2025 HWPL Global Peace Leaders’ Conference LP Program Panel Talk: Four Stories of Peace-Building Success – ②

 

Join us as we discover four key accomplishments that define the 11th Anniversary of the September 18th HWPL World Peace Summit through an engaging panel session.

 

Hon. Andrés Guillermo Lama Pérez , Senator, The Senate of the Dominican Republic

 

 

Q1. We would like to know why you support the DPCW and HWPL peace initiatives.

A1. I support the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) and HWPL’s peace initiatives because they give us a practical and universal framework to replace conflict with dialogue and division with cooperation. As a senator, I am proud that the Dominican Republic has taken a concrete step — our Senate has passed a resolution supporting the DPCW, affirming that peace is not only a hope but also a duty of governance.

We are also advancing peace education, and with gratitude, we acknowledge that HWPL donated a Peace Monument to the Dominican Republic, which now stands as a permanent symbol of our nation’s commitment to peace. But this work does not stop here — we are committed to continuing our collaboration with HWPL, expanding peace education, strengthening dialogue, and ensuring that peace becomes a lasting part of our national life. Under the leadership of Chairman Lee, HWPL has created a global movement that inspires governments, civil society, and citizens to join together for the common good. This is why I believe the DPCW is not only important for my country, but also essential for the entire international community.

 

 

Q2. The Senate of the Dominican Republic passed a resolution supporting the DPCW for peace and is actively promoting other initiatives like peace education. Given all this, we would also like to know what roles you think different sectors of society should play in achieving peace.

A2. Peace requires all of society to act. Governments and parliaments must enact laws that strengthen human rights and support conflict prevention. Religious leaders and interfaith groups foster reconciliation and common purpose. Civil society and the media carry truth and peace-promoting narratives. Youth and women—often at the forefront of cultural change—must lead peace education and community dialogue. And international organizations offer the frameworks for multilateral cooperation.

In the Dominican Republic, we’ve already seen HWPL-led peace summits—like the recent DR–Haiti summit—that brought journalists and communities together to practice peace journalism and dialogue. This demonstrates how each sector plays a critical part in building lasting peace.