A Global Movement Starts in Finland: The Peace Circle™ in Liperi

The world is facing major challenges, both environmental and social. Now, more than ever, we need to unite, show resilience, and take action to protect our planet. The Peace Circle™ combines caring for the environment with building peace. The first Peace Circle™ was recently launched in Liperi, Finland — an inspiring space that promotes local action and sparks global change. This park stands as a symbol, calling us to actively create a more peaceful and sustainable world, connecting local efforts to a broader, global movement.

A Park Like No Other

The design of the park is both unique and symbolic. At its core stands the Central Peace Tree, representing unity and resilience, surrounded by the Guardians of Peace, trees dedicated to peacebuilders and environmentalists. The park features three symbolic lines—Head, representing knowledge and wisdom; Heart, symbolizing compassion and love; and Hands, reflecting action and service. Each tree along these lines embodies one of these values, forming the ABC for Peace, designed to inspire reflection and meaningful action.

The Inauguration of the First Peace Circle™ in Finland

On 20 September 2024, we celebrated the inauguration of the first Peace Circle™ in Liperi. Seven ambassadors and local schoolchildren joined together to plant trees, marking the start of this global movement. The event was a powerful demonstration of how communities can act for both peace and environmental sustainability. This video captures the spirit of the event, showcasing how Peace Circles™ are designed not only as beautiful parks but as spaces where people can come together to make a difference.

A Global Initiative with Local Roots

While Liperi is home to the first Peace Circle™, this initiative is far from local. The Peace Circle™ is designed to spread worldwide, with the next inauguration scheduled to take place in Italy on 21 November 2024.

By establishing Peace Circles™ in urban spaces, we aim to create a global network of parks that foster biodiversity, community engagement, and peacebuilding. Each Peace Circle™ will act as a hub for learning, reflection, and action.

Why Peace and Nature Must Go Hand in Hand

Peace and environmental sustainability are interconnected, especially in today’s world. The Peace Circle™ initiative embraces this philosophy by

• Creating spaces where communities reconnect with nature

• Encouraging environmental stewardship through collective action

• Addressing climate change and social conflicts together

• Fostering a sense of responsibility toward the planet and future generations

Networking Through PeaceCircle.World

Each Peace Circle™ will not be isolated but a part of a global network. Through peacecircle.world, communities and cities can connect, share their progress, and collaborate with other Peace Circles™ around the world. This platform fosters knowledge sharing and community engagement, making each park part of a larger, unified movement.

How Cities Can Get Involved: Apply for the Peace Circle™ Pilot Program

We are now inviting cities to join this global movement by applying to the Peace Circle™ Pilot Program 2024-2025. This pilot program offers cities an opportunity to create their own Peace Circle™—a space that combines environmental action with peacebuilding, designed for urban settings. By participating, cities will become part of a worldwide network of parks committed to fostering sustainability and unity.

To apply or learn more about the pilot program, visit: www.pacfpeace.net/pcpilots.

Apply now and be part of the Peace Circle™ movement!