United Nations Office Newsletter

55th Annual DPI/NGO Conference

Rebuilding Societies Emerging from Conflict: A Shared Responsibility

United Nations, New York - September 9-11, 2002

Federation for World Peace International

Fall 2002

Contents

Reports of 55th DPI/NGO Conference ------------------------- p. 1 At the UN in New York------------ p. 2 International Youth Day ---------- p. 3 At the UN in Geneva -------------- p. 4 Middle East Women'd Conferences' Report and Crete Declaration --- p. 5 Reports from South America/ Caribbean: Chile--------------------------------- p. 6 Dominican Republic -------------- p. 7 Guatemala -------------------------- p. 7 Antigua & Barbuda ---------------- p.7 WFWP 10th Anniversary -------- p. 10 Upcoming Events ----------------- p. 12

The 55th Annual DPI/NGO Conference entitled “Rebuilding Societies Emerging from when she was the President of Ireland. It Conflict: A Shared Responsibility” was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New was not the UN or any governmental York from September 9-11, 2002, organized by the NGO’s Section of the UN Department organizations that went into those post- of Public Information (DPI) in cooperation with the Executive Committee of NGOS conflict countries first to help them. She witnessed that it was the Women’s NGOS. associated with DPI. Women who have been excluded from The conference was open only to representatives of NGO associated with DPI, those in history must be included in the creation of consultative status with the UN through ECOSOC or those working with the UN agencies history, especially in post-conflict and programmes or with the UN information Centers and Services. Over 2000 individual reconstruction. participants represented 700 NGOS from 81 countries this year. Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi, Special Re- The opening session of the conference took place in the General Assembly Hall at 10:00 presentative of UN for Afghanistan had am -12:30 pm on September 9. Starting with the Welcome Remarks of Mr. Shashi Tharoor, also stated that the work he is doing in Under-Secretary General for Communication and Public Information of the UN, there Afghanistan could not be accomplished were addresses by the President of the 56th Session of the UN General Assembly, Mr. Han Seung-Soo and the Deputy Secretary General of the UN, Ms. Louise Frechett. Keynote without the NGO’s support. There were International and local NGOS who were address was given by the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the UN for active in Afghanistan while international Afghanistan Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi and High Commissioner for Human Rights of the UN, Ms. Mary Robinson whose term was completed on that day. NGO Welcome Remarks society had abandoned and ignored the situation. There are issues that UN cannot were also made by Chair, NGO/DPI Executive Committee, Mr. Donald Treimann, President of the Conference of NGOS in Consultative Relationship with UN (CONGO), Ms. Renate handle and there are issues that NGOS cannot handle therefore, NGOS and the UN Bloem and Conference Chair, Ms. Sherill Kazan Alvarez de Toledo. have very vital partnership. In her keynote address, Ms. Mary Robinson, High Commissioner for Human Rights shared her experience with women’s NGOS in Somalia and Rwanda as she visited those countries 55th Annual DPI/NGO Conference , continued on pg. 11 1 FALL 2002

Statement of Purpose

Economic and Social Council of the United Nations “Contribution of Human Resources Development Including in the Area of Health and Education to the Process of Development”

A Vital Element of Education to Secure Human Resources Development

Statement to the High Level Segment By Motoko Sugiyama On behalf of the Women’s Federation for World Peace International June 25, 2002

The Women's Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) supports a network of National WFWP Chapters worldwide. WFWP Chapters adhere to the principle that Mr. President, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates: women, working together, taking initiative and It is my great honor and privilege to address the High Level Segment of the Economic and empowering one another across traditional lines Social Council of 2002 on behalf of Women’s Federation for World Peace International of race, culture and religion to create healthy as an international NGO accredited to ECOSOC with General Consultative Status. families, are resolving the complex problems of our societies and world. The human family has traveled a long way to arrive where we are today, and it seems that Ultimately "solutions" come as true partnerships there are tremendous opportunities for us to learn from these manifold experiences. While between men and women are established in all the 20 Century has been categorized as a century of wars and a century of refugees, at the levels of society. The beginning point is within same time, it was a century displaying the most rapid development of science and society's most elemental level—the family. technology. As an international women’s NGO that has developed and promoted grassroots Peace then expands into our communities, service projects such as school projects, vocational centers, foster parents projects, scholar- nation and world. ship funds, micro Therefore, WFWP works to credit programs, provide women worldwide with: and more, in over the knowledge, tools and support needed to create peace at home, peace in our communities, our nations and our world. Motoko Sugiyama Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Bonnie Berry Editor

Merly Barete-Barlaan Production & Distribution Friederike Buczyk Layout & Design

This newsletter is published by the United Nation's Office of the Women's Federation for World Peace International, 4 West 43rd Street, Suite 506 New York, NY 10036. For information, subscriptions, comments or editorial suggestions, please call 212-760-0146 Fax 212-760-0318 or write to: WFWPI, 4 West 43rd Street, Suite 506 New York, NY 10036. e-mail: WFWPINTL1@aol.com

Find us on the Web at http://wfwp.org

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100 countries in the past 10 years, we have wit- nessed the solemn fact that human beings who face no discrimination have the greatest potential for human resources development. Yet on the other hand, we have witnessed that it is also human beings who cause the greatest de-struction of this potential. While this modern age is characterized by globalization, the existing gap between the global north and south is sadly growing. I propose that even more dismaying than the growing technological and economic gap is the gap which remains between the mind and heart of the human being. We as individuals, families and communities have not yet “globalized” our minds, our hearts. If globalization of mind and heart of human beings does not occur, there will be the greatest potential for the destruction rather than the development of human resources. The recent September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in USA underscored a major flaw in humanity and actually helped highlight an essential focus for us if we are to secure global peace. This event was caused by individuals whose anger and desire for justice misused religious images and terminology in a most extreme way to justify their actions, which were far from being true to the spirit of the religion they professed to represent. Unfortunately, the universal principles and values now enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and reaffirmed in the Millennium Declaration were severely trampled upon that day. These principles and values were distilled from the best of our cultures and civilizations earlier in the 20 Century, cultures and civilizations that had emerged over time and have been shaped by the sacred wisdom of the world’s religions. Clearly, dangers

