50th Anniversary Celebration of AWC: Global Launch of Endorsement for the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity in Vienna
On April 1, 2025, World Citizenship Day, Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, Vice President of the Association of World Citizens (AWC) and President of the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), hosted the 50th Anniversary Celebration of AWC in Vienna, Austria. Prominent leaders from various countries attended the event to commemorate AWC’s milestone achievements. At this historic moment, Dr. Hong announced the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity, co-signed by esteemed figures including former President of Montenegro Filip Vujanović, former President of Ecuador Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, former President of Trinidad and Tobago Anthony Thomas Aquinas Carmona, former President of Tunisia Moncef Marzouki, Director of the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES) and former Austrian Defense Minister Werner Fasslabend, and President of the Marmara Group Foundation of Türkiye, Dr. Akkan Suver, among others. This initiative aims to promote the values of transparency and integrity, fostering cultural prosperity and sustainable global development for future generations. On the same day, Dr. Hong was honored with the Global Peace Contribution Award.
AWC is a United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)-accredited NGO. In a special video address for the 50th anniversary, AWC President, Dr. Rene Wadlow reflected on the organization’s founding in San Francisco in 1975 and emphasized the importance of global citizenship. He highlighted AWC’s four avenues of action: the resolution of armed conflicts, the promotion and protection of human rights, ecologically-sound development, and education for world citizenship in the spirit of the UNESCO-led program - Education for Global Citizenship. He called for collective efforts to protect the Earth, promote peace, and foster global solidarity. In recognition of Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze’s long-standing contributions to peace, former President of Trinidad and Tobago, Anthony Thomas Aquinas Carmona, presented the Global Peace Contribution Award to Dr. Hong on behalf of AWC President Rene Wadlow.
Delivering a keynote speech titled "Creating a New Era of Happiness for World Citizens,” Dr. Hong underscored the importance of responsibility and conscience in global citizenship: “Sustainability begins with peace, and peace itself is rooted in conscience. When conscience is paired with aspiration and action, it becomes a powerful force that generates hope for humanity. Every thought and action taken by a world citizen plays a vital role in shaping the destiny of our shared planet.” “Inner peace and a positive mindset are the bedrock of resilience and purposeful direction. It is through the awakening of conscience that we find clarity in chaos, uphold truth in adversity, and act with fairness and compassion. This awakening enables us to extend a helping hand, not only to ourselves but to others, and to nurture love—for ourselves and for all of humankind.” Dr. Hong encouraged everyone to become a leader of conscience, transforming hope into meaningful action, and striving for peace and security with conscience-driven hope.
Former President of Ecuador, Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, stated that Dr. Hong has played a crucial role through his vital voice and actions, guiding young people and people all over the world in fostering peace, friendship, and world citizenship. She emphasized that working alongside young people is essential to realizing the identity of a global citizen. She also expressed her commitment to continuing working with youth and educators in Ecuador and Latin America, just as Dr. Hong has done.
Recognizing integrity and transparency as the foundation of justice, stability, and prosperity, Dr. Hong and six influential leaders launched the global endorsement campaign for the “Declaration of Transparency and Integrity,” marking a historic milestone.
Werner Fasslabend, former Austrian Minister of Defense, stressed that integrity is no longer valued as it was decades ago. He pointed out that not only in politics but also in private conflicts, integrity and transparency are essential for fair communication based on facts and trust—rather than fake and personal gain.
Anthony Thomas Aquinas Carmona, former President of Trinidad and Tobago, likened corruption to a hydra-headed snake, fueled by institutional and governmental impunity. He warned that substantive subterfuge has become the weapon of choice for the corrupt and recalcitrant. With open, clear, and transparent processes, adverse perceptions fall by the wayside, which is crucial for ensuring human rights, security, and protection.
Dr. Akkan Suver, President of the Marmara Group Foundation, Türkiye, emphasized that the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity paved the way for the future for global citizens. He expressed his intention to jointly promote this important initiative and move forward together in that direction. He urged collective action to advance this vital initiative.
To conclude the event, Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze presented paintings symbolizing harmony, love, and the coexistence of humanity and nature. He conveyed his best wishes to the distinguished guests and encouraged everyone to work together to unleash their potential and make a lasting impact on the world.