the onion of self-awareness. That is the most profound thing that ever happened to Rachna. Since then she has been contributing as a thought leader for world peace. 

Rachna has compiled her views and supported them with published research about the nations which received freedom around the same time as India, and how those countries rank on the global indices of Peace. She shows how these nations lifted themselves out of poverty and conflict, and how they participated in global institutions and campaigns to benefit their people. 

World Peace is a very wide subject and one has to take up pressing issues as goals and contribute to it. That is why this year she is focused on South Asia. 

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Question related to this article:

Do women have a special role to play in the peace movement?

Where in the world can we find good leadership today?

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Honours, Awards & Volunteer Work

Rachna was recognized as “LinkedIn Power Profile – Social Impact in 2018” making her amongst the top 73 profiles in India. Rachna has co-authored a book “Globalization and Voices from Indian Practitioners” in 2013 . Rachna also volunteered as ambassador for Pashmina Goat Project of Kashmir Ink foundation. She has volunteered and served on the Board of Gift Foundation an initiative of Mr. Sam Beard who in the capacity of public affairs advisor served several US Presidents from former Presidents Nixon, Ford, Clinton, Regan & Bush 

Rachna was born in Kishtwar Jammu & Kashmir, one of the most conflicted geographies in the world. It was her early life exposure to conflict which launched her interest in world peace.

Amidst the turmoil and migration in Jammu and Kschmir, Rachna finished her Bachelors in Hotel Management from Srinivas University in Mangalore Karnataka India. She began working In India’s tourism and hospitality industry in 2002 and served the industry till 2014. At that point she was a development director in India. 

In 2019, Rachna established Phuro Innovations to promote and further her cause of World Peace by adopting a project called “Political Peace Dialogue SAARC” (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).

The project celebrates United Nations World Peace Day, UN Peacekeeping Day and Peace Education by hosting awareness events, publishing articles, research papers, policy notes, and delivering small projects. Rachna created and delivered several prototypes in India as mentioned in Timeline  and proposed a Venn diagram of Peace   in the capacity of a Thought Leader. She co-chairs the India Chapter for Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs India since 2019, promoting innovation and leadership in India. 

Please read this article in Outlook Magazine  about her work in South Asia.

Key takeaways from high-level week and high-profile visits in Astana, Kazakhstan

TOLERANCE & SOLIDARITY .

An article from Inform Kazakhstan

Last week,(October 13 and 14), Kazakh capital Astana was drawing attention with several top-level forums and high-profile visits, reaffirming Kazakhstan’s role as a responsible player in international affairs.

The sixth summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), a meeting of heads of the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Central Asia – Russia summit are just among a few major events happening in Astana last week. More about the key takeaways from the summits is in the latest article of Kazinform.

Security and stability were key messages across many statements delivered at the summit. The need for increased cooperation, at a time when distrust and confrontations are prevailing, was also raised by delegations.

CICA

CICA, a multilateral forum for peace and security in Asia, is Kazakhstan’s initiative back in 1992. Addressing the plenary session of the sixth summit on October 13, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the growing importance of Asia in the world and its enormous resources, saying the 21st century is becoming a century of Asia, as predicted by international experts.

11 heads of state, including Azerbaijan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Palestine, Tajikistan, Russia, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan, and at least 50 delegations attending the summit had a chance to voice their individual concerns and engage in productive discussions behind the doors.

«Today CICA has 28 member states in Asia. Considering Kuwait, which joined at the Astana Summit, the organization covers 90 percent of the countries of the Asian continent. The positive and progressive dynamics in the development and expansion of CICA prove the relevance of the ideas laid down in the founding of the organization,» said Yersultan Zhanseitov, an expert at the Institute of World Economics and Politics, in an interview for this story.

According to him, basic principles on which CICA has been founded make it attractive to new members.

«Consensus decision-making, that is, the interests of absolutely every member of the organization must be considered. Voluntariness of implementation of trust measures. In recent years, CICA has significantly increased its recognition in the international arena due to the demand for and active use by its member states of CICA as a platform for multilateral political dialogue, practical international cooperation on security issues, in combating new challenges and threats, economic cooperation, environmental protection, humanitarian sphere, including the development of intercultural youth relations,» said the expert.

In fact, some of these areas will be the focus of Kazakhstan’s renewed chairpersonship at CICA for 2022-2024. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined the important directions for the development of the organization – economic dimension, cooperation in finance, environmental dimension, food security, and human-centered approach.

«Overall, it should be noted that the relevance of CICA in the modern world will continue to grow With the rapid degradation of the former architecture of international relations and the growth of confrontation and blocs, the international community is in dire need of a new system of relations, which would offer common and equal rules of conduct for all. The CICA format is unique in that it manages to bring representatives of countries with fundamental and irreconcilable differences to the negotiating table,» said Zhanseitov.

Commenting on the outcomes of the CICA summit in Astana during a press briefing on October 17, CICA Secretary-General Kairat Sarybay said the number of countries interested in CICA is growing.

«Last year, Turkmenistan was granted observer status. On the eve of the summit, CICA and the Eurasian Economic Union signed a memorandum of mutual partnership. The network of family and international relations of CICA grows, which is also one of the priorities of the presidency,» Sarybay said at a press briefing on October 17.

CICA summit adopted the Astana Statement that kicked off the transformation of CICA from a conference into a full-fledged organization.

«This means that a structured, inclusive, and open negotiation process of gradual and consensual transformation of CICA into a full-fledged regional international organization has begun. By the way, President Tokayev has always spoken about this. The current features of CICA resemble an international organization. After all, there are governing bodies, executive authorities, and structures,« said Sarybay.

CIS summit

The next day after CICA, on October 14, Astana also hosted a summit of heads of state from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). With all leaders being physically present at the summit, one of the rare moments since the pandemic began, they focused on partnership in security and humanitarian spheres.

Addressing the meeting held behind the doors in a narrow format, Tokayev briefed the leaders on the main results of the multifaceted work that Kazakhstan carried out in 2022 as a chair of CIS.

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Question related to this article:

Solidarity across national borders, What are some good examples?

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According to him, the priorities of Kazakhstan’s presidency in CIS in 2022 sought to consolidate the efforts of member states considering the current processes of global development. «Through joint work, several important initiatives aimed at expanding trade and economic cooperation, maintaining our close cultural and humanitarian ties, as well as increasing the potential and international prestige of the commonwealth were implemented. In the difficult geo-economic conditions, special attention was paid to strengthening the economic potential of the commonwealth and, above all, to implement the provisions of the CIS Economic Development Strategy until 2030,» said Tokayev.

At the enlarged meeting, Tokayev said the meeting was productive where leaders had a chance to exchange opinions on the most urgent issues.

«There was a collective desire to address these problems. Proposals from all heads of state were aimed at fully fostering bilateral and multilateral dialogue, including addressing existing conflicts on CIS space,» said Sergei Lebedev, CIS Executive Secretary. «Because we are neighbors, we must live in peace and friendship and make every effort for this to remain like this.»

Chairpersonship at CIS will go to Kyrgyzstan next year. Addressing the meeting, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov outlined his country’s priorities in the development of CIS. The priority tasks will include climate change, saying environmental and ecological issues are directly connected with security and sustainable development, direct efforts to support and develop partnership cooperation between CIS countries in transport, communications, migration policy, culture, and humanitarian sector, Kyrgyzstan will also seek to strengthen inter-parliamentary cooperation of the CIS member states.

