International Non-governmental Organization PEACE. (abbreviated as ingo PEACE., headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) held a Forum in Japan from November 17 to 21, 2025, welcoming a delegation of religious leaders from the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
This visit by the Myanmar delegation was realized at the invitation of ingo PEACE, and made possible through the understanding and cooperation of the relevant authorities, with the aim of promoting peaceful democratization through interfaith dialogue. The delegation was led by Dr. U Wunna, Chairman of the Myanmar Interfaith Dialogue Organization (MIDO), and Chairman Myo Aung of the Nay Pyi Taw Council Region Interfaith Dialogue Organization.
Forum Discussions and Key Themes
The forum focused on democratization and the recovery of culture and the economy in Myanmar, and was attended by religious leaders, representatives of Japanese private enterprises, and other participants holding diverse positions regarding the upcoming elections aimed at advancing democratization.
Discussions covered a wide range of topics, including the strengthening of Japan–Myanmar humanitarian cooperation, challenges and strategies for achieving democratic elections, and the role of interfaith collaboration in advancing the peace process.
During the dialogue, participants reaffirmed the shared recognition that “the path to national reconstruction lies not in armed conflict or confrontation, but in a democratic process advanced through the understanding of the people.”
Rather than framing the issue as a conflict of right and wrong, participants emphasized the importance of listening attentively to the sincere voices of the people and engaging in initiatives that accompany their aspirations.
On-the-Ground Dialogue and Ongoing Efforts
Behind these discussions and shared understandings lies the ongoing humanitarian and dialogue-based work that ingo PEACE has carried out in Myanmar to date. Guided by the universal value of “human dignity,” ingo PEACE has persistently advanced humanitarian support throughout Myanmar by transcending religious and ethnic boundaries and fostering solidarity among civil organizations through dialogue.
In August 2025, the organization independently hosted Myanmar’s first-ever human rights seminar, the “Myanmar Human Rights Seminar 2025 (Universal Values of Humanity Seminar),” in Yangon. Its activities have included donations of hygiene and daily necessities to correctional facilities, peaceful advocacy for the gradual release of political prisoners, support for human rights legal pro bono work, and joint peace projects with religious organizations—facilitating the return of approximately 90,000 displaced citizens to their hometowns.
Striving to build “a society where all lives can live in peace and security,” ingo PEACE has consistently engaged in direct, on-the-ground efforts to support those in the most vulnerable positions.
The continuation of these efforts forms the foundation for realizing the democratic process grounded in human dignity that was reaffirmed during this forum.
The People’s Voices and the Path Toward Democratization
Furthermore, participants shared a common understanding that discussions on democratization should not be dictated by external evaluations or political polarization, but must begin with sincerely looking at the realities and listening to the voices of people who live in their own country, unarmed and choosing not to flee abroad.
Amid the many narratives and information sources disseminated from differing perspectives, participants emphasized the need to discern “for whom and toward whom these messages are truly being delivered.” They reached the conclusion that entering local communities, engaging in dialogue, and listening directly to the voices of people standing before us today is the most essential approach for democratization. Even if such efforts and prayers progress step by step, the participants agreed that starting from the voices of citizens living in the country, focusing on those who are truly suffering today, and taking steps to make a difference where possible—this steadfast approach is precisely the path that leads to the realization of sustainable democratization.
A Pledge of Solidarity — From Dialogue to Action
In conclusion, both the Myanmar religious delegation and ingo PEACE. expressed their gratitude for the meaningful dialogue achieved toward interfaith cooperation and national recovery, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to standing together in support of peaceful democratization. The two sides deepened their understanding and consensus on the importance of democratic processes founded upon human dignity, pledging to continue their cooperative partnership toward that goal.
Based on the diverse perspectives and opinions shared during this forum, a representative delegation will compile and submit a formal petition to the Myanmar Interim Government, reflecting the outcomes of the discussions.
● Myanmar Interfaith Dialogue Organization (Headquarters: Republic of the Union of Myanmar)
The Myanmar Interfaith Dialogue Organization (MIDO) is a non-governmental organization that promotes understanding and peaceful coexistence among religions in Myanmar. In a nation where Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and other faiths coexist, MIDO fosters mutual understanding through dialogue, cooperation, and education, guided by the principle of “From Interfaith Harmony Towards Peace.” Through joint projects such as tree planting, medical assistance, and cultural exchange, MIDO aims to create social solidarity and inclusive development beyond religious boundaries.
