Malaysian Villagers Receive Free Health Screening
Kampung Pos Raya, Malaysia - About 100 people from one of Malaysia’s aboriginal tribes received a free health screening organized by UPF-Malaysia on Nov. 23, 2013, in the Simpang Pulai area of Ipoh, the capital of Perak state.
UPF Chapters Observe UN International Day for Tolerance
UPF chapters in Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia and Russia organized educational programs in a variety of settings related to the UN International Day for Tolerance, Nov. 16.
A Tribute to Nelson Mandela
As the news of the passing of Nelson Mandela flashed around the world at cyber speed, tributes began to pour forth from world leaders and statesmen, pontiffs and clergymen, and citizens of every nation. He was a man who put his life on the line for justice in his early years, suffered a third of his life in prison and later forgave his tormentors at his liberation from prison for the good of the people and as a example to heal a broken nation.
Ambassadors for Peace Network Launched in New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand - The first monthly Ambassador for Peace meeting was held Nov. 24 at the UPF headquarters in Parnell. All those who participated would surely agree that this semi-formal UPF meeting was well worth the effort and certainly not one to be missed. The evening was well attended not only by Ambassadors for Peace but also included some newcomers. How wonderful it was to experience the lively and cordial atmosphere despite many of the guests being strangers to each other at the outset!
European Leadership Conference in London Addresses Human Rights
London, UK - "Human Rights: Are Democratic Nations Upholding a Better Standard?" was the theme of a European Leadership Conference Nov. 21-22 in the Houses of Parliament in London. Muslim, Jewish and Christian speakers addressed issues of religious inclusion in Europe, and activists described challenges faced by immigrants and refugees in Europe.
Jerusalem Interfaith Forum: Parity and Equality in the Family and Society
Arugot, Israel - Religious leaders, scholars, peace and social activists gathered on Oct. 21, 2013 at Achva College for a forum on “Parity and Equality in the Family and Society.”
Celebration in Slovakia of 17 Centuries of Religious Freedom
Bratislava, Slovakia - UPF-Slovakia organized a commemoration on Nov. 27, 2013 of the announcement of religious freedom in the Roman Empire in the year 303.
Training in Suriname for a Domestic Violence Hotline
Paramaribo, Suriname - Ambassadors for Peace participated in a training program on Nov. 30 about helping men with an impulse for domestic violence. Eleven people attended the five-hour training offered by Dr. Iwoma Smoktunowiscz, a psychiatrist from the Netherlands.
Educators Gather in Bangkok to Discuss Good Governance and Peace
Bangkok, Thailand - Educators from seven Asian nations participated in a conference in Bangkok Nov. 23-27 on "New Paradigms for Education and Good Governance for World Peace." A member of a Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines voiced appreciation for the opportunity to "upgrade" her understanding about the importance of the family and gain insights into the importance of good governance for peacebuilding.
Interreligious Rally in Taipei Supports Traditional Marriage and Family
Taipei, Taiwan - An estimated 300,000 people gathered on Nov. 30 in downtown Taipei in support of traditional marriage and family. Based on decades of interfaith dialogue, UPF-Taiwan was part of the Interreligious Coalition for Cherishing the Family and encouraged Buddhist, Taoist, Confucianist and Muslim leaders to participate.
Religious Youth Service Project in Pokhara, Nepal
Pokhara, Nepal - A Religious Youth Service project in Pokhara Nov. 24-30, 2013, included community-based volunteer work, educational presentations, interfaith and community visits, interactive programs and cross-cultural learning experiences.
Conference on Social Epidemics and Effective Responses Held in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Russia - An international conference on "Social Epidemics: Policies and Effective Responses" Nov. 21-22 examined both positive and negative aspects of current trends in social media, lifestyle and civil society engagement in global affairs. Speakers proposed ways that the social environment, volunteer associations, religious organizations and the media can help promote a healthy society.
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