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

Buenos Aires, Argentina – To mark International Women’s Day, UPF-Argentina co-hosted two programs in March, with special recognition of exceptional women for service to their communities. On March 19, 2026, UPF-Argentina and Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Argentina held an event at El Templete, a hall owned by the Buenos Aires City government, located in Parque Patricios. In his welcoming speech, Mr. Miguel Werner , president of UPF-Argentina, recalled the sometim

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

Lusaka, Zambia – The International Media Association for Peace (IMAP) Zambia held a seminar for media professionals, educators and students at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Lusaka on March 19, 2026, on the theme “Building a Peace-Driven Media Culture.” The event, sponsored by UPF-Zambia, was endorsed by the Ministry of Information and Media; a ministry representative officially opened the event. The program focused on ethical journalism, and sought to position journalists as "a

Voronezh, Russia – In preparation for the upcoming Earth Day, a series of environmental education activities were held in Voronezh and across the Voronezh Region. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about ecological responsibility and inspire young people to take care of the environment in their daily lives. On March 16, an interactive eco-games session was organized at Secondary School No. 47 in Voronezh, bringing together around 60 students. The event was organized by

South and Central America – A panel of leaders from South and Central America and the Caribbean region met in a webinar on March 16, 2026, to discuss the theme: “Women, Leadership, and Management: Building Strong Families and Healthy Societies.” The event was organized and sponsored by UPF and several of its affiliated associations. Mr. Mario Salinas , secretary general for UPF-Latin America and regional coordinator for the International Media Association for Peace (IMAP), m

Yaoundé, Cameroon – During a visit to Cameroon in March, Dr. Zinsou Paterne, secretary general of UPF-Africa and continental coordinator of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), presided over a multisectoral peace conference and secured a historic diplomatic breakthrough by establishing a national IAPP headquarters within the National Assembly. On March 12, 2026, UPF-Africa conducted a high-level Peace Promotion Conference and Investiture Cerem

The Universal Peace Federation expresses deep concern over the escalating violence in the Middle East. Each escalation places civilians at the center of the crisis causing loss of life, displacement, and severe disruption to essential services and daily life. UPF stands in solidarity with civilians across the region who are enduring the human cost of conflict. We call on all parties to exercise restraint, prioritize the protection of civilian populations, and ensure safe and

Prague, Czech Republic – To mark International Women’s Day, UPF-Czech Republic organized a conference entitled “Women in the 21st Century” at CEVRO University in Prague on March 9, 2026. The conference was well attended and attracted several first-time participants. Two panels discussed the status of women throughout history from the perspectives of religion, politics, economics, family and social life. Topics included an examination of feminism as to whether it has solved p