New initiative invites Ambassadors for Peace and guests to explore UPF’s peace principles through education, reflection, and open dialogue.
As part of its 2026 activity plan, UPF Denmark has launched a new monthly lecture and dialogue series on UPF’s peace principles. The initiative aims to deepen Ambassadors for Peace's understanding of UPF’s vision and values for peacebuilding and to invite new participants – especially young people – to engage in meaningful dialogue about values, responsibility, and peace.
Dr. Thorkil Christensen volunteered to develop a short presentation for each session, and the last Monday evening of every month is now dedicated to this learning-and-dialogue program.
The first meeting was held on January 26 under the theme “The Path to Peace – What Characterizes a Peacemaker?” Despite a severe snowstorm outside, sixteen participants attended, including experienced Peace Ambassadors and several new guests.
In his presentation, Thorkil Christensen emphasized the importance of shared responsibility and cooperation in a world facing common global challenges. He pointed to the need for a paradigm shift in our values – from individualism toward interdependence and solidarity. Drawing inspiration from Søren Kierkegaard, , a Danish pastor, author, poet, philosopher, historian, teacher, politician, and one of the most influential people in Danish history, and UPF founder Rev. Sun Myung Moon, participants were invited to reflect on truth, conscience, and personal integrity as foundations of authentic leadership for peace.
The concept of satya – truth understood as harmony between words, actions, and intentions – was presented as an essential basis for trust and reconciliation. The central message was clear: peace is not only a political project; it begins in the human heart and grows through relationships, shared experiences, and a commitment to serve the greater good.
Following the presentation, UPF Denmark Secretary General Karsten Nielsen facilitated the small-group discussions, allowing participants to reflect on how the values of peace can be translated into practical action in everyday life. The conversations were lively and deeply engaging, continuing informally over refreshments.
The second session, held on February 23, drew 20 participants and focused on the theme “The Central Role of the Family for Peace.”
Early feedback suggests that the format of short presentations combined with open dialogue creates a meaningful space for people who are seeking deeper understanding, shared values, and engagement in the work for peace.
Initiatives like this reflect UPF’s global vision of building a culture of peace through dialogue, shared values, and cooperation across nations and generations.