Bridging Cultures, Building Peace: Reflections from the APJPWN Regional Gathering

A Fruitful Meeting: Reflections on the Asia Pacific Justice and Peace Worker Network (APJPWN) Regional Gathering

The Asia Pacific Justice and Peace Worker Network (APJPWN) held a meaningful regional gathering from July 23 to July 31, 2024, at the International Youth Training Center (IYTC) in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This event brought together 31 participants from across Asia Pacific, including representatives from Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Laos, the Philippines, Thailand, and Myanmar. The group included priests, students, activists, and laypeople, all united in commitment to justice and peace.

Orientation and Key Insights

The gathering began with participants settling into IYTC on the first day. The next day featured an orientation session, followed by an insightful talk by Mr. Jacques-Chai Chomthongdi, Southeast Asia Director at PlantWorks. He spoke about the ecological crisis and the right to food, emphasizing the link between food security, climate change, and sustainable practices. His presentation set the tone for deep discussions throughout the event.

Photo with Mr. Jacques-Chai Chomthongdi

Learning from Communities

Participants had the opportunity to visit local communities and learn from their experiences:

Baan Doi Chang Karen Community (Lampoon Province): The group explored the community’s forest protection initiatives, including firebreak preparations and wildfire management. Although I could not attend, those who did shared inspiring accounts of advanced monitoring systems and traditional conservation practices. The community has effectively combined their indigenous knowledge with modern tools to ensure sustainable forest preservation. Their proactive fire prevention strategies, including controlled burns and community-based patrols, demonstrated the importance of local engagement in environmental stewardship. Witnessing their dedication to protecting their land reinforced the need for grassroots efforts in tackling climate challenges.

Khun Tae Karen Community (Chom Thong District): Village leaders shared their wisdom on environmental protection and cultural values, showing how traditions play a key role in sustainable living. The Karen people have long practiced conservation through their customary laws, ensuring the responsible use of natural resources. Their deep respect for nature is woven into their daily lives, as they believe that taking care of the land is a sacred duty. Participants engaged in dialogues with the elders and youth, learning how the community is passing down these principles to future generations. The discussions highlighted the importance of intergenerational learning in preserving environmental heritage.

Lucia tried to analyze the land 😂

Baan Pa Mon Karen Community: Participants learned about the "Rice Merit Movement," where rice is seen as both a staple food and a sacred symbol. The community shared its agricultural rituals and spiritual beliefs, emphasizing their deep respect for nature and tradition. Rice cultivation is not just about farming; it is an expression of gratitude and harmony with the land. The villagers described their unique rituals, such as the rice blessing ceremonies, which reinforce their connection to nature. This visit deepened our understanding of how cultural identity and food security are interlinked, inspiring us to reflect on the ways in which we consume and appreciate food.

Cultural Exchange and Future Actions

The last few days of the gathering focused on:

Sharing experiences from field visits
Focus group discussions on human rights, justice, and peace
Visits to Mae Klan Waterfall and a drug rehabilitation center
A vibrant cultural night featuring traditional dances from different countries

Cultural night always memorable

What a beautiful scenery

Personal Reflections

This nine-day experience was truly transformative. Engaging with people from different backgrounds allowed for meaningful cultural exchanges and new perspectives. The communities we visited showcased a beautiful balance between preserving traditions and embracing modern advancements. Their ability to integrate technology with ancestral knowledge was inspiring.

The event was meticulously organized, ensuring an enriching and well-rounded experience for all participants. The lessons learned and connections made will continue to shape our understanding of justice, peace, and environmental responsibility.

Lucia with indigenous people in chiang mai

Group discussion

Lucia's Presentation

A Lasting Impact

The APJPWN regional gathering was a resounding success. It strengthened our commitment to justice and peace, deepened our appreciation for cultural diversity, and provided valuable insights into sustainable living.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have participated in this program. Conversations with fellow participants enriched my understanding of different cultures, languages, and values. The communities in Chiang Mai showed how tradition and modernity can coexist harmoniously. The organizers delivered a well-planned and engaging program, making this experience truly fulfilling.” — Lucia, Indonesia