Commenting on the outcomes of the meeting, political expert Aidar Amrebayev said security issues are most acute and sensitive in CIS space.

IWEP expert Zhumabek Sarabekov said economic issues were of equal priority for the summit participants.

«These issues are very urgent. Obviously, statements made at the session that was open follow some protocols, and sensitive topics are unlikely to be voiced. But at the same time, there are such issues. For example, the Russian economy is expected to contract by 5 percent by the end of the year, and next year, a recession is expected. The same in Belarus and Kyrgyzstan,» said the expert in an interview with a local TV channel. The economic slowdown will inevitably affect other members and rising inflation is the most obvious consequence.

«Disruption of logistical chains exacerbates the problem of inflation ad it will hit the lives of ordinary people,» he added.

Central Asia – Russia summit

At Central Asia – Russia summit the same day in Astana, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and President of Russia Vladimir Putin offered their vision of how cooperation between Central Asia and Russia should unfold.

Tokayev focused on security and stability, including unresolved border issues, and stressed the need to boost trade.

»At the current difficult stage of world history, it is more important than ever for us to have a clear and positive image of the future. I would like to present my vision of our future cooperation in the context of the following key areas. The first is security. Our countries are destined to be together. We must protect our shared history and create a unified future for the well-being of our people. The stability and security of each of our countries have a direct influence on the development of the region,» he said at the summit.

He also said the trade between Central Asian countries grew by 34 percent, exceeding $6 billion.

«It is important to remove trade barriers and avoid protectionist measures. We need to intensify efforts to develop intraregional trade. It is advisable to focus on improving the structure of trade turnover and expanding its nomenclature. At present, with the development of our industries, we can substitute many types of foreign products for each other on a mutually beneficial basis. Analysis of export-import operations shows ample opportunities in this direction,« said Tokayev.

Instability in Afghanistan was also raised by leaders, as a destabilizing factor for the region. They stressed the importance of peace-led talks in Afghanistan and the country’s involvement in infrastructure projects to rebuild its economy.

Putin commended the trade dynamics. «Overall, Russia’s interaction with the Central Asian Five is very satisfactory. In the past five years, Russia’s trade with these countries has doubled to reach US$37.1 billion. In the first six months, our trade increased by another 16 percent. It reached US$37 billion in five years and grew by 16 percent in the first half of the year alone. Russia is the leading investor in the Central Asian economies. Overall, our direct investment is about US$5 billion,» he told the meeting.

He noted new opportunities in such areas as expanding oil transportation routes, joint development of energy reserves in the Caspian Sea, providing affordable and clean natural gas vehicle fuel, building, or expanding pipelines, and increasing the sale and shipping of coal to Asian markets.

This very intense top-level week shows the diplomatic activism of Kazakhstan. It is not a new phenomenon for the country, which has for years built a solid multi-vector policy. Located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan’s policy of openness has been firm since it gained independence in 1991 but becomes ever more important in a challenging geopolitical environment as it is now.

Asia and Pacific: International Day of Peace

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION .

A survey by CPNN

We have found 64 events in 16 Asian and Pacific countries. They were listed in Google during the weeks of September 17-28 this year under the key words “International day of peace”, “Peace Day”, 国际和平日 (Chinese) and 国際平和デー (Japanese, new this year). The events also include some listed on the facebook page for the International Cities of Peace. No doubt there were also events listed on the Internet in languages other than those for which we searched.

In addition to these, there are about 125 events listed on the maps of One Day One Choir and Montessori schools singing for peace, but, with the exception of six Montessori schools listed here that sang for the first time this year, there is no indication which took place this year and which took place only in previous years.


India, Tamil Ndu, SARVAM villages

AFGHANISTAN

British actor Jude Law said Thursday in Kabul that he took part in the filming of a documentary in Afghanistan to promote the United Nations International Day of Peace, September 21. “Afghanistan is the central subject of the second documentary” that Peace One Day is currently filming. Jude Law spoke with reporters alongside Peace One Day founder, British director Jeremy Gilley, at the UN mission in Kabul. The film crew notably visited schools in Jalalabad, in eastern Afghanistan, “to see how this day for peace could save lives”, said the actor, whose stay in Afghanistan took place in the greatest secrecy for security reasons.Mr. Gilley pointed out that the first screening of this film would probably take place in Kabul “in the spring of next year”. “We want to bring this film back to where it was made,” he said, pointing out that this documentary would also be shown in some fifty countries and at festivals.

AUSTRALIA, ASCOT VALE

Centre of Melbourne Multifaith and Others Network (COMMON) invites you to International Peace Day 2022 Family Event. Feature performance by Kate Ceberano. Special guests: MUMUS Medchoir A delicious lunch will be served followed by a program with entertainment, round table discussions and presentations. The event is supported by the State Government Victoria, WIN (Women’s Interfaith Network) Foundation, Somali Community Inc and Youth for Human Rights Australia, Victoria Chapter.

AUSTRALIA, AUCHENFLOWER, QUEENSLAND

Montessori Children’s House joined Montessori schools all over the world to sing for peace on the International Day of Peace to light a candle for peace, for love, for life!

AUSTRALIA, BRAHMA KUMARIS

Brahma Kumaris online vigil for peace. This half hour peace-filled event, including messages of hope and a gentle guided meditation, will celebrate and reinforce compassion, resilience, courage and hope within each one of us, within the community – and for our world.

AUSTRALIA, BRISBANE

International Day of Peace Brisbane Peace Lecture by Megan Davis. This free event will take place at St. John’s Cathedral on September 21. Professor Megan Davis is an Aboriginal Austgralian activist and international human rights lawyer. Her talk will focus on the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

AUSTRALIA, CANBERRA

Rotary Club Canberra Burley Griffen sponsors the International Day of Peace Ceremony 21 September 2022, at the Canberra Peace Bell.

AUSTRALIA, DARWIN

On 21st of September is celebrated as the United Nations International Day of Peace. This year Consul Gulfan Afero attended the event organized by the United Nations Association of Australia – the Northern Territory Division (UNAA-NT) at the Darwin Memorial Uniting Church. The representatives from the Islamic, Christian, and Buddhist communities in Darwin as well as the representative from the Indigenous community shared their views about peace and harmony.

AUSTRALIA, MARYBOROUGH

Maryborough Rotary Peace Pole Dedication: On the International Day of Peace, celebrate the dedication of a unique Peace Pole, conceived to celebrate our past, our present, and our future as we move forward together. A Peace Pole is a hand-crafted monument that displays the message ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’ on each of its sides, usually in different languages.

AUSTRALIA, MELBOURNE

UN Peace Day Rally to protect peacemakers like Wikileaks publisher Julian Assange. State Library NAARM, 18 September, sponsored by PEN Melbourne, Writers for Peace.

AUSTRALIA, SHEPPARTON

Audio program about event, picnic for peace

AUSTRALIA, TOOWOOMBA

The Peace Day event is to celebrate United Nations International Day of Peace. This event is supported by organisations that contribute to our regions stability, peace and harmony. It is supported by United Nations Association of Australia – Queensland Branch and Toowoomba Regional Council. It has a purpose to unite our diverse community and inspire individuals to contribute to peace and harmony through making connections and raising awareness of community initiatives. On the day there will be food, entertainment, inspirational speakers and organisations that participants can meet.

