Bangkok, Thailand – Viewers all across the region joined two sessions of an online peace education seminar hosted by UPF-Asia Pacific on the theme “The Vital Role of Marriage and Family in Building Nations of Peace and Prosperity” on Oct. 26 and Nov. 9, 2024. A total of 306 participants from 20 nations participated in this online event.
They included peace ambassadors, community leaders, youth and students who attended watch parities in various countries throughout the region, while others joined online from home or office.
Building on the foundation of the Asia Pacific Leadership Conferences held over a 10-year period, the program focused on the urgent need to promote universal moral and family values. To counter the breakdown of families, rising divorce rates, teenage pregnancies, youth immorality and population decline, presenters emphasized that the family is the school of love and peace and the best environment for raising children to become mature and responsible citizens.
Opening remarks by Hon. Ek Nath Dhakal, chair of UPF-Asia Pacific, were followed by special remarks from Pres. Masaichi Hori of FFWPU Asia Pacific.
UPF-Asia Pacific presenters included Dr. Robert S. Kittel, education director, on “The Need for Universal Values” and “Building Blocks for Social Peace and Sustainable Development”; Mr. Hajime Saito, vice chairman, on “UPF’s Solutions: Case Studies of Local and Global Models”; and Mrs. Ursula McLackland, secretary general, on “Today’s Challenges to Marriage and Families.”
The speakers quoted a wide range of social studies and research, as well as their own experience, that children benefit from being raised by their biological parents in a warm and loving home, with an attentiveness to the needs of others.
Several peace ambassadors gave their positive reflections and comments following the presentations. Closing remarks were offered by Mr. Hajime Saito on Oct. 26, and by Dr. Lek Thaveetermsakul, honorary vice chairman of UPF-Asia Pacific, on Nov. 9.
Participants were touched by the practical examples of how to improve their family relationships, how to cultivate mutual respect, understanding and peaceful interactions. Many said they were determined to apply these lessons in their own lives.
By Ursula McLackland, Secretary General, UPF-Asia Pacific November 9, 2024
