HWPL Hosts International Peace Conference in Zagreb, Croatia

Former Croatian President, International Law Scholars, and Experts from Various Fields Participate… ‘International Law and Civic Engagement Are the Keys to Sustainable Peace’

 

 

On February 26, an international peace conference titled “From War to Peace: Our Responsibility for Sustainable Peace,” hosted by HWPL, was held at Libertas International University in Zagreb, Croatia. The event brought together former Croatian President Ivo Josipović, international law experts, university professors, civil society NGO representatives, and young students from all walks of life to discuss practical measures for preventing war and building peace.

The conference, which called upon the international community to take responsibility for achieving sustainable peace in an era still marked by ongoing wars and conflicts, carried particular significance as it was held in Croatia. This country bears the living memory of the Balkan Wars of the 1990s.

Conference moderator and former Croatian President Ivo Josipović addressed this point directly in his opening remarks: “We in this region know the value of peace from firsthand experience. I hope this gathering serves as an opportunity to raise greater awareness of peace — not only in our region, but across the international community.”

A representative from the City of Zagreb also delivered congratulatory remarks on behalf of the city, expressing support for the event and introducing the values of peace and cooperation that Zagreb upholds.

 

 

No Sustainable Peace Without International Law

The first major theme of the conference was the effectiveness of international law. Dr. Enver Hasani, Professor of International Law and International Relations at the Faculty of Law, University of Prishtina, argued in his presentation that the conflicts currently unfolding around the world stem from gaps in international law. “Strong international legal mechanisms and global cooperation are essential to preventing war and achieving sustainable peace. HWPL’s Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) reflects the fundamental principles of international law and contributes to the international community’s efforts to institutionalize peace.”

Professor Ivan Grdešić, Dean of the Faculty of International Relations and Diplomacy at Libertas International University, echoed this view, emphasizing that “international law is the essential framework that guides state behavior and promotes the peaceful resolution of disputes,” and stressing that the role of international law in maintaining the international order has never been more critical.

 

 

The second major theme was that religion, culture, and civil society constitute another vital pillar of peacebuilding. Professor Ankica Marinović, Scientific Advisor at the Institute for Social Research in Zagreb (IDIZ), stated: “World religions can serve as a powerful force for peace in the international community by promoting tolerance, dialogue, and solidarity.” Ms. Lejla Nuhanović, Political Officer at the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and a peace activist, presented on the case of Bosnia and Herzegovina, noting that while the Dayton Peace Agreement brought an end to the war, rebuilding trust and establishing inclusive political institutions remain ongoing challenges on the path to sustainable peace.

 

 

The conference also featured active participation from youth and citizens. Students from Libertas International University and other young attendees joined expert discussions to explore the role the next generation can play as active agents of peacebuilding.

A HWPL representative stated: “This event was a meaningful occasion where academics, legal experts, civil society, and youth came together to reaffirm our shared responsibility for peace. We will continue to work with partners around the world to advance the cause of sustainable peace.”