BANGLADESH, DHAKA

To establish united peace, JMI Group has celebrated International Day of Peace-2022, declared by the United Nations with due dignity like every year keeping in mind the motto of this year, “End Racism, Build Peace”. On Wednesday morning, in a discussion meeting organized at the ‘Abdus Salam’ auditorium of the National Press Club, speakers highlighted the importance of observing World Peace Day with the aim of creating public opinion to achieve happiness and peace for humanity regardless of caste, religion and color, said a press release.

BANGLADESH, NOAKHALI

ORGANIZATION: Participatory Research & Action Network- PRAAN – FOCUS: Intl Peace Day – ACTION DETAILS: Organizing in solidarity with CNV Sept 21st (Wed) Int’l Day of Peace

BANGLADESH, NORTH SOUTH UNIVERSITY

The Center for Peace Studies of South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance of North South University has celebrated International Day of Peace by holding a peace peocession, releasing pigeons and planting tree at the NSU recently, said a press release.

CAMBODIA, STATEMENT OF PRIME MINISTER

Prime Minister Hun Sen says Cambodia has been actively engaging with all countries within both regional and international diplomacy frameworks to promote peace, stability and prosperity. In a public address marking the International Day of Peace on September 21, he said that as the chair of ASEAN this year, Cambodia has been steering the bloc through numerous unprecedented challenges, in line with the theme “ASEAN ACT: Addressing Challenges Together”.

CHINA, BEIJING

On September 21, on the occasion of the 41st anniversary of the International Day of Peace, the Chinese People’s Association for Peace and Disarmament (and the Disarmament Council) held a conference entitled “Practicing the Global Security Initiative and Maintaining World Peace and Stability” commemoration of the International Day of Peace. Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and President of the Chinese People’s Association for Peace and Disarmament Ma Biao, and representatives of 244 political organizations, peace organizations and security advisory organizations from around the world attended the commemorative event. 

CHINA, CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HEFEI

On Wednesday, September 21st, the CISH community observed the International Day of Peace. This is an international day of observance recognized by the United Nations and intended to be a moment for calm reflection on the importance of peace in local and global communities. Students and staff at CISH wrote positive messages about peace focused around this year’s theme of “End Racism – Build Peace”.

CHINA, STATEMENT OF PRESIDENT

On September 21, the commemoration of the 2022 International Day of Peace was held in Beijing. General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee and President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the commemorative event. Xi Jinping pointed out that at present, the international security situation is undergoing profound and complex changes, and the world has entered a new period of turbulence and change. At this important historical juncture, I put forward a global security initiative, advocating that all countries adhere to a common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security concept, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each country, abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, pay attention to the reasonable security concerns of all countries, and conduct dialogue and consultation. Settle differences and disputes between countries, share responsibility for maintaining peace, follow the path of peaceful development, and work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

INDIA, AGARTALA

Photo: Kids from a pre-school hold paper pigeons to mark the International Day of Peace in Agartala, capital city of India’s northeastern state of Tripura.

INDIA, ASSAM

The NSS PG Unit of Dibrugarh University celebrated the International Day of Peace on 21st September 2022 at Bishnurabha hall. A talk on the role of volunteers in making a peaceful society was delivered by Dr. Kaustubh Kumar Deka, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Dibrugarh University. Around 150 volunteers and students participated in the celebration.

INDIA, BANGALORE

Rotary Club of Bangalore will observe World Peace Day on September 21, at Rotary House of Friendship, Lavelle Road. . . . The evening programme will have sessions by Nobel Peace laureate Mahithi Bharatesh, who works with the United Nations World Food Programme, and N Parthsarathi, who has served with the Indian Foreign Service for more than three decades. Artists G Subra and Shirley Mathew will paint their idea of peace, and fusion band Akhandha will perform.

INDIA, BHOPAL

Fifteen students of Bachelor of Physical Education and Sports (BPES) course visited hospitals, schools-colleges, social institutions, government offices, religious places and public places on cycle and informed people about the importance of World Peace Day.

INDIA, BHUBANESWAR

International Day of Peace was celebrated at Blossoms school here yesterday. To mark the day, several activities were planned in the school. The new look to the ‘Peace Wall’, the open discussion on respecting and accepting others’ opinions, the peace-based crafts and the paintings of the peace symbols were just few such activities taken up by the students. Some cultural programs were also performed by the junior wing.

INDIA, GANDHI NAGAR

Jammu and Kashmir Bharat Scouts and Guides celebrated ‘International Peace Day’ by holding a programme at SHQ, Gandhi Nagar, here today. ID Soni, former State Commissioner (S) J&K Bharat Scouts and Guides was the chief guest, while Atual Kumar, Joint Director Youth Services and Sports Jammu was the special guest on the occasion. All the dignitaries took active part and gave their views on the Day under the theme “End Racism and Build Peace” in a very impressive and touching manner

INDIA, GOA

The theme for International day of peace was “End Racism Build Peace”. Vidya Vikas Academy celebrated this occasion by conducting a special assembly. A skit on peace was performed by the students which enlightened us on the importance of peace. Students also performed two songs highlighting the theme and stressed on peace being the need of the hour. There was a short quiz conducted for the audience on this theme. The objective of this assembly was to enlighten the students about the importance of peace, to heal the world and make it a better place.

INDIA, JAMMU

NSS GGM Science College celebrated International Day of Peace on September 21. . . . . NSS volunteers made a Peace wall pasting posters and slogans. They carried out signature campaign. The theme focuses on promoting harmony among the various communities living. The theme encourages embracing diversity with peace and acceptance. International Day of Peace promotes inclusiveness, trust, and cooperation to bring peace and harmony among societies. The co-existence of the individuals is the main aim behind the celebration of International Day of Peace. The day also recognizes all the efforts to have been working and have worked towards building a culture of peace.

INDIA, CHÜMOUKEDIMA, NAGALAND

The Department of Political Science, St Joseph University (SJU), Chümoukedima observed the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, 2022 themed ‘End Racism, Build Peace’ on September 21. The occasion was marked with a talk by Dr Kethoser Aniu Kevuchusa, Freelance Speaker and Academic on the topic, ‘Peace in the context of Naga Political Conflict’, the university stated in a press release.  . . . . Results of class-based competitions on flag designing and sketch/painting held the day prior, were also declared and winners felicitated.

INDIA, NAGPUR

On 21st September, 2022, the UN International Day of Peace, India Peace Centre hosted its signature annual event, the IPC Bicycle Rally For Peace. The Bicycle Rally for Peace is a brainchild of Dr. Rawal, and has been held every year since 2013. After a break of two years, due to Covid, this year the Rally was conceived on a much bigger scale. Online Registrations were opened 10 days in advance to facilitate easy registrations. The people of Nagpur gave a tremendous response to the rally, and registrations were closed after crossing 1050 registrations!

INDIA, NEW DELHI, ARDEE SCHOOL

FOCUS: Intl Peace Day – ACTION DETAILS: Creating awareness by organising a march.

