Section II, “A Vision for Peace”

In the first panel, Dr. Thomas Ward, the organizer of Section II, focused on the role played by Reverend Moon both in challenging the ideological foundations of Marxism and in fostering positive ties with former Soviet republics and Pyongyang following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Investigative reporter Bill Gertz documented the role of The Washington Times in the continuing the critique of left wing ideologies. He pointed out that Soviet publications such as Pravda repeatedly attacked him and The Washington Times, confirming the effectiveness of the Times’ work. Dr. Walter Fasslabend shared his personal life experience of the tragedy of the Iron Curtain separating Eastern and Western Europe. He also proposed ways that Northeast Asia might benefit from the European experience. In the second panel, Dr. Emmanuel Dupuy provided a regional perspective on the changing dynamic of strategic relations amongst Western Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He noted that Europe was facing a dramatic population deficit across the continent, while populations could rise dramatically in the Middle East and in Africa in the coming decades, a situation that poses challenges but has every potential to be a positive one if handled correctly. Prof. Choi Choonheum in his comments expressed interest in the dynamic of international and political relations affected by the expanding role of China on the international scene.

In the third panel, Dr. Rima Salah addressed the impact of violence on families and communities. She noted that in peace and conflict studies, more attention is needed on the role of child development and the family in building a disposition for fostering peace. Mrs. Hennicot-Schoepges also called for a comprehensive approach to peace that recognizes the central role of the affective dimension. Commentator Dr. Walter Feichtinger spoke on the need for more appreciation for the role that women can play in conflict transformation and the need for inclusion of a community perspective in advancing peace.

In the closing section, Prof. Joseph Dunne pointed out the benefits of the adversary justice system in protecting human rights and enhancing human security. Prof. William Lay compared past U.S. government practice of non-interference in economic affairs with present non-interference in changing in moral views. Prof. Cole Durham documented the pivotal role of religious liberty in serving as the foundation for all other forms of freedom.