Family Federation for World Peace and Unification Responds to Prime Minister Abe Attack

This is the “final version” sent to 456 addresses (media and organizations) within the Netherlands via the ANP (General Dutch Press).

19-07-2022 - 12:28 - AMSTERDAM

Gapyeong, South Korea / Amsterdam (July 19, 2022) - The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU), internationally and in the Netherlands, is deeply saddened and shocked by the news of the fatal attack on Japan’s former prime minister, Mr Shinzo Abe. Various media reported that the attack was allegedly committed by a son of a female member of the Family Federation in Japan. The Family Federation deeply regrets all this and offers the family of Prime Minister Abe, his kindred spirits and party members sincere condolences. Our thoughts also go out to the perpetrator and his mother, who have been caught up in a great tragedy.

Police in Japan have said the suspect disliked a religious organization to which his mother had donated a lot in the past, despite their dire financial situation. The Family Federation in Japan has confirmed that this woman is known to them and that one of her buildings was shot at before the attack on the prime minister. The Family Federation assumes that the hatred focuses on their organization. They have therefore launched an internal investigation into this catastrophic event.

In some Rallys of Hope, organized by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) together with the Family Federation, Prime Minister Abe has given a message of peace via video as one of several speakers. Some media parties report that the prime minister was murdered because of ties to the Family Federation. Other media reports have labeled the murder as an act of terror committed by a radicalized person.

UPF is an independent NGO that has an advisory role to the United Nations Economic and Social Council. In the events it organizes, speakers are invited because of their expertise and/or their special role as leaders in the world. There was no direct link between the Japanese prime minister and UPF, not even with the FFWPU.

Police in Japan are conducting an extensive investigation. Local representatives of the FFWPU have offered to give their full cooperation. The FFWPU is asking media to report accurately, impartially and objectively about this very tragic incident.

In the practice of the peace initiatives of FFWPU and UPF, hatred and resentment are major obstacles, leading to destructive acts. Following this horrific incident, members of the Family Federation have pledged to do their utmost to help turn hatred into constructive cooperation.