INDIA, NEW DELHI, SRRO

A National Seminar organized by Social Reforms & Research Organization on the occasion of Vishwa Shanti Diwas (World Peace Day) in series of Vishwa Dharm Samvad. Subject: INDIA’S GROWING ROLE IN WORLD PEACE OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

INDIA, NEW DELHI, SAARC
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Under the leadership of Rachna Sharma, Founder – Phuro Innovations, and Co-Chair – Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs India – an evening with an event titled “Political Peace Dialogue – SAARC” will be organized on 21 September 2022, 0500 PM onwards for supporting World Peace Day at Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, Saket, New Delhi.

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Question for this article

What has happened this year (2022) for the International Day of Peace?

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INDIA, NONEY

On the occasion of International Day of Peace, Noney Battalion of Assam Rifles (East) organised an awareness programme on Wednesday at T Khonom village as a part of its continuous efforts to promote peace, harmony and stability in the area.

 . . .

The event was attended by village authorities, villagers, youth organisations of T Khonom village and neighbouring village of Pholjang and school children of Thanglongbung UJB School, T Khonom.

 . . 

Troops of Kotlen Company, also organised a painting competition for children of all age groups under the theme of International Peace Day to inculcate essence of peace and its importance in human life in young minds, through means of colours and creative imagination.

INDIA, PUNE

World Peace Day was celebrated at Victorious Kidss Educares (VKE) on September 21, to cultivate attributes of global citizenship in the students. Following the theme, the students participated in Peace Match’, a sports venture for a cause, ‘Peace Tree’, an activity curating an installation with artistic responses of students with ideas of peace, ‘Peace Yoga’, observed through students doing Surya Namaskara and ‘Peace Symbol’ curated by the grade 8 students where they created a human chain to form Peace Symbol. ‘Peace Card’ initiative was observed by all students of the Programme to craft an individual artistic response for Peace. Besides, ‘Peace Mob’ was choreographed and performed by the dance students to shout out the idea of Peace.

INDIA, RAJASTHAN

ORGANIZATION: Rajputana Society of Natural History – FOCUS: Intl Peace Day – ACTION DETAILS: Organizing in solidarity with CNV Action Days: Sept 21st, Int’l Day of Peace

INDIA, TAMIL NADU, SARVAM VILLAGES

SARVAM organised an awareness programme for the students and women of the villages under its purview. The main objective of this programme was to help the students and women understand that they have a significant role in creating peace in their families and society. The participants were delighted to attend this session, which gave them much motivation and new thoughts on peace.

JAPAN, HIROSHIMA

On September 21, the International Day of Peace designated by the United Nations, citizens who supported the aims of a ceasefire and non-violence held a commemorative event at Peace Memorial Park in Naka Ward , Hiroshima . . . At the commemorative event, flowers were laid at the Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims, and there was silence to the sound of the peace bell in the park. About 15 people, including representatives of hibakusha groups and high school students, prayed for world peace.

JAPAN, HIROSHIMA CONCERT

STU48 held a performance in Hiroshima city on September 21, which was designated as “International Peace Day” by the United Nations, and performed the message song “Who is the flower?” . . .  ”Who is the flower?” is a message song that was released on April 13th and contains the thoughts of peace. The long hit on cable broadcasting and the performance of the same song on numerous music programs have further increased attention.

JAPAN, ITAMI CITY

On September 21st, the Peace Memorial Day designated by the United Nations, a peace concert will be held at the Carillon, a symbol of peace in Itami City, 2:00pm-2:30pm Player: Kazuyo Nakamura (Representative of Japan Carillon Association) Organizer: Japan Carillon Association Co-organizer: Itami City

JAPAN, KOBO-JI TEMPLE, MINATO-KU

On September 21st (Wednesday), which is “International Peace Day”, Kobo-ji Temple will hold an “International Peace Day Special Goma Prayer Service”
from 16:00 in the main hall on the 3rd floor to pray for world peace. Anyone can participate. We invite you all to join us.

JAPAN, MIYAGAKU

Miyazaki Gakuen Senior High School. September 21st is International Peace Day.
In the library, related books are introduced and an exhibition using paper cranes is held. The theme for 2022 is “Eliminating racism and building peace”. Cranes with prayers for peace were made by 3rd grade students.

JAPAN, NAGASAKI

On September 21, the United Nations’ International Peace Day, members of the Prefectural Atomic Bomb Survivor’s Handbook Tomo no Kai rang the Nagasaki Bell at the Peace Park in Matsuyama, Nagasaki, wishing for world peace. 

JAPAN, NIGATA CITY

September 21st is the United Nations International Day of Peace. At a shrine in Niigata City, calligraphers and high school students put their wishes for world peace into their brushes. The calligraphers Shimoda brother and sister and the calligraphy club of Niigata Daiichi High School wrote the calligraphy at Niigata Agata Gokoku Shrine in Chuo Ward, Niigata City. What the Shimoda brothers and sisters wrote is the word “hope”. [Calligrapher Ayasu Shimoda] “I think that we can do it by swinging the brush instead of the sword. I wrote it with my thoughts.” The words “love” and “peace” were strongly written on colored paper. [Niigata Daiichi High School Calligraphy Club Manager Yuki Matsudaira] “While thinking about peace, I wrote to bring happiness to people.” This event was held all over the country.

JAPAN, TOKYO

On the 21st of the International Peace Day (commonly known as Peace Day), which the United Nations has set as “a day without conflicts and wars”, an outdoor festival with free admission “Peace Day 2022 @ Yoyogi Park” will be held at Yoyogi Park in Shibuya Ward. ” will be held. The organizer is “Peace Day, a general incorporated foundation.” Starting at 4:00 pm, entrepreneurs, athletes, and artists will take the stage to talk about their thoughts on peace. AI, who is known for hit songs such as “Story” and “Happiness,” MINMI, who is also known as the “reggae diva,” and singer-songwriter Yae, will perform live.

JAPAN, URAYASU

September 21st is International Day of Peace, designated by the United Nations as a day for global ceasefire and non-violence. . . . Since 2020, the city has been holding a commemorative event to ring the bell at target facilities in the city, hoping for permanent peace in the world.Citizens, too, should think about world peace on this day and discuss happiness and peace in everyday life with family and friends.

JAPAN, YOKOHAMA

At the Yokohama store of haishop cafe in Minato Mirai, from September 8th (Thursday) to 21st (Wednesday), 2022, with the theme of international peace a special project “Peaceday event” will be held. This project is planned for International Peace Day (Peace Day) on September 21 (Wednesday). We will sell “San Marino Wine” produced in the country of San Marino. In addition, during the period, we will hold a screening of the documentary “the day after peace” as part of our social film festival.

MALAYSIA, PUCHONG

NurUL Quran Montessori House joined Montessori schools all over the world to sing for peace on the International Day of Peace to light a candle for peace, for love, for life!

NEPAL, KATMANDOU

Nepal has marked the International Day of Peace since 2002 by organizing several activities. On the occasion today, various organizations, including Human Rights and Peace Society (HURPES) and The Story Kitchen (TSK) are hosting programs to assert global peace.

NEW ZEALAND, AUKLAND

Video: Lajna New Zealand hold their 11th Peace Symposium

NEW ZEALAND, AUKLAND

Kohimarama Montessori Pre School joined Montessori schools all over the world to sing for peace on the International Day of Peace to light a candle for peace, for love, for life!

