Peace Road 2024 in Ethiopia

Written by UPF-Africa

Tuesday, August 15,2024

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia― The Peace Road 2024 event in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, took place on August 4th, 2024, following a slight rescheduling from the originally planned date of August 3rd. The event aimed to explore critical topics on Conflict Resolution, peacebuilding, and the role of Abel-Type UN in promoting peace globally, especially in Korea.

Event Details:

The event was divided into two key sessions:

Session 1: Conflict Resolution and Peace

Professor Wendwesson Fikire, a faculty member at Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) in Maryland, USA, and a doctoral candidate at HYO JEONG International Graduate School for Peace and Public Leadership, led the session. Prof. Fikire holds two master’s degrees in Geochemistry and Divinity, with a focus on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. His lecture addressed the roots of global conflicts, emphasizing that many conflicts stem from religious or selfish interests. Prof. Fikire explained that true peace requires understanding these roots and working toward reconciliation on a global scale.

Using the biblical story of Cain and Abel, Prof. Fikire presented a framework for understanding conflict: Cain (conflict) must submit to Abel (peace) for true reconciliation to occur. He applied this concept to modern-day Korea, explaining that North Korea represents the Cain side, while South Korea embodies the Abel side. He emphasized that for peace to prevail, North Korea must submit to South Korea with a sincere heart, trusting that South Korea will lead it toward God. He also highlighted the parallels between this concept and the conflict within individuals, where the mind (Abel) and body (Cain) must be united to achieve inner peace.

Session 2: Peace and Reconciliation in Korea

The second session included a Q&A session led by Simon Amare, where participants engaged in discussions on practical steps for promoting peace in conflict zones, particularly in Korea. Participants explored the role of individuals and nations in supporting the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. It was noted that Ethiopia has a special historical connection with Korea, having participated in the Korean War for the sake of freedom and democracy. The attendees affirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering support for the peaceful reunification of North and South Korea.

The event was attended by 12 Ambassadors for Peace, who contributed to the discussion and reflected on the role of peacebuilding in Ethiopia and globally. Participants were encouraged to internalize the event’s theme, "Peace Starts with Me", acknowledging that peace begins with personal reconciliation before it can spread to others.

Conclusion:

The Peace Road 2024 event in Ethiopia was a resounding success, highlighting the critical need for conflict resolution, personal responsibility in peacebuilding, and the broader role of nations in promoting global unity. The participants left with a deeper understanding of the role individuals and nations can play in fostering peace, with a particular focus on Korea’s path to reunification.

Ethiopia’s historical connection to the Korean Peninsula was also reaffirmed, with participants expressing Ethiopia’s strong support for the reunification of North and South Korea. The event concluded with a shared commitment to spreading the message of peace and unity across Ethiopia and the world.