#Japan #Tokyo #Muhammad Yunus #Hassan Wirajuda #Asia Dialogue

Upcoming Event: Next Generation Asian Peacebuilding Forum

On March 25, 2026, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, in collaboration with the Katakawa Association, will host the "Next Generation Asian Peacebuilding Forum" in Tokyo, Japan. This forum aims to foster a rich dialogue between young individuals and distinguished leaders from across Asia, including Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus and former Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda.

Event Overview

The forum is part of a broader two-day event titled "Harmony by Design: Asia Dialogue," which will take place on March 24-25. This overarching event includes various discussions among esteemed Asian leaders and experts, promoting a layered and multi-generational approach to peacebuilding that organically combines government-level discussions with grassroots dialogues.

On March 24, a closed meeting of the Asian Wise Men's Conference will be held under Chatham House rules, ensuring open and frank exchanges among participants. The following day, the forum will take place publicly, inviting leaders and experts to share insights with young members of the community, including students and young peace activists who are under 35 years old.

Objectives of the Forum

The primary goal of the "Next Generation Asian Peacebuilding Forum" is to create a platform where prominent leaders can engage directly with the next generation, allowing participants to discuss and develop a new vision of peace for Asia. The central session featuring a dialogue with the wise leaders will commence at 10:00 AM, where Yunus and Wirajuda will engage in conversations with a select group of young attendees (limited to 60 individuals). Together, they will explore the potential pathways for peace in an increasingly complex international landscape.

Agenda for the Day (March 25)

• - 9:00 - 9:45 AM: Introduction and Opening Remarks by Dr. Atsuto Kuranari, Chairman of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.
• - 9:45 - 10:00 AM: Break
• - 10:00 - 11:45 AM: "Dialogue with the Wise" session (open for media coverage)

Featured Speakers

Muhammad Yunus

A Nobel Peace Prize laureate known for his groundbreaking work in social entrepreneurship and microfinance through the Grameen Bank, Yunus has dedicated his life to reducing poverty and advocating for sustainable development. From 2024 to February 2026, he will serve as the Chief Advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh, continuing his pivotal role in the global discourse on peace and development.

Hassan Wirajuda

Former Indonesian Foreign Minister (2001-2009), Wirajuda has played a crucial role in promoting multilateralism and regional cooperation within ASEAN. He remains an influential figure in Southeast Asia’s peace and security discussions.

Event Details

• - Date: March 25, 2026 (Wednesday)
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 11:45 AM (Media Registration starts at 9:45 AM)
• - Location: Bellesalle Jimbocho Annex, 2-36-1 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0051, Japan
• - Organizers: Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Katakawa Association
• - Language: Japanese and English (with simultaneous interpretation)
• - Participants: Young staff engaged in peace activities, university and high school students aged 35 and under (Capacity: 60 participants)

Registration and Media Coverage

Media representatives are encouraged to apply for coverage of the "Dialogue with the Wise" session. The application deadline is at 5:00 PM on March 24, 2026. To register, please visit this link.

About Harmony by Design

The theme "Harmony by Design" reflects the wisdom cultivated through Asia’s long history of harmony. It emphasizes creating and fostering understanding between people, nations, and diverse cultures as the foundation for sustainable and inclusive peace. The Sasakawa Peace Foundation is committed to facilitating legitimate dialogue across generations to create impactful solutions.

Historical Context of Sasakawa Peace Foundation

Founded in 1986, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation has dedicated itself to cultivating peace, security, and talent development throughout the Asia-Pacific region for over half a century, playing a unique and pivotal role in peacebuilding initiatives across the region.