At 34 years old, the Women's Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) reflects on how it has come a long way since its inception, working on four pillars on women’s leadership, peace building, climate action, and development and humanitarian aid. And yet, there is still so much to do. Its global programs have reached an estimated 552,000 people—77,188 women, 62,576 youth, and 412,106 children— across 128 countries. It counts on some 192 Global Women Peace Ambassadors so far in the last five years.

To commemorate its 34th anniversary, WFWP held a global virtual celebration, bringing together leaders, members, partners, and friends from around the world on April 11, 2026. Held under the theme “Legacy to Launch,” the event served as both a reflection on over three decades of dedicated service and a forward-looking call to strengthen impact, leadership, and global collaboration. The online celebration was moderated by WFWP Korea youth leader Hong Ju Lee.

WFWPI President Moriko Hori thanked all members and partners while offering a clear and forward-looking message. She emphasized that while WFWPI’s contributions over the past 34 years have been significant, the organization must now move toward impact-driven work, focusing on measurable outcomes, clear objectives, and tangible societal change. Introducing the concept of leadership ecosystem, she highlighted the importance of creating environments within families, communities, and institutions where women’s leadership can fully develop and thrive.

Vice President for Administration and UN Relations Offices Director Merly Barlaan expressed appreciation to the co-founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, for her visionary leadership and dedication that established WFWP as a global movement for women’s empowerment and peacebuilding. Barlaan said that the renewal of WFWPI’s General Consultative Status with the United Nations in 2026 reaffirmed the organization’s continued contribution to global advocacy and policy dialogue. In perspective, Barlaan outlined five key priorities - strengthening UN advocacy, developing leadership capacity, promoting membership growth, expanding education programs, and ensuring financial sustainability.

An Interactive Session was led by WFWP Secretary General Dr. Paris Moon, which brought participants into a more personal and reflective space within the celebration. She encouraged leaders and members to reflect on how the legacy of the past 34 years can be translated into concrete, measurable impact in today’s rapidly changing world through the live poll. The session created a dynamic and participatory atmosphere in which global perspectives met personal commitment, reinforcing the idea that WFWPI’s strength lies in its collective engagement. Dr. Moon emphasized that the future of the organization depends not only on institutional direction but on the intentional actions of each member.

A central highlight of the celebration was the Service Awards Ceremony, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated long-standing dedication to WFWPI’s mission. Awards were presented across multiple categories, honoring 10, 20, 25, and 30 years of service. Each segment was accompanied by a commemorative video, reflecting the journeys, contributions, and impact of volunteers from around the world. The ceremony provided a powerful reminder that the organization’s strength lies in the dedication of its people.

The program also featured a special Intergenerational Moment, highlighting the importance of continuity between generations. Newly appointed youth Board Members, Dr. Giyeon Mutewa and Yu Nakayama, shared reflections on leadership, responsibility, and vision for the future. They emphasized that leadership today requires courage, sincerity, and a willingness to serve, calling on the next generation to actively shape the future of peacebuilding. A deeply moving In Memoriam Tribute was held to honor leaders and members who passed away over the past year.

The 34th anniversary stands not only as a milestone but as a transition – from legacy to action, from reflection to impact.

WFWPI at 34: Advancing Women’s Leadership and Peace in 128 Countries, and Going Strong