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From right Ms. Motoko Sugiyama, Dr. Po Ya Chun, President of WFWP Taiwan and Ms. Lily Chen, Vice President of WFWP Taiwan at the Economic Social Council Substantative Session of 2002 (July 1-26, 2002)

Statement , continued on pg. 8

At the UN in New York …

Reports of DPI /NGO Briefings

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International Youth Day

UNHQ, New York - 12 August 2002 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Dag Hammarskjold Library Auditorium On August 17, 1999, in resolution 54/120 I, the General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth held in Lisbon, 8-12 August 1999 that each 12th of August be declared International Youth Day. On this day the Secretary-General called upon youth of the world to continue to carry forward the ideals of Agenda 21, making their voices heard as major stakeholders in the planet’s future. Agenda 21 was formulated and adopted by 168 nations in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992, at the UN Conference on the Environment and Development. It establishes a comprehensive global plan of action for sustainable development through partnerships between developed nations and developing nations. (More about Agenda 21 can be found on the UN website, www.un.org ). The involvement of youth in environment and development decision-making, as well as in the

Preparations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development 26 August- 4 September 2002, Johannesburg, South Africa The briefing on the “Preparations for the Development Organization (WEDA). The World Summit in Sustainable Development briefing was focused on orientation, 26 August - 4 September 2002, Johannes- providing NGOS with all the fundamental burg, South Africa” was held on April 18 , information about the WSSD, as well as 2002 from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon at the the agenda of issues to be discussed. Each Dag Hammarskjold Library Auditorium, speaker emphasized that there would be United Nations, New York. The speakers were: Ms. Zehra Aydin-Sipos, Focal Point for Major Groups, Division for Sustainable Development of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), Ms. Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, Minister Plenipotentiary, Permanent Mission of Brazil to the United Nations and Ms. June Zeitlin - Executive Director, Women’s Environment and Briefings , continued on pg. 8

broad participation, including repre- sentatives from various governments, the business sector, youth and NGOS. WSSD will focus on follow-up and implementation of the ideals of Rio and Agenda 21. After the speakers’ presen- tations, the floor was opened for NGOS to voice their questions and comments. The briefing was adjourned at 12:00 noon.

Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA)and Department of Public Information (DPI), and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) jointly organized a panel discussion on “Now and for the Future: Youth Action for Sustainable Development”. The panel focused on the preparations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development to be held in Johannesburg from 26 August to 4 September 2002. Speakers included Mr. Nitin Desai, Undersecretary-General for the Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Mr. Stephen Commins, Social Policy Specialist, Human Development Network, World Bank. There were two young speakers representing the youth. Ms. Yvonne Maingey, an active youth participant at the Children’s Conference on the Environment held in Canada, spoke

A World Fit for Children

The United Nations General Assembly Special Session on Children was held May 8 - 10, 2002 at UN Headquarters in NY. This was an unprecedented meeting that offered an opportunity to change the way the world views and treats children and adolescents.

This Special Session on Children was the culmination of a decade of planning and action to improve the well being of children, on the part of governments, NGO’s and other international organi- zations that began at the World Summit On Children in 1990 when world leaders met at the UN and determined to work toward a world fit for children. Appropriately, the outcome document of this Special Session on Children is entitled “A World Fit For Children”. This document outlines main issues still to be faced in the struggle to improve the lives of children. These areas of concern are Health, Education, Abuse, Violence and Exploitation, as well as HIV/AIDS. In first. Ms. Maingey also has a children’s TV addition to a detailed list of specific program in Nairobi. Another young speaker problems, there were goals laid out for the was Ms. Ghazal Badiozamani, who is next decade and a plan of action to tackle directly involved with youth and the these problems. drafting of the outcome document of The SSGA on Children was an opportunity WSSD. to look back on what had been implementation of programs is critical to Mr. Desai spoke on the Overview of WSSD accomplished on behalf of children since the long-term success of Agenda 21. in relation to youth. According to Mr. the World Summit On Children, assess the Desai, WSSD will involve nine major current state of affairs as well as discuss The third commemoration of International groups. There will be partnership plenaries where to go from here. This was done Youth Day 2002 took place on August 12, with the nine representatives of these major through official sessions at UN Head- 2002 at the UN HQ, New York. The Youth Day , continued on pg. 10

Children , continued on pg. 12 3 FALL 2002

At the UN in Geneva …

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S SEMINAR TO MARK INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY

Geneva - March 6-8, 2002

Terrorism, the Global Order, Arms and Missile Defense

unison has been a very powerful force to influence this issue. A discussion of ‘Best Practices’ in dealing with terrorism in Sierra Leone and Sri Lanka raised questions about the proliferation of small arms and how local women could deter this proliferation. Presentations from the President of the NGO Committee on Disarmament, David Atwood and the Secretary General of the International Peace Bureau, Colin Archer stressed the need to develop non-military strategies to pre-empt fighting and, in the long term, prevent terrorism. The general consensus among speakers and participants was that there is a tremendous need for the disarmament issue to be a more inclusive and humanitarian one, one that has the power to touch the minds and hearts of people and bring them to action.

