Peace begins with you

I strive for world peace and a good life for all living beings. I meet this aspiration with humility and take responsibility for my daily thoughts and actions — peace begins with me. I believe in the possibility of a better world — and contribute a small part to it every day.

I recognise that my own inner peace strengthens the chances for peace with others. I am therefore willing to critically examine my own prejudices, fears and conflicts in order to build bridges instead of walls. I inform myself about peace, justice and sustainability and share knowledge with others.

Every human being has an inviolable dignity and deserves respect for their very personal path through life. It is important to consciously recognise one's own prejudices and to actively work to overcome discrimination. Even when we do not agree with someone's actions, we should acknowledge that every person tries to shape their life as best they can. I therefore meet my fellow human beings with empathy and consciously perceive their perspectives in order to act with kindness and genuine understanding. With compassion I open myself to the experience of others, share their joy and their suffering, and offer help where it is needed. I listen without prejudice and choose my words to connect rather than divide. I actively support education and exchange between cultures in order to deepen mutual understanding and compassion in the world.

I stand up for the observance of universal human rights, freedom and democracy worldwide. I stand in solidarity with people who live under dictatorship, are politically oppressed and want to overcome this through legitimate means. Actions that violate human rights and international law are never justifiable, no matter who commits them. To ensure justice, comprehensive criminal prosecution, accountability and reparation are needed, as well as full support for those affected.

I work for a fair distribution of resources and equality of opportunity, and within my means I act against poverty and injustice. I want to promote sustainable prosperity for all and stand against exploitation, in favour of integrity and fairness in economic relations.

I recognise the Earth as a living home for all and act to protect it. Together with my fellow human beings I work to address global challenges. I acknowledge that an intact planet and respectful treatment of all life are essential for peace and the wellbeing of humanity.

I fundamentally reject violence in interpersonal and societal life, whether physical or psychological, verbal or emotional. I work to make non-violent methods of conflict resolution, non-violent resistance and civil defence better known and practised in civil society. I support peaceful conflict-resolution mechanisms and institutions that promote peace and justice.

My right to immediate, proportionate self-defence of my person, my family and my surroundings does not contradict the substance of this agreement, but is part of my inalienable human rights. I work for the outlawing of wars of aggression and for every government that wages a war of aggression to be held accountable before an international court.

In light of the previous articles, I also regard the World Peace Agreement as a pact of mutual support: when I notice that someone is suffering or is being subjected to violence, I do not look away but offer my support. I am aware that even if I could not act in an acute moment, it is never too late to stand by those affected and to take action afterwards. I also encourage other people to act supportively, so that those affected by violence and misfortune, by loneliness and helplessness, are not left alone. I do this in the certainty that, by doing so, I am already making a small contribution to peace and a better world.

I recognise that peace is an ongoing process that requires constant care, vigilance and truth. Even in times of doubt I will hold fast to the vision of a peaceful world. I want to strive, to the best of my knowledge and conscience, to be a role model of peaceful and respectful behaviour. I want to inspire others to commit to peace. My aim is to help shape a world in which freedom, security and justice are made possible for all. I pass this vision on as hope to coming generations, so that all life can grow in dignity.