NEW ZEALAND, HAWKE’S BAY

ORGANIZATION: World Beyond War Aotearoa- New Zealand – FOCUS: Intl Peace Day, Ending Wars & Nukes, Teach Ins – ACTION DETAILS: Organizing in solidarity with CNV Action Days: Sept 21st (Wed) Int’l Day of Peace.

NEW ZEALAND, PALMERSTON NORTH, AWAPUNI

Montessori Educare joined Montessori schools all over the world to sing for peace on the International Day of Peace to light a candle for peace, for love, for life!

NEW ZEALAND, WHANGANUI

The 20th anniversary of the Handspan Peace Sculpture and the International Day of Peace celebration is gathering community momentum ahead of the event on September 21. In rededicating the original idea of having tiles with hand casts from local and broader communities on Handspan, it symbolises collective efforts in creating a culture of peace.

PAKISTAN, ISLAMABAD

Political and rights activist Jalila Haider on Friday won the first-ever ‘Pakistan Peace Award’ for her work and contribution to bring tolerance and sustainable peace in the country., The Peace Award was given to Ms Jalila here at the “Pakistan Peace Festival” organized by Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) at Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA). . . . The lawmakers, academicians, former diplomats, retired army officers, journalists, rights activists, and representatives of civil society participated in the event besides others. The other key events at the festival included “art exhibition, live theatre, music concert, poster competition and cultural dance performance.” . . . Director PIPS Muhammad Amir Rana in his earlier remarks said that violence was the biggest challenge Pakistan was facing today and the purpose of the launch of document of “Charter of Peace” was to make efforts to counter violent behaviours prevalent in the society and promote peace and tolerance.  “We aim to keep this award an annual activity to be announced each year around International Peace Day (21 Sep),” he said while talking about the Peace Award.

PAKISTAN, KARACHI

International Peace Day was celebrated at MiTE (Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship) today where students shared their thoughts about Peace and how they can inculcate it across the nation. Free brownies were distributed among the students as a symbol of peace, sharing, love and joy

PAKISTAN, RAWALPINDI

As many as 54 paintings and posters by the youth were put on display at the Punjab Arts Council Rawalpindi to commemorate the United Nations International Day for Peace on Wednesday. The exhibits are an outcome of the art competition organized by the Devcom-Pakistan (Development Communications Network) to mark another significant day of the UN. Islamabad Crescent Lion Club supported the event.

PHILIPPINES, ALABEL, SARANGANI

Various peace advocates and peace partners of the provincial government of Sarangani participated in the peace covenant signing on September 21 at the Capitol gym. Signing of the Peace Covenant with the stakeholders from all over the seven municipalities of Sarangani was in line with the celebration of the International Day of Peace every 21st of September, as declared by the United Nations.

PHILIPPINES, TUGUEGARAO CITY

September 21, 2022 – St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP), in cooperation with the World Council for Curriculum and Instruction (WCCI), celebrated the International Day of Peace. . . . Organized by the Paulinian Student Government (PSG) and the Center for External Relations, Alumni, and Advocacies, SPC Sisters, Administrators, Faculty members, staff and personnel, students, and parents gathered together to celebrate the event. The main program began with a “WALK for PEACE” led by student-leaders of the different organizations in the University. They held placards of Bible quotations on peace and care for creation aimed at instilling collective consciousness to work for building peace and stewardship as a personal and an institutional commitment. This was followed by an Ecumenical Liturgy consisted of the symbolic offering, intercessory prayers, and the prayer for peace. The prayer gathering emphasized the call to peace and care for creation as a communal act and a responsibility. The activity culminated by a pledge of commitment through the “THREAD of PEACE” and the community singing of “Let There Be Peace” by all the participants.

PHILIPPINES, VALENZUELA

Memo from the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. We are pleased to inform you that there will be a celebration of the International Day of Peace on September 24,2022 at the Bonifacio Shrine, Heroes Park; Ermita, Manila.

SOUTH KOREA, REFUGEE TRAIL

On a beautiful Sunday morning, 18 Sept 2022, refugees who live in South Korea and local peace activists set foot on a peace trail celebrating the International Day of Peace 2022. The event was organized by Active Refugee Korea (ARK), supported by UNHCR local office. Interestingly, the trail started with a guided tour at the War Memorial Hall of Korea Museum, which is located in Yongsan District, Seoul, “visiting with a critical eye”. “For refugees who fled persecution, violence and war-torn homes hoping to find security, a longing for peace would be profound. Nevertheless, the notion of peace will vary depending on the concrete realities we face in our lives, communities, and nations”. This was an urgent calling for peace on the organizers’ side who actively challenged militarism, distorted narratives of wars, and perpetrators justifying increasing military capacity.

SOUTH KOREA, SEOUL

Montessori DAMI joined Montessori schools all over the world to sing for peace on the International Day of Peace to light a candle for peace, for love, for life!

SRI LANKA, UNIVERSITY OF KELANIYA

An event to celebrate the International Day of Peace was held at 11a.m. at the K2 002 hall of the University of Kelaniya on the 21st of September 2022. The Department of Philosophy of the University of Kelaniya celebrated this day with the slogan “End Racism, Build Peace” with the aim of promoting peace among communities and individuals as it directs to embrace diversity and support one another to the fullest extent possible. 

THAILAND, BANGKOK, INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Due to COVID restrictions still in place for our student assemblies, ISB’s International Day of Peace event, originally scheduled for September 21st, 2022, has been moved to March 21st, 2023. In unity with Peace Day events held around the world, ISB will observe a moment of silence at 9:15am on September 21st to remember those who have suffered because of racism, and given their lives fighting against racism.   

THAILAND, BANGKOK, PATANA SCHOOL

At the Bangkok Patana School, World Peace Day was celebrated today across campus in both Primary and Secondary schools, with non-uniform day donations going toward the various school community charity clubs. Dressed in purple and blue, students participated in activities that emphasised world peace. Primary students handcrafted paper cranes, which will be sent to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to be integrated into the Children’s Peace Monument at Peace Memorial Park. In Secondary school, the well-being Hub hosted a movie day, karaoke was on in the Lounge and students were asked to share what peace means to them on chalkboards in the shared areas.

VIETNAM, HO CHI MINH CITY

Learn n Play Kindergarten joined Montessori schools all over the world to sing for peace on the International Day of Peace to light a candle for peace, for love, for life!

Kazakhstan: Congress of World and Traditional Religious Leaders to Address Social Status of Women

. WOMEN’S EQUALITY .

An article from Astana Times

The seventh Congress of World and Traditional Religious Leaders, scheduled for Sept. 14 – 15, will hold a special session devoted to the social status of women for the first time in the congress’s 20-year history, reported the congress’s press service on Sept. 8.  (The Congress will take place in Kazakhstan’s capitol Nur-Sultan, which was renamed in 2019 from its traditional name of Astana).

The session will focus on women’s contributions to the sustainable development of modern society. It will also address the role of religious communities in advancing women’s social position.

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Questions for this article

Prospects for progress in women’s equality, what are the short and long term prospects?

How can different faiths work together for understanding and harmony?

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The speakers of this meeting include several prominent religious and public figures such as Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States for Social Affairs Haifa Abu Ghazal, Bishop of Los Angeles and Metropolitan of Southern California and Hawaii of the Coptic Orthodox Church Serapion, Head of the Center for the Study of Islamic History Mahmud Erol Kilic, Art and Culture at the OIC (IRCICA), General Director of the Office of the UAE’s Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence Afra Mohammed al-Sabri, Chairman of the Spiritual Board of Muslims of Uzbekistan Grand Mufti Nuriddin Kholiknazarov, President of the UniãoPlanetária Isis Maria Borges de Resende, and President of Christian Solidarity Worldwide Jonathan Aitken. 

