Prague, Czech Republic – Experts on family issues shared their perspectives at a conference hosted by UPF-Czech Republic on May 25, 2006, in Prague, to mark the International Day of Families. Ms. Nina Nováková, a former member of Parliament and currently chairwoman of the Association of Christian Seniors, spoke on the topic, “Family and the Search for One’s Own Identity.” She pointed out that humans are social beings who want to belong somewhere and need to know their identit

Tirana, Albania – To mark the International Day of Families and UPF’s Month of Family, UPF-Albania and the Tirana Regional Peace Council held an event entitled “The Family – The Foundation of Peace and Social Order” on May 25, 2026. Among the 200 participants were ambassadors for peace, personalities from various fields, friends and special guests. The purpose of the meeting was to promote family values and raise awareness about the importance of educating younger generations

On Africa Day, the Universal Peace Federation joins people across Africa and around the world in honoring the founding of the Organization of African Unity on May 25, 1963. This day recalls the long journey toward African unity, freedom and dignity. It also invites a renewed look toward the future. Africa is a continent of spirit, memory, family, youth, courage and promise. In 2026, Africa Day stands within a strong continental and international focus. The African Union 2026

Godomey, Benin – A joint commemoration of World Football Day and Africa Day brought together more than 100 participants on May 24, 2026, in a lively and fraternal atmosphere marked by unity and celebration. The event was organized by UPF-Africa, UPF-Benin, and the Youth Department of FFWPU-Benin. The program included a celebratory segment in support of the ten African nations that qualified for FIFA World Cup 2026; the official launch of the Play Soccer, Make Peace initiative

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – A two-day Peace Leadership Seminar, organized by UPF-Tanzania at the Tulivu Centre in Dar es Salaam from May 23-24, 2026, focused on the theme “Building One Family Under God: Principles of Peace and Service.” The seminar brought together 65 participants from faith communities, youth groups and civil society organizations. Facilitated by Prof. Benezer David Mwang’ombe, secretary general of UPF-Tanzania, the training covered the UPF founders’ vision an

In the closing days of “UPF’s Month of Family,” Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Bahá’í and Buddhist observances form an unusual sequence that points toward memory, sacrifice, spiritual renewal and care across generations. For several days at the end of May 2026, the calendar seems to slow down and listen. One religious tradition after another enters a sacred season. Jewish families gather for Shavuot. Christians celebrate Pentecost. Muslim communities prepare for Eid al-Adha. Bahá

On May 21, 2026, the international community observes the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, a United Nations observance led by UNESCO. It was declared by the UN General Assembly in 2002 following UNESCO’s adoption of the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity. The day draws attention not only to the richness of the world’s cultures, but also to the role of intercultural dialogue in peace and sustainable development. It recalls a central truth

Manila, Philippines – The International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), a UPF initiative, organized an international webinar on May 20, 2026, under the theme “The Role of Parliamentarians in Reducing Polarization: Advancing Unity Beyond National, Religious, Ethnic and Political Divides.” The event brought together distinguished parliamentarians, peace leaders, diplomats and participants from diverse regions to address the growing challenges of polarization a

Bratislava, Slovakia – As in past years, UPF-Slovakia held an event to commemorate the UN International Day of Families. This year Mr. Patrik Daniška, a lawyer and prominent figure from the Catholic movement, was the guest speaker at the event on May 18, 2026. His talk was entitled “The Struggle for Life and Family – How to Succeed in It?” Mr. Daniška is chairman of the Institute for Human Rights and Family Policy, and is best known as the main organizer of the National March

Biel/Bienne, Switzerland – Ambassadors for peace and friends gathered on May 11, 2026, to mark the International Day of Families in Biel/Bienne and on Zoom. The program focused on the spiritual dimension of individual and family life. Texts featuring major religions on “separation from the world” were read and explained by the ambassadors for Peace onsite and online, from Europe and Africa. The texts in World Scripture, A Comparative Anthology of Sacred Texts – an interfaith

Amsterdam, Netherlands – On Sunday afternoon, May 17, 2026, UPF-Netherlands and Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) organized a celebration of the UN International Day of Families. The UPF-Netherlands secretary general, Dr. Willem Koetsier, warmly welcomed everyone, before reading the United Nations’ explanation of this year’s theme for the day: “The theme of the 2026 observance, “Families, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing,” underscores how widening inequalities are sha

Moscow, Russia – An evening program, “Time of Family Happiness,” was held at the Peace Embassy in Moscow on May 16, 2026, dedicated to the International Day of Families. The event opened with a formal address by Ms. Tatiana Kuznetsova, coordinator of the International Association of Arts and Culture for Peace (IAACP) in Russia. Ms. Kuznetsova shared her understanding that an ideal family requires the presence of God, and that God awaits an invitation to enter every home where