24 September 2026: The three-day 17th World Peace Forum concluded in Lumbini with the unanimous adoption of the Lumbini World Peace Declaration–2026, calling on governments and international organizations to strengthen efforts to end ongoing conflicts and promote global peace and harmony.

Held under the theme “Reimagining Peace in the 21st Century,” the forum was the first World Peace Forum hosted in South Asia. Bringing together participants from diverse countries and cultures at the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the summit focused on shared approaches to peace and human cooperation. The declaration was formally issued by Vicki Hansen, President of the Schengen Peace Foundation, and Basu Gautam, Founder and President of the Lumbini World Peace Forum.

Urgent Call for Peace and Dialogue

The declaration expressed concern over rising geopolitical tensions, the threat of nuclear proliferation and growing global polarization. It urged governments, policymakers and international institutions to prioritize dialogue, inclusive diplomacy and multilateral cooperation in addressing international disputes and preventing further conflict.

Key Priorities of the Lumbini Declaration

The declaration presents a broad framework for advancing sustainable peace, including:

• Education for Peace: Integrating peace education, empathy, global citizenship and critical thinking into school and higher education to promote a culture of non-violence.
• Climate Justice: Strengthening global action to address environmental degradation and climate-related risks that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities and can intensify resource conflicts.
• Ethical Technology: Promoting responsible governance and ethical use of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence to protect human rights and security.
• Inclusive Diplomacy: Expanding the participation of local communities, women, youth and marginalized groups in peacebuilding and decision-making processes.
• Redirecting Resources for Peace: Encouraging the redirection of resources spent on arms races and conflict toward poverty alleviation, scientific research, healthcare and the promotion of global peace.

Organizers said that holding the forum in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, underscored the enduring relevance of his teachings on compassion, non-violence and peaceful coexistence in addressing the challenges of the 21st century.