Since 1984,women have come together at Staying in touch with a basic motivation the Palais des Nations, Geneva, to mark 8 of caring for people and our planet is the March, International Women’s Day, to best way to assure success. If the leaders focus on disarmament and related issues won’t do it, civil society and the NGO’s from a woman’s perspective. This provides must do so. An example is the way that an opportunity for disarmament specialists, civil society and many NGO’s rallied diplomats and representatives of concerned around the land-mine issue in spite of non-governmental organizations to share inertia at the top. The advertising information and knowledge. The seminar campaigns by several United Nations is timed to coincide with the weekly open organizations that educated people about plenary session of the Conference on the effect of landmines on innocent lives, Disarmament (CD), to which a statement as well as the courage demonstrated by many to stand up for what is right no matter from the seminar is read. who is saying otherwise were probably the During the past several years, topics of the two most important elements in raising International Women’s Day seminars have awareness of the tragedies involved in included ; Feminist Perspectives on Security, landmine use. Until this day many nations The Role of the Media, Development and haven’t signed the landmine treaty, but the Disarmament and Small Arms. strategy about using landmines has changed This year the NGO Working Group on completely because the will of the people in Women and Peace of which WFWPI is a member, sponsored the event. Carolyn Handschin, the main representative of WFWPI in Geneva, was invited to chair two of the sessions. This year’s topic was by Carolyn Handschin, WFWPI Representative to UN in Geneva chosen in light of September 11 an event In the Secretary General’ s report on the relationships between nations to a more that shocked the world and left a profound work of the Security Council last year, complex one that includes nonstate actors sense of insecurity and vulnerability. A he reiterated his commitment to “move along with state actors as initiators of both paper outlining the viewpoint of WFWPI the UN from a culture of reaction to a conflict and reventive actions. September on the topic was distributed with the culture of prevention” . He went on to 11 made this very clear and highlighted the conference documents. say “that the earlier the root causes of a need for ongoing dialogue among Speakers included H.E. Mary Whelen, potential conflict are identified and civilizations with new priority given to effectively addressed, the more likely it is interreligious dialogue. Ambassador of Ireland to the United that the parties to a conflict will be ready to Globalization and technologies now Nations in Geneva, who is one of the few engage in a constructive dialogue, address available enable individuals and small women represented at the Conference on the actual grievances that lie at the root of groups of people to impact our world in Disarmament. Patricia Lewis, Director of the potential conf lict and refrain from the ways only previously available to nations. the UN Institute for Disarmament Research use of force to achieve their aims.” A/55/ Collective decision making processes (UNIDIR)was also a speaker. In reference 985 S/2001/574 eclipsed the prevalence of our profound to the ongoing stalemate within the CD, It is also useful to note the interest of inter-relatedness and the individual moral Ms. Lewis warned that we are undermining many nation states in the promise of responsibility that accompanies our ourselves. In particular, she encouraged the Dialogue among Civilizations as humanity. Today’s technologies magnify NGO’s present to help uplift the face of containing the seed of a new paradigm the capacity of individuals to dramatically of international relations that holds conflict affect the lives of other individuals and disarmament to a more humane image. Ms. prevention as the primary obligation of even whole nations. We have witnessed Lewis went on to explain that this can be Member States. A RES 56 6 how the errant behavior of demented done by going beyond the self interest, fear individuals can shatter our sense of security With this in mind we can turn to the issue and domination that have often motivated and order, leaving us without defenses. of ‘Terrorism, the Global Order, Arms those in the driver’s seat of the conference. Fortunately, the heroic reactions of some and Missile Defense’ . The global order individuals at the cost of great personal is shifting from a simpler set of

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WFWPI Statement

“Women’s Role in Building World Peace through Non-Violence”

The Sixth Women’s Conference for Peace in the Middle East

Crete, Greece - May 7-10, 2002

Thirty women from 14 Middle Eastern Middle Eastern countries saw the nations gathered to respond to the question, significance of holding the conference during “What can women do to solve the conflict this time, and gathered at the Capsis Beach in the Middle East?” Difficulties to Overcome

Hotel on the island of Crete, Greece. About half of the women were attending this annual conference for the first time. In addition to “Women, by nature seek non-violent the participants, there were 32 observers solutions to conflicts so that their loved ones from Japan. will not have to suffer. This nature is what Women as Peace Makers we want for the leaders to have in order to stop violence during this time of conflict, The main theme of the conference was the where thousands of lives are being lost in “Women’s Role in Building World Peace the Middle East.” H.E. Inam Al-Mufti, through Non-Violence.” At the Welcoming former Minister of Social Development of Banquet on the evening of May 7, Dr. Zoe Jordan and chair of the conference, greeted Bennett, co-chair representing WFWP the participants in this way at the Opening Greece, welcomed the group by stating, Session. That remark was also a response to “Let’s start to build peace, beginning with the question posed by Prof. Lan Young Moon this conference.” The participants then Park, President of WFWP International: introduced themselves, and alumni enjoyed “What can we do? What can women do at the reunion with friends from previous this time to resolve the terrible conflict and conferences. suffering in the Middle East?” The morning of May 8 was bright and clear. There was concern about holding a Small fishing boats floated among the conference at a time when tension was at a peaceful waves of the Aegean Sea. After peak, with suicide bombings and armed breakfast, the participants met at the conflict escalating between the Israelis and conference hall, a bit tense at first. At the Palestinians, with the peace process itself in crisis. However, the 30 women from 14 Middle East Peace , continued on pg. 9

sacrifice again reminded us that there are focus on education around a global ethic universal standards of ethical behavior that that is premised on an interaction of Human bind us. Rights and corresponding Human Res- ponsibilities. If well thought out, this shift In the face of the magnitude of today’ s from a culture of ‘victims of the cycle of threats, it is not possible to dismantle conflict’ to one of constructive contributors existing defense mechanisms without to the cycle of prevention portends the replacing them with adequate coverage. unleashing of tremendous potential. But, it would be our contention that a more innovative approach to dealing with Finally, we are trying to find long term the threat of armed conflict would be by solutions to issues of disarmament that mainstreaming preventative strategies that should focus on the clarification of a target individual responsibility and global ethic and the most effective means accountability through both long term and of facilitating the adoption of that ethic short term strategies. by all. What is needed is the capacity and courage to look beyond the barriers of Treaties between nations may quell the race, religion, socio economics, nationality conflict temporarily but ultimately the and ethnicity to core universal elements that conflict must be resolved in the minds and are understandable and accessible to all. hearts of those people directly involved. Ironically, our most far reaching solutions Individual accountability through such will be implemented through our most mechanisms as the UN War Crimes immediate and most potent sphere of Tribunals or similar national or local level influence, our families and our efforts is a critical first step. But to ensure communities. a lasting peace, the process must continue beyond the point of reconciliation from Summarizing in the words of the government to grass roots, all actors must Secretary General, “The time has come cooperate to see that the process is not to translate the rhetoric of conflict interrupted. The search for durable, self prevention into concrete action” . generating solutions points us towards a