The congress, which will focus on the role of leaders of the world and traditional religions in mankind’s spiritual and social development in the post-pandemic period, is expected to gather more than 100 delegations from 50 countries. Among them are representatives of Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Shintoism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, and other religions, including the Head of the Catholic Church Pope Francis, Grand Imam of al-Azhar Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed El-Tayeb, and Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem. 

As part of his visit, Pope Francis will conduct an open-air holy mass  for Roman Catholics and representatives of other religions and confessions on Sept. 14 at the EXPO square. 

India: No More Hiroshima; No More Nagasaki; Nuclear Weapon Free World

DISARMAMENT & SECURITY .

An article received at CPNN from Dr Balkrishna Kurvey, President, Indian Institute for Peace Disarmament & Environmental Protection 

No More Hiroshima: No More Nagasaki: Peace Museum. , Indian Institute for Peace Disarmament & Environmental Protection , with Raman Science Centre, Ministry of Culture, National Council of Science Museums. Government of India arranged No More Hiroshima: No More Nagasaki: remembering event from 6 to 10 August 2022. Bombing posters were displayed for public. More than 5000 people visited


(Click on image to enlarge)

On 6th August Arnab Chtterjee Project Director , Raman Science Centre, inaugurated No More Hiroshima: No More Nagasaki: Peace Posters. On 10 August Dr Balkrishna Kurvey Honorary Executive Director of No More Hiroshima: No More Nagasaki: Peace Museum addressed the students/youths on Nuclear Weapons Free World with special reference to India and Pakistan. The event was arranged in Raman Science Centre, Nagpur.

Dr Kurvey informed that India and Pakistan possess nuclear weapons and there is an arms race between these countries. India posses 120 – 130 and Pakistan posses’140-150 nuclear weapons. There are many complex reasons for present nuclear arms race in South Asia. There is mistrust, misunderstanding and animosity between nuclear weapons countries in South Asia. Any fanatic military officer or political leader or due to misunderstanding, may start a nuclear war. The terrorist groups in Pakistan may possess and control the nuclear bombs which will be dangerous to whole world.

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Question related to this article:
 
Can we abolish all nuclear weapons?

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The use of just 150 kiloton nuclear bomb over a city like Mumbai could cause upto 86, 60,000 deaths.

Research carried out by International Physicians for Prevention of Nuclear War and Physicians for Social Responsibility, came to conclusion that limited nuclear war between India and Pakistan , 2 billion people will be at risk. And 1 billion will die due to starvation in global south.. It will have horrible consequences of:

1) Nuclear famine: regional nuclear war will cause global mass starvation; 2 billion people will be affected and 1 billion will due to starvation in global south. .

2) Nuclear ozone hole: the global cancer burden of a regional nuclear war;

3) Nuclear winter: the Earth’s life sustaining ecosystems remain at risk;

4) The casualties of nuclear war: .

By displaying the photos of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing, we do not intend to emphasize the horrible account of that war but to think how peace is fragile and to convey the horrors of war to the future generation

Most Indians do not know what happened in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We could build the public consensus by displaying the photos of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing..

We must remember what happened on the fateful days of 6th and 9th August 1945!

The purpose of No More Nagasaki: No More Nagasaki Peace Museum is to reach out maximum people in world to create solidarity and public peace education and awareness towards immediate and long range effects of atomic weapons and need of signing of CTBT by Governments.

We have to educate the people that the assumption is wrong that nuclear weapons increase security. Instead, they have environmental and health impacts.

Seeds for peace must be sown in the minds of youngsters through history books and peace posters.

UN Women : Five young women on the forefront of climate action across Europe and Central Asia

. WOMEN’S EQUALITY . .

An article from UN Women

Women and girls are powerful leaders and change-makers for climate adaptation and mitigation and must be included in the design and implementation of climate action. Without their leadership, knowledge and participation in climate responses today, it is unlikely that solutions for a sustainable planet and gender-equal world tomorrow will be realized.

Across the Europe and Central Asia, women and girls are advancing feminist climate justice and leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation and response. They are mobilizing local, national, regional and global climate movements and harnessing the transformative power of feminist leadership to face the unprecedented challenges of our times.

Ainura Sagyn, 33, is an ecofeminist, computer software engineer, and CEO of Tazar  [Become Greener], a startup mobile application that connects waste producers with recyclers and educates consumers about waste management in Kyrgyzstan. She actively promotes women’s rights, gender equality and environmental issues through her technological activism.

Some 65 per cent of Tazar app users are unemployed women with children who sell sorted recycled waste to earn points they can exchange for prizes such as deposit money from a bank or cosmetics, all from partners who are mostly women entrepreneurs. They have collected more than 10 tonnes of waste since the end of 2020. Sagyn and her partner Aimeerim Tursalieva also launched a Tazar Bazaar platform that sells eco-friendly products made by women entrepreneurs, which helps support local businesses, women entrepreneurs and promotes eco-consumption.

“Women, in particular, are disproportionately affected by climate change due to their lack of access to natural resources management, limited mobility in rural areas and by being excluded from decision-making processes,” says Sagyn, who aspires to extend her startup to promote environmentalism in other Central Asian countries.

Gabriela Isac, 29, is an environmental activist, co-founder of the Seed It Forward  volunteer agroforestry initiative and a project coordinator at the EcoVisio  grass-roots ecological non-profit in Moldova.

With the Seed It Forward team, she organizes tree-planting events, consults civil society organizations, local public authorities, schools and the general public on environmental issues, and educates them through informational materials on trees, composting and permaculture. They have planted over 50,000 trees and bushes, while their recent environmental campaign reached more than 1.5 million people online.

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Question related to this article:
 
What is the relation between the environment and peace

Do women have a special role to play in the peace movement?

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“Moldova is quite vulnerable to climate change. Though the effects are not as disastrous yet as in other parts of the world, climate change increases an already existing burden on women. Women often work in rural areas and take the least-paid day jobs in agriculture. Women’s welfare is directly affected by the harvest, which in the low-tech agricultural system of Moldova highly depends on climate,” says Isac.

Ania Sauku, 19, is an active voice for gender equality, climate action and youth empowerment in Albania. She is one of the incumbent Albanian Youth Delegates to the United Nations, where she advocates for climate issues and sustainable development and shares the perspective of youth in her country.
She raises awareness on climate change and feminism and how they are inextricable from one another. Sauku believes that for many people in Albania, climate change is still not an issue, and that gender equality and climate are not related. Together with her team, she organizes movie nights on environment, protests and marches for climate justice, and other educational initiatives to raise awareness about climate change and intersectional feminism.
“Climate crisis does not affect us all in the same way and often women are the most vulnerable to this crisis, especially women from marginalized communities such as women of ethnic minorities, women of colour, women with disabilities, queer women, women living in poverty, and other women and girls at the intersection of multiple systems of oppression,” says Sauku.

