A Nobel Call for Peace: Dr. Hak Ja Han’s Global Legacy
The nomination of Dr. Hak Ja Han for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize by Ján Figeľ has drawn significant international attention. Figeľ, a former Slovak Cabinet minister, European Commissioner, and the first European Union Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, is recognized as one of Europe’s leading advocates for human rights and religious liberty. His support gives special weight to this nomination.
The nomination recognizes Dr. Han’s decades of global leadership in peacebuilding, interfaith cooperation, and humanitarian outreach. As co-founder of the Universal Peace Federation with her late husband, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, she has inspired an international network of Ambassadors for Peace that includes current and former heads of state, parliamentarians, clergy, educators, and civic leaders. Through global summits, peace forums, and educational initiatives, she has advanced dialogue and cooperation across national, religious, and cultural boundaries.
Dr. Han has also been a consistent advocate for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. While political leaders have struggled to resolve tensions, she has continued to promote reconciliation, mutual understanding, and long-term peace in Northeast Asia.
Her nomination comes at a time when supporters have expressed concern regarding her current legal situation in South Korea, where many believe she has faced unjust treatment. It also comes amid broader concerns over religious freedom in Japan following legal actions against the Family Federation, developments that many observers see as raising serious questions about the protection of faith communities in democratic societies.
Honoring Dr. Han with the Nobel Peace Prize would recognize not only her lifelong contributions to peace, but also the importance of defending freedom of religion and belief worldwide.
Adapted from an article by Massimo Introvigne, Italian sociologist of religions, founder of CESNUR, and former OSCE representative for combating intolerance and discrimination against religious communities.