Global Leaders and First Ladies Unite to Celebrate the International Day of Peace 2025
Highlighting Women’s Empowerment, Transparency, Integrity, and Actionable Steps Toward Global Harmony and Sustainability
In celebration of the International Day of Peace 2025 and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, the Africana Women Working Group at the UN, the Permanent Observer Mission of the Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation to the UN, the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), and the PVBLIC Foundation co-hosted an event at the Salvation Army International Social Justice Commission Auditorium on September 22. The theme was “First Ladies Becoming Actions for Peace: Ambition for Women as Key Players in Promoting Sustainable Development at UNGA 80.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in his message, emphasized that this year’s Peace Day calls on everyone to act against the devastation of war, which destroys lives, uproots families, and undermines human dignity. He stressed that peace requires ending conflict, combating racism and misinformation, and fostering respect, stability, and sustainable development. “Where we have peace, we have hope. Families unite, communities rebuild, children learn and play. Peace cannot wait—our work starts now,” he declared.
In line with the 2025 theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” the event featured discussions on gender action for SDG 16, women’s roles in promoting sustainable development, and First Ladies’ contributions to global peace. Numerous leaders and peace advocates shared their insights.
Prof. Ada Okika, Coordinator for the Africana Women Working Group at the UN, delivered the opening remarks, welcoming attendees and emphasizing a strong commitment to building a peaceful society through concrete action, especially in times of turmoil and uncertainty. She noted that this year’s theme goes beyond envisioning peace, urging good people to mobilize, uphold human rights, and contribute to education. She also called on everyone to act on all possible opportunities to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
Sergio Fernandez de Cordova, former Permanent Observer to the UN and President of the PVBLIC Foundation, underscored that peace is not given but built daily through respect, diversity, and unity. Amid conflict and inequality, women’s leadership and voices are indispensable in shaping a just and peaceful world. He stressed that peace requires action beyond words—embracing diversity as beauty, ensuring no one is left behind, and pursuing sustainable solutions. His message was clear: actions must prove that peace is possible and guide humanity toward a just, inclusive future.
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, President of FOWPAL, delivered a powerful address, calling on all nations to implement governance rooted in transparency and integrity, uphold fundamental human rights, and build societies based on justice and fairness. He stressed the importance of prioritizing the rights of women and children, empowering them to realize their potential, and contributing to harmony. Dr. Hong also urged the promotion of conscience-guided education as the foundation of holistic education for humankind—an education that helps the next generation distinguish right from wrong and advance in both technology and spirituality while remaining grounded in ethics and morality.
Dr. Nabhit Kapur, Permanent Observer for the Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation to the UN, highlighted the urgent need for action amid global turbulence. He linked peace to equality, empowerment, and access to basic resources, and celebrated the voices of marginalized groups, particularly African women. He emphasized the importance of dialogue, trust-building, and investment in water, sanitation, and community development, calling for collective and immediate efforts to foster a more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable world.
Ann Marie Davis, First Lady of the Bahamas, who rang the Bell of World Peace and Love in 2024, emphasized that peace begins at home. She called for equality and women’s empowerment, reducing gender-based violence, supporting youth, and ensuring inclusion for people with disabilities. She highlighted the importance of NGOs, regional cooperation, and dialogue in building lasting peace at both local and global levels.
Another highlight of the event was FOWPAL’s Bell of World Peace and Love ceremony, where four leaders rang the Bell and made heartfelt peace wishes.
Sarah Wescoat Williams, President of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, stated, “May every seed of peace grow and expand every effort, every word, every thought, and every prayer that seeks peace for all mankind.” She praised FOWPAL’s peace song and described Dr. Hong’s message as a powerful call to action. Stressing that transparency and integrity are essential values in a constantly changing world, she urged that they be embraced by all.
Dr. Hyginus Gene Leon, Ambassador at Large for Saint Lucia, wished for everyone to “respect nature and preserve it for generations to come, providing rights to all of creation—humans, biodiversity, and biomass.” He expressed great honor in ringing the Bell of World Peace and Love, calling peace a harmonious state. He emphasized, “Without transparency, people don’t know. If they don’t know, they cannot trust. If they cannot trust, then there is tension. If there is tension, there is no peace. So, transparency leads to integrity.”
Sergio Fernandez de Cordova wished for “respect and dignity for all humans, our nature. Peace for all living things.” He described ringing the Bell as a deeply spiritual experience, emphasizing that peace requires concrete action—building infrastructure, connecting people, and sparking micro-movements that grow into global change.
Her Royal Highness Princess Ncengencenge, Senator of Eswatini, stated, “I wish Africa would break all barriers for the Alpha Generation and beyond of young women in Africa.” She described ringing the Bell as a rare and tranquil experience symbolizing hope and harmony. Stressing Africa’s urgent need to silence conflict and rebuild, she highlighted Eswatini’s reputation for peace and stability. She emphasized, “Without transparency, there is no going forward, because it must first begin with leadership.”
Dr. Hong presented the Compass Clock of Conscience to influential leaders. The clock symbolizes conscience as both a guide and a reminder—pointing humanity toward right action with integrity and urging timely choices to secure peace, sustainability, and a hopeful future.
During the event, FOWPAL presented the songs “The Power of Peace and Love” and “Happiness Is Everywhere,” sharing uplifting energy to encourage continued efforts for a better world.
When interviewed, Prof. Ada Okika shared that she has volunteered at the United Nations for over 10 years and encouraged young people to engage in volunteer work to build knowledge, connections, and opportunities that open doors for the future. She encouraged them to stay motivated, enjoy their work, and continue contributing, knowing their efforts matter. She praised Dr. Hong for his compassion, conscience, and dedication, inspiring others to carry on his mission while valuing people and making a lasting impact on the world.
Prof. Okika presented the Gender Priority Strategy Award to Dr. Hong in recognition of his tireless dedication to women’s empowerment, peace, and education. Over the decades, Dr. Hong has led FOWPAL to 120 nations, spreading messages of conscience, hope, transparency, and integrity. His lifelong commitment continues to inspire global citizens to take action for a more just, harmonious, and sustainable future.