THE CRETE DECLARATION WOMEN’S COALITION FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST (WCPM)

The Women’s Conference for Peace in the Middle East convened a sixth meeting in Crete, Greece, 7-10 May 2002, to highlight the importance of non-violence as the only approach to conflict resolution in the face of the current bloodshed and suffering in the region. The participants, coming from fifteen countries of the region, formulated the following declaration by consensus: We, the undersigned, the Women’s Coalition for Peace in the Middle East (WCPM) - an initiative of the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWP, UN NGO in General Consultative Status with ECOSOC), express our deep sorrow and anger at the continuing cycles of violence in the Middle East. In the spirit of establishing security and peace in the Middle East, we call for the cessation of the Israeli-Palestinian violence and of the restoration of international legitimacy in all areas where conflicts exist. We call upon the International Community to recognise and support the efforts of civil society in general and WFWP in particular in promoting peace in the Middle East. In accordance with UN resolution 1325, which reaffirmed “the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and in peace-building, and (stressed) the importance of their equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance of peace and security,” we recognise our active role especially in the areas of peace-building, civil reconstruction and development. We will foster compassion and reconciliation in our society. We will cooperate as women and mothers to bring peace to the Middle East region and help bring an end to a centuries- old conflict, working together in equal participation and mutual respect. The conference concluded by proposing a series of initiatives, such as but not limited to: Collaborating in research projects on X women’s conditions and experiences in the region as a basis for policy recommendations. Encouraging educational institutions to X adopt education for peace materials into their curricula. Providing training for women – X empowerment, gender awareness, legal literacy and conflict resolution. Influencing media to project a balanced X and positive image of the cultural and religious diversity of the region. In light of the above, we welcome cooperation and support from the appropriate United Nations agencies and other relevant bodies.

Activities In South America & Caribbean

Chile

Activity Report from WFWP-Chile

Jan 8, 02 - WFWP representatives met with Chile’s First Lady, Mrs. Luisa Duran de Lagros, sharing about WFWP projects in Chile. WFWP presented the First Lady with a donation for her project “Smile of Woman,” which helps poor women get needed dental care. Mar 8, 02 - Awards presentation during WFWP’s International Woman’s Day Cel- ebration honoring four Chilean women with the most prominent accomplishments. Monthly WFWP Partner Meetings in- cluding educational presentations, planning sessions and fundraising activities. Ongoing Service to the Home of the Las Rosas Foundation, assisting poor senior citi- zens. WFWP Japan donated US$1700 to purchase a commercial clothes dryer.

Dominican Republic

Activity Report from WFWP-Dominican Republic

Annual WFWP Awards Celebration on March 8th, the Int’al Woman Day

March 7, 2001 WFWP representatives visited the Government House in- troducing WFWP activities and presenting a gift to the First Lady of Chile received by Mrs. Alicia Pereiblanca (center), Cabinet Leader.

WFWP Japan donates Commercial Clothes Dryer to the Home of Las Rosas Foundation, March 16, 2001.

Ballet Group Performances - throughout 2001 and 20002 on TV, at schools and various WFWP functions. Clothing Distribution - Received donation (Jan 02) of 585 boxes of used clothing from Japanese NGO called AAA and distributed it (Mar 02) to 5 charitable organizations serving the handicapped. Medal of Merit - was awarded to the WFWP president by the President of the Dominican Republic, for her continued research on methods of education. She was one of 20 women recipients during a ceremony organized by the Ministry of Women Affairs for the International Woman Day March 8, 2002. International Woman Day Celebration -This event was organized by WFWP on March 11, 2002 and Dr. Elonea Perdomo of the Ministry of Women’s Af- fairs, spoke to 100 guests at the National Library about “Women’s Role in the Development of Culture.” Award Presentation - to WFWP for its social services to the handicapped during a rally attended by 1000 people.

Aids Seminar for 150 employees of the Popular Savings and Loan Association

AIDS Seminar - stressing the importance of family. Bazaars - fundraising activity to support local service projects. WFWP Library - opened in late April 2002; teacher was hired to help children with their homework. Japanese NGO AAA Visit - during May to see the result of their clothing donations. Foreign Lanuage Classes - WFWP organized French and English classes as well as in Origami Creation since May.

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Antigua & Barbuda

Activity Report from WFWP-Antigua & Barbuda

Pure Love Rallies - Promoting abstinence before marriage and fidelity within marriage. Visiting villages in Antigua in order to appeal for the importance of “Pure Love”for the prevention of HIV/Aids.

Ongoing Service Activities in Homes for the Elderly - Helping to make beds, clipping nails, serving and assisting to feed meals, teaching Origami, singing songs with them and so on …

Seminars for Community Leaders - to support them in their efforts to uplift and strengthen families.

Guatemala

Activity Report from WFWP- Guatemala

Monthly Meetings - for the education, spiritual enrichment and inspiration of the growing WFWP core group and for the planning and organization of upcoming service activities

Ongoing Service Projects - outreach mainly to the women in remote villages to supply them with basic necessities like soap, school supplies, milk and toys for their families and through the care and contact to uplift these women’s lives.

WFWP Representatives visit patients in a Lepra Hospital.

Fundraising Projects - most service activities are maintained through local fundraising.

Outreach to women in Vela Minas, a tiny village in the mountains.

Gathering the woman in front of a health center.

The WFWP Guatemala Core: Anna Villafuerte, Guadalupe de Marroquin, Dora Luz de Paniagua, Cristina de Morales, Ana Cu de Beza and Ulrike Bessell, WFWP President in Guatemala.

