Women at the Center of Peacebuilding
Each March, the global community observes International Women's Day, established by the United Nations, recognizing the achievements of women and reaffirming the call for equality, dignity, and opportunity for all. For the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), this observance is more than a celebration—it is a reaffirmation of a founding principle: that women’s leadership is essential to building a peaceful and harmonious world.
UPF’s vision has been profoundly shaped by its co-founder, Hak Ja Han, who has consistently emphasized the transformative role of women in history and in shaping the future. She teaches, “In the new era we are about to enter, women will have the central role in leading humanity into love, forgiveness, harmony and cooperation.” Expanding on this vision, she has declared:
“In the twenty-first century, women should play a major role in world history by serving as one of the wheels of the tractor pulling forward the construction of a peaceful world together with the men. Going beyond the century of power and technology, women will be the central axis in building the century of love and the peace culture, and their role will be more important than ever before.”
These words affirm that the future must be shaped not by domination or division, but by compassion, partnership, and heart-centered leadership.
In 1992, Dr. Han and her husband, the late Sun Myung Moon, founded the Women's Federation for World Peace (WFWP). The organization was established to empower women to take active leadership in peacebuilding and to advance a women-centered movement for global peace. Since its founding, WFWP has worked internationally to elevate the voices and influence of women across cultures and nations.
Inspired by this vision, UPF collaborates with women leaders in faith communities, government, civil society, academia, and the arts. Through interfaith dialogue, humanitarian initiatives, educational programs, and the global Ambassadors for Peace network, UPF encourages women to step confidently into roles that foster reconciliation, mutual prosperity, and shared values.
International Women’s Day also reminds us of the persistent challenges women face worldwide, including inequality, violence, economic barriers, and limited access to education. UPF affirms that addressing these concerns is a shared responsibility. Empowering women strengthens families, stabilizes communities, and lays the groundwork for lasting peace.
As we honor women this March, UPF renews its commitment to advancing a culture in which men and women work together as equal partners. Guided by the inspiration of Dr. Hak Ja Han, the organization continues to champion a future where dignity is upheld, harmony is strengthened, and peace becomes a living reality for all.