Australia and 92 Countries commemorate the Proclamation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)
"Because of the DPCW, My Voice Creates Peace"
Throughout March 2025 Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) commemorates the proclamation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) in 93 countries around the globe, including Australia. The commemoration event was held in Sydney on 22nd and in Victoria state on 29th March 2025, attracting over 500 youth, women’s rights advocates, religious leaders, members of parliament and teachers. The event served as a powerful platform for leaders and advocates across different sectors to unite under the theme "Because of the DPCW – My Voice Creates Peace." HWPL, a UN-accredited international Peace NGO has been at the forefront of establishing a legal foundation for realizing peace since proclaiming the DPCW in 2016.
In Sydney, the commemoration began with an opening cultural performance by local groups, highlighting the diversity of local communities through traditional music and dance. A local faith leader highlighted the importance of cooperation between different religious groups in achieving lasting peace. During the event, HWPL announced their detailed plans to increase scripture dialogues and strengthen interfaith understanding. Many attendees stated that the event inspired them to take an active role in peace efforts within their communities.
“The DPCW gives us a clear framework for peace, but it’s the commitment of local faith and community leaders that will make this vision a reality,” - Faith leader from Sydney.
In Victoria, the event included the formalisation of an MOU partnership between HWPL and the Hazara Council of Australia (FHCA) to collaborate on peace-building efforts, policy discussions, and community support initiatives. Under this agreement, the FHCA and HWPL’s will mutually support each other’s peace building efforts and advocacy. The PETE (Peace Education Trainer’s Education) graduation ceremony recognised newly certified peace education trainers who will play a key role in creating a culture of peace and reducing bullying. The program also featured a peace letter-writing campaign and networking sessions to strengthen the peace movement.
"Respect is the key to healing divisions and bringing communities together. With so much misinformation influencing young minds, it’s crucial to teach understanding and empathy from an early age. I’m deeply inspired to help teenagers see beyond the headlines, understand different perspectives, and stand against racism with compassion and truth." - Peace Education Training Participant from Melbourne
Looking ahead, HWPL plans to build on the momentum from the Sydney event by increasing the frequency of scripture dialogues and encouraging greater participation from local faith leaders to strengthen interfaith understanding and cooperation. In Melbourne, HWPL will focus on deepening the collaboration with FHCA through expanded policy discussions. Peace education trainers will be supported through ongoing training and the curriculum will be expanded further throughout Victoria. Through targeted efforts, HWPL aims to create a more unified and resilient society, where individuals are empowered to actively contribute to lasting peace.