Statement: A Vital Element of Education

, continued from pg. 2 arise when believers lose sight of the needs to be “Education of character and diversities of religion, culture, gender and common values implicit in all religions and values” right along side today’s secular races. when their beliefs and practices consider education. “Education of Character and Values” is the only their own parochial interests and These values need to be integrated and key to preventing the destruction of human salvation. consistently applied at all levels of society, resource development. If we do not solidly There are a number of examples in human from the individual level including parents prevent the destruction of human resources history when cruel massacres and and children, at the community level development, we, the human family can holocausts were initiated. There is always including politicians, school teachers, never achieve and maintain permanent a danger when not only religious fanatics service organizations and so on as well as world peace, which has been a long- but also ideological dogmatists have the at national and international levels. cherished wish of the entire human family. power over every level of human family This education of character and values, as As we implement education policies and (in homes, communities, and nations.) practices that clearly enhance human its first priority, should recognize our development of body, mind and The first most important point for all of us common origin, or the Supreme Being that soul…through educating for academic as one human family is the need to is the foundation for universal principle and excellence, skills excellence, and excellence understand, recognize and promote the values. And universal principle and values of character, then the human family has a value of each human life, free from any should be able to transcend all the chance of achieving a world of peace. form of discrimination. This fundamental differences within the human family and basis for peace is wholly upheld by the connect us as one harmonious global To this end, the United Nations, especially United Nations. To establish this most family. It must certainly include the UNESCO and NGOS with a special focus essential common understanding of the teachings of respect and honor toward life on education, have a great responsibility value of each person universally, there itself as well as respect and honor of the and need to work together hand in hand.

Reports of DPI / NGO Briefings

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, continued from pg. 3 Based on the speaker’s presentations, since life experience can offer valuable approa- 1950, life expectancy in the world has ches to various problems that the younger increased by 22 years to age 66, and is generations face. projected to extend by an additional 10 After the presentations, the floor was opened years by 2050. Global fertility levels for discussion/questions and answer. The decreased since the late 1970’s. These two briefing was adjourned at 12:00 noon. trends caused the shift towards a higher DPI/NGO Communications Work- median age, creating a phenomena of aging shop: Demystifying Resource- societies. The share of persons 60 years and Raising: Fund-Raising and Beyond older will increase from 10% currently to The Briefing on the “DPI/NGO Com- munications Workshop took place at the Dag Hammarskjold Library Auditorium on 6 June 2002 at the UN HQ in New York. The morning session, which was focused on Fund-Raising was held from 10:30 am -12:00 noon. Mr. Mike McDermott, International Public Relations Counselor, Public Relations Society of America served as the moderator. Speakers were: Ms. Judith Phair, Vice President for Public Affairs, Council of Competitiveness Ms. Deanna Pelfrey, President, Pelfrey Associates, Ms. Nina Streitled, Fellow Public Relations Society of America, and Mr. James Holtje, Account Supervisor, Brouillard Communications. The speakers presented to NGOS, several ways of increasing the organizations’ funds to support their activities on a continuous Briefings , continued on pg. 9

Family and Aging: Opportunities and Challenges The briefing on “Family and Aging: Opportunities and Challenges”, in Observance of the International Day of Families was held on May 16 , 200, from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon at the Dag Hammarskjold Library Auditorium United Nations, New York. Speakers were: Mr. Mark Allen Belsey, 21% in 2050. Care giving of older family former Program Manager, Maternal and members is a socially essential task that Child Health, Family Planning, World younger family members perform. Health Organization; Ms. Odile Frank, Governments and societies have to respond Chief, Social Integration Branch, Division to these important tasks by recognizing the for Social Policy and Development, important role that families play in caring Department of Economic and Social for older family members. Affairs, and Ms. Helen Hamlin, Main Representative of the International Policy Suggestions: Federation on Aging, Chair, NGO Families must not be portrayed as social Committee on Aging. This Briefing was entities that only create costs for society. organized in cooperation with the Program Families should be seen as the fundamental on Family, Social Integration Branch of building block of society. Families should DESA and the NGO Committee on Aging. also be viewed in the context of the very The International Day of the Families was important social functions that they proclaimed by the United Nations General provide, such as raising, socializing and Assembly in its resolution 47/237 on educating the next generation, caring for September 20 1993. On May 15 , 2002, the elderly, and providing a supportive the eighth anniversary celebration of the environment to all family members. Older International Year of the Family was persons must be recognized for their social, observed. economic and political contributions. Their

“Women’s Role in Building World Peace through Non-Violence”