Pakizat Sailaubekova, 29, is an environmentalist, project manager at Greenup.kz public fund and a co-founder of the Recycle BIRGE  [Recycle Together] ecological movement in Kazakhstan. She won the “>Tereshkevich Youth Environmental Award  for her eco-activism and a 3.2.1. Start!  eco-project grant.

She organizes public and corporate clean ups, climate-related events, conducts eco-consulting and gives various educational lectures on household waste and living an eco-friendly life. Together with colleagues, Sailaubekova has organized 43 clean ups with the participation of over 1,700 people. They have also collected and transferred more than 4,000 kg of recyclable materials for processing and implemented 14 large-scale environmental projects.

“The role of women in preserving nature is enormous,” she says, adding that 95 per cent of the eco-volunteers and the participants in their environmental campaigns are women and girls. “Women are at the forefront of solving many environmental problems, each at their own level. Our organization is also founded solely by women.”

Sanne Van de Voort, 27, is Advocacy Officer for Women Engage for a Common Future  (an international ecofeminist network), and an NGO representative on the Dutch Delegation to this year’s Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).

She believes that feminist climate justice recognizes the intersectionality of climate and environmental issues and how each individual is affected differently by climate change and can lend their unique experiences to finding solutions. As an Advocacy Officer, she works to ensure that Dutch and international decisions taken on climate and environmental issues reflect the needs, perspectives and solutions of women and feminists across the world, especially from the Global South. In her new role as a Dutch NGO representative to CSW, she contributes to preparations and priority-setting in the Dutch Government’s CSW delegation alongside other Dutch civil society organizations.

“We need changes that start putting people and planet over profit,” says Van de Voort. “A system that puts equality, sustainability and justice at the centre, instead of the exploitation of natural resources at the expense of biodiversity and a healthy environment.”

Indian Ministry of Law and Justice : The Mediation Bill, 2021

… EDUCATION FOR PEACE …

A project of law from PRS India

 The Mediation Bill, 2021 was introduced in Rajya Sabha on December 20, 2021.  Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), where parties attempt to settle their dispute (outside courts) with the assistance of an independent third person (mediator).  The Bill seeks to promote mediation (including online mediation), and provide for enforcement of settlement agreements resulting from mediation.  Key features of the Bill include:

° Applicability: The Bill will apply to mediation proceedings conducted in India where: (i) all parties reside in, are incorporated in, or have their place of business in India, (ii) the mediation agreement states that mediation will be as per this Bill, or (iii) there is an international mediation (i.e., mediation related to a commercial dispute where at least one party is a foreign government, a foreign national/resident, or an entity with its place of business outside India).  In these cases, if the central or state government is a party, the Bill will only apply to: (a) commercial disputes, and (b) other disputes as notified by such government.

° Pre-litigation mediation: In case of civil or commercial disputes, a person must try to settle the dispute by mediation before approaching any court or certain tribunals as notified.  Even if the parties fail to reach a settlement through pre-litigation mediation, the court or tribunal may at any stage of the proceedings refer the parties to mediation if they request for the same.

° Disputes not fit for mediation: Disputes not fit for mediation include those: (i) relating to claims against minors or persons of unsound mind, (ii) involving prosecution for criminal offences, (iii) affecting the rights of third parties, and (iv) relating to levy or collection of taxes.  The central government may amend this list of disputes.
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Question for this article:

Mediation as a tool for nonviolence and culture of peace

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° Mediation process: Mediation proceedings will be confidential.  A party may withdraw from mediation after the first two mediation sessions.  The mediation process must be completed within 180 days (even if the parties fail to arrive at an agreement), which may be extended by another 180 days by the parties.  In case of court annexed mediation (i.e., mediation conducted at a mediation centre established by any court or tribunal), the process must be conducted in accordance with directions or rules framed by the Supreme Court or High Courts.

° Mediators: Mediators only assist the parties to settle their dispute, and cannot impose a settlement on the them.  Mediators may be appointed by: (i) the parties by agreement, or (ii) a mediation service provider (an institution administering mediation).  Mediators must disclose any conflict of interest that may raise doubts on their independence.  Parties may then choose to replace the mediator.

° Mediation Council of India: The central government will establish the Mediation Council of India.  The Council will consist of a chairperson, two full-time members (with experience in mediation or ADR), three ex-officio members (including Secretaries in the Ministries of Law and Justice and Finance), and one part-time member (from an industry body).  Functions of the Council include: (i) registration of mediators, and (ii) recognising mediation service providers and mediation institutes (providing training, education and certification of mediators).

° Mediated settlement agreement: Agreements resulting from mediation must be in writing, signed by the parties and authenticated by the mediator.  Such agreements will be final, binding, and enforceable in the same manner as court judgments (except agreements arrived at after community mediation).  Mediated settlement agreements (besides those arrived at in court referred mediation or by Lok Adalat or Permanent Lok Adalat) may be challenged only on grounds of: (i) fraud, (ii) corruption, (iii) impersonation, or (iv) relating to disputes not fit for mediation.

° Community mediation: Community mediation may be attempted to resolve disputes likely to affect the peace and harmony amongst residents of a locality.  It will be conducted by a panel of three mediators (may include persons of standing in the community, and representatives of RWAs).

° Interface with other laws: The Bill will override other laws on mediation (except certain laws such as the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and the Industrial Relations Code, 2020).  The Bill also makes consequential amendments in certain laws (such as the Indian Contract Act, 1872, and the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996). 

Indian farmers call off lengthy protest after govt assurances

. . SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT . .

An article by Mayank Bhardwaj and Rajendra Jadhav from Thomson Reuters foundation (reprinted by permission)

Indian farmers called off a long-running protest on Thursday (December 9) after the government conceded a clutch of demands, including assurances to consider guaranteed prices for all produce, instead of just rice and wheat, union le


Farmers celebrate Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement that he will repeal the controversial farm laws, at Ghazipur near New Delhi [File: Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters]

The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said last month he would roll back https://www.reuters.com/world/india/indias-modi-repeal-controversial-farm-laws-2021-11-19 three farm laws, giving in after more than a year of protests by tens of thousands of farmers who demanded their repeal, as key state elections approach.

Question for this article:

What is the relation between movements for food sovereignty and the global movement for a culture of peace?

How effective are mass protest marches?

Despite the government’s climbdown, the farmers had continued to press for other demands, such as the guaranteed prices, as well as for legal action against protesters to be dropped.

“We have received a letter from the government which has conceded to our requests,” said Balbir Singh Rajewal, a senior leader of a coalition of farmers’ unions, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, or United Farmers’ Front.

But farmers’ leaders would meet on Jan. 15 to review progress on the government’s assurances, Rajewal told a news conference.

“We will resume our protests if the government moves away from the assurances,” said Gurnam Singh Charuni, another farmers’ leader.

From Dec. 11, farmers will start leaving the protest site on the outskirts of the Indian capital of New Delhi, they said.

The government will set up a panel of growers and government officials to find ways of ensuring Minimum Support Prices (MSP), as the guaranteed rates are called, for all farm produce, according to the letter seen by Reuters.

The government now buys mainly rice and wheat at such guaranteed prices, benefiting barely 6% of India’s millions of farmers.

Agriculture, which accounts for nearly 15% of India’s $2.7-trillion economy, is the livelihood of more than half its population of 1.3 billion.

Bangladesh: Dhaka Peace Declaration Adopted

DISARMAMENT & SECURITY .

