UPF International Stands with the Afghan People on Afghan Independence Day

On Afghanistan’s Independence Day, the Universal Peace Federation extends warm congratulations to the people of Afghanistan. This is a day of unity and dignity, cherished by Afghans of all backgrounds.

Afghanistan stands at a turning point. With reduced violence, new possibilities arise for lasting peace and development. We honor the nation’s rich culture, deep faith, and enduring resilience - qualities that offer a strong foundation for national unity. We especially acknowledge the spiritual wisdom of Afghan society, and affirm that God is one for all peoples and faiths.

UPF recalls its initiatives in Kabul and the South Asia Peace Initiative, as well as our work with Ambassadors for Peace in and around Afghanistan. We value our continuing engagement in neighboring Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, where efforts to promote stability and peace are ongoing.

We support the constructive work of international agencies that cooperate with Afghan authorities to deliver education, healthcare, and climate-related solutions. UNICEF’s community-based education, WHO-led health programs, and Afghanistan’s involvement in water and climate dialogues offer models of practical cooperation.

We also recognize grassroots efforts led by organizations like the Afghan Red Crescent Society and the Aga Khan Development Network. Their dedication to service in education, healthcare, and rural development is helping to build trust and hope.

As part of our 100-day campaign toward the UN International Day of Peace, we call for inclusive dialogue, mutual respect, and renewed international engagement. Afghanistan’s peace and recovery matter to all.

The future depends on trust. Let us walk together across communities and borders to support a future of peace, dignity, and opportunity for the Afghan people.

UPF USA: Peacebuilding Seminar in Washington, DC is a Call to Action

Tomiko Duggan June 28, 2025

Washington D.C., United States – UPF-IAPD held a one-day educational seminar “Act Now for Building Peace” at The Washington Times on June 28, 2025. It was part of an ongoing series of programs focused on peace building, centered on UPF core values: interdependence, mutual prosperity, universal values, and interfaith cooperation.

Ms. Tomiko Duggan, senior vice president, warmly greeted the guests and emphasized the importance of collaboration among leaders from faith communities in building a peaceful nation and way of life.

Dr. Robert Kittel, co-chair of UPF and former education director in Asia-Pacific, introduced an innovative approach in his presentations on “Building Block for Peace” and “Creating a Culture of

Heart.” He emphasized the essential role of the family as the building block for peace, especially loving family relationships as pillars that stabilize the family.

Dr. Michael Jenkins, president of UPF-North America, presented the UPF vision, its historic programs in the Middle East, and an overview of UPF’s global developments. He provided insight on the impact of UPF on peace efforts in the Middle East, and UPF co-founder Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon’s World Peace Summit with global political and religious leaders.

The seminar was attended by 97 guests, including a group of 31 high school students from Istanbul Beyoglu Anatolian Imam Hatip High School, one of the top public high schools in Turkey. These students had passed difficult entrance exams to enter this school, and then were selected to come to the United States for a five-week curriculum on peacebuilding efforts.

A survey conducted to assess responses to the seminar showed a high level of appreciation and inspiration among the students. At the conclusion, all students and youth leaders from the local community received a Certificate of Appreciation for their engagement and participation.

An important highlight of the day’s program was the appointment of prominent leaders from faith and business communities as ambassadors for peace. Their appreciation of this appointment and determination to fulfill its mandate reflected the beautiful and joyful spirit of unity and harmony among the seminar’s attendees.