, continued from pg. 5

Opening Session, chair Mme. Al-Mufti the first school. indicated the direction for discussions, Dr. Wafa Al- stating, “We women should be peace Mobaireek, from makers.” The five main guidelines for dialog Saudi Arabia, noted that she mentioned were: 1. Cooperation 2. that she faced a Communication 3. Tolerance, 4. Accurate strong bias against expression of feelings 5. Creative conflict Muslims when resolution. She explained that we should going overseas. She cooperate to resolve issues, communicate criticized the clearly, serve others, and respect diversity. western media for These elements become the factors for exaggerating a creating peace. Our children must be taught negative image of these skills. Those who could not learn and Islam. Chair Al- practice them often became victims of Mufti stated that the conflict. The world, which shares a common UN is powerless in destiny, needs a new vision that can realize the resolution of higher levels of cooperation. conflicts, and that women should continue for women’s action in order to bring about to cry for peace until the governments in the peace in the Middle East. Dr. Maria Importance of Education for Women world are influenced. In the First Session on “Women’s Role in Shaping Civil Society,” Dr. Naima Al-Shayji, Issues Surrounding Women Union of Kuwait Women Associations, After a coffee break, the Second Session served as moderator. Ms. Oya Talat, a Turkish continued on the theme of “Equality, Cyprian chemist from North Cyprus Respect, and Non-Violence in the Home and presented her paper, intro-ducing the current Society.” The first speaker was Dr. Asya Al- state of the divided Cyprus. She stressed that Lamky, Assistant Dean for Research and Post the status of women in Cyprus is still low; Graduate Studies, Sultan Qaboos University, however, without the active participation of Oman. She introduced an awareness survey wo-men, an ideal society and strong families of working women in Oman. According to cannot be formed. her, the status of women has advanced since Next, Ms. Grace Moubarak, a lawyer from 1997, when many women attained political Lebanon, pointed out that women filled only posts. However, many women are struggling 2% of the seats in the parliaments in Arabic to balance the family and the work place. nations, in general, and the status of women Dr. Soad Fateem, educator from Egypt, in society and politics is weak. She quoted presented a paper stressing the importance the former UN Secretary General Boutros- of fostering in children tolerance and Ghali, who main-tained that without pro- acceptance that transcends race. Ms. Mirjana moting the status of women, there is no Abourahal from Lebanon referred to the reform or pros-perity. She stressed that message of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and education for women is vital, particularly the stated that peace comes from God, and is not education of child-ren in the home, which is realized without love. She reminded us that women in the Middle East do have a dream for true peace. Briefings , continued from pg. 8 In the following discussion, some participants raised the point that the basis. Other speaker’s presentations were definitions of discrimination against women focused on the principles of effective and are different between the Arab world and the productive public relations. West. Dr. Al-Lamky mentioned that society has a tendency to undervalue the contribution The afternoon session took place in made by women. Chair Al-Mufti pointed out Conference Room B, UN Headquarters. that the 75% of Jordan’s women have jobs The Session focused on Finding Other in order to support their families. Ms.

Hadjipavlou, lecturer at the University of Cyprus, proposed that the peace-loving culture of women must be expanded in order to eliminate the violence that has taken the lives of over 13 million lives of women and children in the last 87 years. In the following discussion, Ms. Roya Bozorgpour from Iran commented that those who profited the most from military expansion were the arms industries. Dr. Soad Fateem suggested not to use the term “enemy” from now on, that reform of our choice of words was also necessary in order to realize world peace. Dr. Dalia Steiner, President of WFWP Israel, editor and senior producer at Israel’s Channel One, emphasized that the time has come for this Conference to take concrete action for conflict resolution. Many other participants agreed when Ms. Oya Talat from Northern Cyprus also proposed to start a specific project for peace. The Crete Declaration Dr. Dalia Steiner from Israel stated in her presentation that conflict is the result of man separating from God. Conflict between mind and body of an individual is expanded into the family, society and nation. She introduced a plan to construct a “House of Peace,” a project to resolve conflict and realize peace. Dr. Amal Al-Zayani from Bahrain, then spoke on the backgrounds and types of conflicts. Resources . Moderators were Mr. Lester Shelagh Shalev, President of the Jerusalem Many expressed they felt a similar desire to Wilson, Chair of the Communications District Liberal Women’s Federation, Israel, take some kind of action. One of the three suspected that women themselves may be the participants from Israel, Ms. Samira Rohana, Workshop Committee and Ms. Joan Levy, ones who discriminate against women the a Israeli with Arab roots, explained about the Member of the Communications Workshop most, to which many agreed. Committee. Featured speakers included Action for Peace Chris Deri, Senior Vice President, The Third Session was on the “Various Elderman Stakeholder Strategies, NY, Ms. Causes of Violence and Women’s Response.” Gilda Chirafisi, Rotary International, Ms. Mrs. Laila Barakat of Egypt emphasized in Patricia Hill Williams, National Coalition her speech that conflict resolution should be of 100 Black Women, and Mr. Patrick implemented in a peaceful way. She stressed the importance of dialogue between Dciarratta, Friendship Ambassadors civilizations instead of conflict, and called Foundation. Middle East Peace , continued on pg. 11

discrimination in Israel against citizens like her. Ms. Carolyn Handschin, WFWP’s UN liaison in Geneva and moderator of the session, suggested formulating a declaration and action plan, summarizing the participants’ views and the role of women in relation to peace in the Middle East, to which all agreed wholeheartedly.

WFWP 10th Anniversary

On April 10th, 2002, WFWP celebrated its tenth anniversary at the Little Angels Performing Arts Center in Seoul, Korea with two thousand participants, including representative from around the world. Founder of WFWP, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon addressed the audience, saying, “WFWP was founded to lead the women’s era and to play a pivotal role in the women’s peace movement”. She went on to say that, women are non-confrontational beings, they are not ones to confront men, but wish to be on an equal footing with men, helping and embracing one another with true love. For that reason, the role of women in realizing a peaceful world is very important. She added that the next ten years is an important period for harvesting the fruit of a peaceful, ideal world. So, individuals, families and nations should work to realize a world of true peace. The members present were asked to work hard with pride as a movement for the purification of love. In her speech, International President Lan Chang from Taiwan and Dae Wha Chung part of their income to help needy women Young Moon said, “Last December, from Korea then conveyed greetings on and children. Initial recipients will be in WFWP was approved for the next four behalf of their national chapters. Messages North Korea. years as an NGO in general consultative of congratulations were read from Vice During dinner, Ambassador K.C. status with the UN Economic and Social President Annete Lu of Taiwan as well as Logeswaran of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Council. We have a firm foundation in the from the first ladies, Lee Hee-ho of Korea, Korea, wished WFWP success in all its nation and internationally.” She later stated, and the United States’ Laura Bush. endeavors and stated, “I am appreciative “On the foundation of our ten-year history, of the activities pertaining to building peace One of the highlights of the entertainment, let’s concentrate on service activity more and reconciliation. In this, WFWP has, no which followed, was a musical skit by the and begin a time of reconciliation and doubt, a leading role to play in this Kyeonggi Province branch which cooperation for building a peaceful era of century.” Hon. Jae-kyu Park, former expressed WFWPI’s determination to work one global family.” minister of the Korean government’s hard in promoting their 1 % Project, a drive Presidents Tetsuko Kuboki from Japan, to get the world’s people to donate a tiny Unification Ministry stressed that the role Alexa Ward from the United States, Po Ya of women is important for establishing peace between South and North Korea.” , continued from pg. 3 Following dinner, continental represen- groups. Youth will be directly involved in involved and join the Johannesburg tatives lit 160 candles, symbolic of the these plenaries. Issues to be discussed at Summit. participation of people from all over the the WSSD will include: water sanitation, Mr. Stephen Commins presented the World world in the 1% Project. Mrs. Hong Rae energy, agriculture, biodiversity and health. Development report 2004, emphasizing the Kim, whose family defected from North The second week of the summit will be importance of the inclusion of youth action Korea, lit candles representing the founders attended by heads of states. Other events for sustainable development. of WFWP. A hundred and sixty candles will include: NGO Forum, Business Forum, blazed clear and bright as if wishing Ms. Ghazal Badozamani and Ms. Yvonne Local Authorities Forum, as well as Science Godspeed. Maingey both spoke eloquently on the and Technology Forum. There will also be topics of education and creating youth Apologies & Corrections hundreds of events organized by youth involvement in decision-making, as well as Winter 2001-2002 Issue groups. The cutting edge of development the importance of creating activities that P4 Caption of photo correction from Mrs. is at the community level and the youth can teach children how to make a difference Akiko Yamanaka, Symposium Coordinator bring a unique contribution. In conclusion, for the future. to Ms. Mitsuko Horiuchi, Keynote Speaker. Mr. Desai encouraged everyone to get