An article from Barta 24

The two-day ‘World Peace Conference 2021’ ended in Dhaka. The conference was held as part of the celebration of the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of Bangladesh’s independence.


photo of conference

The World Peace Conference 2021 ended with the adoption of the Dhaka Declaration at the conclusion of the World Peace Conference on Sunday (December 5) afternoon at the Hotel Intercontinental.

The points are-

>> Establishing peace on the occasion World Peace Conference of 4-5 December and announcing membership.

>> Acknowledging the theme of the conference as progress of peace through social inclusion. Get rid of corona and try to build it stronger. Conflict has been avoided.

In the context of the conference, praising the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founder of Bangladesh and 50th anniversary of Independence. it has been said that we remember that the journey of Bangladesh in the last five decades is legitimacy for human liberation. Empowerment Fundamental rights and freedoms as a way to maintain peace, promote and uphold sustainable development.

>> We pay tribute to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for his personal commitment as he has contributed for peace throughout his colorful political career.

>> We appreciate the capable leadership displayed by the Prime Minister, the political successor of Bangabandhu. Sheikh Hasina is carrying forward her legacy with courage and determination. Her culture of peace philosophy has been adopted at the UN.

We reminisce on the memory of the martyrs and victims of Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971 and reiterate our commitment to never bow down to genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. In addition to international crime, the culture of impunity impedes justice and accountability for that crime. We pledge ourselves to move forward to end such cowardly oppression and injustice.

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Question related to this article:

How can the peace movement become stronger and more effective?

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>> We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights in our efforts to build a peaceful, just and inclusive society. We acknowledge the invaluable work done by the United Nations for human rights.

>> We respect the supremacy of international humanitarian law in both war and peace. We remain committed to international protection and assistance policies for refugees and stateless people around the world. In compliance with international disarmament, we renounce the use of all weapons of mass destruction in the nuclear, chemical and biological world arms race. We condemn terrorism.

>> We emphasize the importance of democracy, good governance and the rule of law for peace and stability. We evaluate the role of national parliament and local government institutions. He raised his voice against the just demands and aspirations of the people. We condemn colonialism, illegal occupation. I oppose the seizure of unauthorized power on any pretext. We recognize the role of peace building, peace building. We commend the UN peacekeepers for their dedication.

>> We emphasize the need for a stable, peaceful, social justice and inclusive development. We are committed to protecting the right to employment for all adults in a changing world. We acknowledge the important role of the private sector in advancing social order.

>> We must continue to work to restore our commitment to ‘keep no one behind’. Of course women need to create increased opportunities for political and economic gain. We need to redouble our efforts to prevent all forms of violence and exploitation against children. We need to pay extra attention to the special needs of the elderly, persons with disabilities and indigenous peoples for their meaningful participation in society.

>> We adhere to the underlying and eternal message of peace across all religions, faiths and beliefs. We reject attempts to associate any religion or ethnicity with terrorism and violent extremism. We condemn all forms of violence and abuse on the basis of race, caste or gender. We unequivocally condemn communal violence.

>> We reward and nurture our diverse culture, language as a tradition. We must respect and nurture the boundaries of education, moral studies, science, art, music, literature, media, tourism, fashion, architecture and archeology.

>> We are sensitive to the growing security, displacement and environmental challenges posed by climate. We must invest in health care and provide quality medical care and vaccines for all.

>> We cannot lose sight of the fact that there is no peace anywhere in the world. We recognize the role of regional cooperation in building trust, understanding and unity among the people. We hope to establish a world order that improves the ecosystem of our entire planet. Build consistency. We adhere to tolerance, generosity, empathy and solidarity to achieve love, compassion, lasting peace and security.

>> We do swear solemnly from our respective points at this World Peace Conference peace, social inclusion, fundamental rights, freedoms and sustainability. The reasons for this are spreading the message. We thank the Government and people of Bangladesh for their warm hospitality. Let’s share the ideals and vision for peace.

VIEW Reactions to India’s decision to repeal farm laws

. . SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT . .

An article from Reuters (reprinted by permission)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that he had decided to repeal three agriculture laws that farmers have been protesting against for more than a year. read more.
(See also CPNN January 26, 2021)


A farmer sits on barricades at the site of the farmers protest against farm laws, at Ghazipur near Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border, in New Delhi, India, October 29, 2021. REUTERS/Anushree Fadnavis

The protesting farmers said the laws, that allow growers to sell produce beyond government-regulated wholesale markets, where they are assured a minimum price, would benefit big private buyers at their expense.

The government said the legislation was needed to reform an agricultural sector beset by wastage.

Modi, in an address to the nation, said the laws would be repealed in the new session of parliament, starting this month.

Following are some reactions:

ARVIND KEJRIWAL, CHIEF MINISTER OF DELHI
“Generations to come will remember how the farmers of this country put their lives on the line and saved farming in this country. I bow before them.”

RAHUL GANDHI, LEADER OF OPPOSITION PARTY CONGRESS
“Congratulations on this victory against injustice!”

Question for this article:

What is the relation between movements for food sovereignty and the global movement for a culture of peace?

How effective are mass protest marches?

NAVJOT SINGH SIDHU, LEADER OF OPPOSITION CONGRESS PARTY IN PUNJAB STATE
“Repealing of black laws a step in the right direction … You’re sacrifice has paid dividends.”

ARVIND SINGH DHANKAR, SECRETARY OF FARMER UNION KHEDUT SABHA
“With our consistent protests despite pandemic we have proven that we were doing the right thing by questioning the government’s flawed farm laws, we showed the world all the problems it will create for millions of Indian farmers. Finally, government has acknowledged our legitimate woes.”

DARSHAN PAL, SENIOR LEADER OF FARMER UNION COALITION SAMYUKTA KISAN MORCHA
“We welcome the announcement made by the prime minister, but we need to know the government’s stand on our other key demand of making minimum support prices compulsory for call crops.”

MAMATA BANERJEE, LEADER OF OPPOSITION ALL INDIA TRINAMOOL CONGRESS
“My heartfelt congratulations to every single farmer who fought relentlessly … This is YOUR VICTORY! My deepest condolences to everyone who lost their loved ones in this fight.”

RAKESH TIKAIT, LEADER AND SPOKESMAN OF BHARTIYA KISAN UNION
“The agitation will not be withdrawn immediately, we will wait for the day when agricultural laws will be repealed in Parliament. Along with MSP, the government should also discuss other issues of farmers.”

RAMAN SINGH RANDHAWA, HEAD OF JAI KISAN ANDOLAN IN RAJASTHAN STATE
“It is a win of farmers and this should have been repealed on the day one. These laws are not against the farmers but against the Indian structure. Had the government listened to us on day one many farmers lives could have been saved. You also see the elections are here so the government had to repeal the laws.”

RAMESH PATEL, REGIONAL PRESIDENT OF GUJARAT KHEDUT SAMAJ
“This is a big victory for farmers. Implementation of the three farm laws would have been detrimental to the interests of farmers, traders, and consumers. The government has done the right thing by announcing withdrawal of the laws.”

MAHUA MOITRA, A LAWMAKER FROM OPPOSITION ALL INDIA TRINAMOOL CONGRESS
“Whether it was fear of losing (Uttar Pradesh) or finally facing up to conscience @BJP govt rolls back farm laws. Just the beginning of many more victories for people’s voices.”

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