Easter is a profoundly Christian celebration of the Resurrection, yet its spirit also has the power to open hearts to reconciliation, mutual respect, and a deeper awareness of our shared human calling. It is one of the most sacred and beloved seasons in the Christian world, a joyful proclamation that Jesus Christ is risen; that love is stronger than hatred, life stronger than death, and that no darkness is so deep that God cannot bring light into it. For Christians, Easter is

Dr. Hak Ja Han, co-founder of the Universal Peace Federation, has been nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize in the category of Peace and Fraternity between Nations. The nomination was formally submitted by Dr. Jan Figel , former European Union Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief and acting president of the Forum for Religious Freedom (FOREF) Europe. In his nomination, Dr. Figel pointed to Dr. Han’s decades of work in interreligious dialogue, humanitarian coope

As April 2026 begins, the Universal Peace Federation enters the second full month of its 100 Days of Serving Community campaign, running from February 20 to June 1. March was the Month of Partnerships; April is the Month of Service. Partnerships build trust through practical action in society. Service reaches beyond charity: it reduces social isolation, renews shared public spaces, supports vulnerable families, assists those in need, and builds interpersonal trust. This focus

Tel Aviv, Israel  – The Center of Scientology Israel convened a timely webinar bringing together religious leaders from diverse faith traditions to address the theme “Faith and Overcoming Challenges During Times of Crisis.” Representatives of UPF-Israel participated in the program on March 30, 2026, alongside other faith leaders. The webinar took place against the backdrop of the ongoing stress and trauma affecting many people in the region due to the current conflict. The or

As the United Nations marks the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30, this observance closes March, dedicated to partnerships, and opens April as UPF’s month of service within its 100 Days of Serving Community campaign from February 20 to June 1, 2026. The International Day of Zero Waste  is a reminder that waste is not only a technical issue but a human one. In 2026 the day focuses on food waste, placing it squarely within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,

South and Central America  –A panel of leaders from South America, Central America and the Caribbean joined on March 26, 2026, to commemorate UN World Water Day in a webinar with the theme: "Protection of the Environment and Water Resources: A Path to Peace, Well-being and Human Development."   Sponsored by UPF in collaboration with affiliated associations, the event was moderated by Mr. Mario Salinas, secretary general for UPF-Latin America and regional coordinator of the In

IAACP, United States  – The International Association of Arts and Culture for Peace (IAACP) held a webinar on March 26, 2026, featuring four panelists presenting on the power of art and music to create peace and foster healing. The program was hosted and moderated by Mr. David Eaton , global coordinator for IAACP, who introduced UPF’s message about art as a vehicle for unity and peace. He quoted the famous composer and conductor, Mr. Leonard Bernstein, regarding art's power t

IMAP, United States  – The International Media Association for Peace (IMAP) USA sponsored a webinar on March 24, 2026, titled “Negotiating the Church – State – Religious Freedom Relationship.” It featured two speakers from the Czech Republic, who shared their experiences with religious persecution under the Soviet occupation of Czechoslovakia and in the newly formed Czech Republic. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Ray Lipowcan,  executive director for UPF-Pennsylvania. Ms.

Tetovo, North Macedonia  – UPF-Albania took part in the closing event of the INNOV8PEACE Project, implemented by the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) Europe and the Middle East (EUME) in cooperation with the University of Tetovo, and co-funded by the European Union, on March 24, 2026. The conference, “From Youth Initiatives to Sustainable Peace,” was held at the University of Tetovo, bringing together around 150 professors, academics, students

Each year, from March 21 to 27, the United Nations observes the Week of Solidarity with Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination, proclaimed by the General Assembly in resolution A/RES/34/24. The week begins with the  International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination , rooted in the memory of the Sharpeville massacre of 1960, when 69 peaceful protestors in South Africa were killed under apartheid. It also stands within the legal and moral frame

Paris, France  – In conjunction with International Women's Day, a conference and debate entitled "Women's Diplomacy: A Lever for Rights, Justice, and Action" was held at the Espace Barrault in Paris on March 21, 2026. The event was organized by UPF-France and Women's Federation for World Peace (WFWP) France. Moderated by Ms. Brigitte Wada , president of WFWP France, the event brought together four experienced speakers to explore the role of women in peace processes and intern

As Muslims around the world conclude the holy month of Ramadan and celebrate Eid al Fitr, the Universal Peace Federation extends its warm congratulations and sincere good wishes to Muslim individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Eid marks the end of Ramadan, a month devoted to reflection, self-discipline, and care for others. In a world marked by war, mistrust, and social fragmentation, these practices carry meaning far beyond one religious community.  The Quran expr