International Youth Day

10 WFWPI-UN Newsletter

Award Presentation for Outstanding WFWP Chapters: from right Dr. Po Ya Chang, President of WFWP Taiwan; Founder Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon; Mrs. Tetsuko Kuboki, President of WFWP Japan; Mrs. Motoko Sugiyama, Vice President WFWP International, Director of UN Office.

55th Annual DPI/NGO Conference , continued from pg. 1

Promoting Reconciliation and Peace-Building: NGO Roles and Experiences

Midday NGO Workshops United Nations, New York - September 9-11, 2002

Middle East Peace , continued from pg. 9 After the long day, the group enjoyed dinner at a restaurant with a beautiful view of the seaside. Miss Sue Nigoghossian, emcee from UAE welcomed the Japanese observers warmly with her newly-learned, “ Yokoso (welcome)!” which drew a merry laugh. Mrs. Mirjana Abourahal from Lebanon initiated a dance and soon, everyone joined in on the floor. The women forgot the time and enjoyed the beautiful evening on the Island of Crete. An End to Conflict In the Fifth and Sixth Sessions of Day Three, participants divided into three groups and studied themes such as “leadership and responsibility,” “ideal family relations,” and “foundations for a peaceful society.” Each group reported a summary of its discussion. Many expressed, for instance, that “leaders should have a spirit of service,” and “leaders should bear responsibility for consequences.” The Seventh Session continued in the afternoon. Ms. Rana Taha, who works for the UN Institute of Disarmament Research

The Midday NGO Workshop took place from 1:15 -2:45 in various conference rooms, followed by afternoon session in Conference Room 4. All subsequent sessions (morning and after- noon) took place in Conference Room 4 for the next two days. Titles of the subsequent sessions were: “Re- establishing the Rules of Law and Encou-raging Good Gover-nance” afternoon sess-ion on September 9, “Restoring Social Services: Identifying Priorities” morning session on shared very insightful post-conflict in Geneva, introduced her grass-roots project experiences h had while working to make called “People to People.” She recommended September 10, “From Less than Zero: The Challenges of Rebuilding Economics” unity among seven different races in one that Israelis and Palestinians nurture trust community of Kosovo. Prof. Moon, through dialogue. As she described the afternoon session on September 10, “Against the Odds, The Process of WFWP International President shared how situation of the Palestinians with tears, many WFWP initiated the Bridge of Peace were touched deeply. Reconciliation” morning session on September 11, and “Demobilizing the War sisterhood movement starting from past In the discussion, Dr. Maria Hadjipavlou enemy nations such as Korea and Japan and from Cyprus evaluated Ms. Taha’s project Machines: Making Peace Last” afternoon session on September 11, followed by Japan and USA. She also spoke about her highly and stressed the importance of grass- experiences as a refugee from North Korea roots movements. Others stated that it was closing session. during the Korean war. During recent visits not enough to look only to the future to WFWP International had five to North Korea in 2001 & 2002 she learned resolve the Palestinian problem, and that it representatives attending the conference. to overcome feelings and develop was necessary to go back to the year 1948, Also WFWPI co-sponsored one of the compassion toward North Korea. Prof. when Israel established its nation, which Midday NGO Workshops with two other reminded everyone of how complex the issue Moon stated from her experience a starting NGOS, Conflict Transformation Working was. point for any dialogue toward Group and Fellowship of Reconciliation on reconciliation requires opportunities to In the Closing Session, Ms. Carolyn September 11.The workshop was entitled meet face to face and talk with each other Handschin gave a summary of the conference “Promoting Reconciliation and Peace- pointing out that the peace-loving nature of and listen to each other. (Prof. Moons building: NGO roles and Experiences.” Mr. women must be utilized to bring peace in the whole speech will be posted on the John Kim from Fellowship of Middle East; and that peace begins with the website.) Reconciliation USA as moderator, opened individual and the family. Chair Al-Mufti Because it was the anniversary of the Workshop with a moment of silent said she felt the strong desire of the prayer for the victims and families of September 11 and the General Assembly conference participants, to want to truly do of the UN was opened, the security in something for peace. September 11th terrorist attack a year ago. There were four panelists from four Manhattan was very tight and many streets Because a revision of part of the draft “Crete were closed. However, the 8th floor different NGOS: Mr. Peter Davis from Declaration” was proposed, the drafting Saferworld, Rev. William Tolbert III from conference room of the UN Church Center session continued after dinner and was where the workshop took place was almost completed with everyone’s consensus very Inter-Religious Council of Liberia, Mr. Latif Hajrizi from Council for Peace and full, with over 70 concerned and active late that day. Following the heated NGO representatives. Tolerance of Mitrovica, Kosovo, and Prof. discussions and the forming of new Lan Young Moon Park, International Refreshments were provided by the co- friendships during the three-day con-ference, President of WFWP. sponsors. The participants had a very warm the women parted, appreciating the support and friendly exchange with one another of WFWP Japan for the conference, and Mr. Davis from Saferworld emphasized knowing a great task was ahead for them. that NGOS need to have more access to the after the workshop. Security Council of the UN to work more ( For more details on the 55th DPI/NGO effectively. Rev. William from the Inter- Conference, please visit www.wfwp.org) Religious Council of Liberia shared his experiences (focusing efforts on inter- religious activities) in Liberia. Mr. Hajrizi

Prof.Moon Park is presenting her remarks on Sept 11, 2002 at the Midday NGO Workshop at the 55th DPI/NGO Conference, UNHQ

The Second Annual Forum on the Eradication of Poverty

UN Special Session On Children: A World Fit for Children

A Follow-up for the World Summit on Sustainable Development Building Partnership Children , continued from pg. 3 between the UN and Civil Society quarters in NY, as well as approximately Monday, December 2, 2002 250 supporting events sponsored by Governments, United Nations entities, UN Headquarters, New York NGOS and other international organiza- tions held at the UN, UNICEF and a number of surrounding venues in NY. These events included panel discussions, presentations, caucuses, networking opportunities and more, all with the theme of improving the world for children or helping to empower children to lead. The topics ranged from health matters, to achieving gender parity, education, even promoting children’s participation. WFWPI Representatives were in attendance at a number of the SSGA sessions. Of particular note was the Children’s Forum held at Manhattan Center in NY from May 5-7, 2002. The Children’s Forum, facilitated by UNICEF, was attended by youth representatives of Governments and NGOS. These youths, all under the age of 18, came together to discuss their views of the world, ways that youth can make a difference and the proposed outcome document. The Children’s Forum formulated a message that was delivered to the SSGA by two youth delegates on May 8, 2002. The message, “A World Fit For Us” is re-printed on page 12. (The complete text of the SSGA outcome document, “A World Fit For Children” can be found on the UN website, www.un.org.)

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Forum 2:00 - 6:00 pm Conference Room 4 Reception 6:00 – 8:00 pm Delegates Dining Hall - $30.00 Fee for Reception -

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A World Fit for Us: Children’s Forum Message

We are the world’s children. We are the victims of exploitation and abuse. We are street children. We are the children of war. We are the victims and orphans of HIV/AIDS. We are denied good quality education and health care. We are victims of political, economic, cultural, religious and environmental discrimination. We are children whose voices are not being heard: it is time we are taken into account. We want a world fit for children, because a world fit for us is a world fit for everyone. In this world, We see respect for the rights of the child: • governments and adults having a real and effective commitment to the principle of children’s rights and applying the Convention on the Rights of the Child to all children, • safe, secure and healthy environments for children in families, communities, and nations. We see an end to exploitation, abuse and violence: • laws that protect children from exploitation and abuse being implemented and respected by all, • centres and programmes that help to rebuild the lives of victimized children. We see an end to war: • world leaders resolving conflict through peaceful dialogue instead of by using force, • child refugees and child victims of war protected in every way and having the same opportunities as all other children, • disarmament, elimination of the arms trade and an end to the use of child soldiers. We see the provision of health care: • affordable and accessible life saving drugs and treatment for all children, • strong and accountable partnerships established among all to promote better health for children. We see the eradication of HIV/AIDS: • educational systems that include HIV prevention programmes, • free testing and counselling centres, • information about HIV/AIDS freely available to the public, • orphans of AIDS and children living with HIV/AIDS cared for and enjoying the same opportunities as all other children. We see the protection of the environment: • conservation and rescue of natural resources, • awareness of the need to live in environments that are healthy and favourable to our development, • accessible surroundings for children with special needs. We see an end to the vicious cycle of poverty: • anti poverty committees that bring about transparency in expenditure and give attention to the needs of all children, • cancellation of the debt that impedes progress for children. We see the provision of education: • equal opportunities and access to quality education that is free and compulsory, • school environments in which children feel happy about learning, • education for life that goes beyond the academic and includes lessons in understanding, human rights, peace, acceptance and active citizenship. We see the active participation of children: • raised awareness and respect among people of all ages about every child’s right to full and meaningful participation, in the spirit of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, • children actively involved in decision making at all levels and in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating all matters affecting the rights of the child. We pledge an equal partnership in this fight for children’s rights. And while we promise to support the actions you take on behalf of children, we also ask for your commitment and support in the actions we are taking because the children of the world are misunderstood. We are not the sources of problems; we are the resources that are needed to solve them. We are not expenses; we are investments. We are not just young people; we are people and citizens of this world. Until others accept their responsibility to us, we will fight for our rights. We have the will, the knowledge, the sensitivity and the dedication. We promise that as adults we will defend children’s rights with the same passion that we have now as children. We promise to treat each other with dignity and respect. We promise to be open and sensitive to our differences. We are the children of the world, and despite our different backgrounds, we share a common reality. We are united by our struggle to make the world a better place for all. You call us the future, but we are also the present.

Meeting of Under 18 Delegates to the United Nations Special Session on Children New York 5 7 May 2002

3rd WFWPI Leader’s Workshop Nov 15-20, 2002

Shonon International Village Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Mrs. Lan Young Moon Park, WFWPI President, and Mrs. Tetsuko Kuboki, WFWP Japan President invite all WFWP Continental Vice Presidents, Secretary Generals, National Chap- ters Presidents and officers to this 3rd WFWPI Leader’s Workshop. Conference and a tour of the local activities of WFWP Japan.