Universal Peace Federation International Welcomes Nomination of Dr Hak Ja Han for 2026 Nobel Peace Prize

Nomination Recognises Decades of Global Peacebuilding, Interfaith Dialogue, and Korean Peninsula Initiatives 

“Dr Hak Ja Han has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to peacebuilding rooted in dialogue, cooperation, and respect for human dignity.” 

“Her work has consistently brought together leaders and communities across ideological, religious, and political divides through a global network of Peace Ambassadors.” 

“The nomination recognises decades of contributions to international peacebuilding, humanitarian cooperation, and reconciliation efforts, particularly in relation to the Korean Peninsula.” 

Universal Peace Federation International, the organization announced that its co-founder, Dr Hak Ja Han, has been formally nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize by Dr Ján Figeľ, the former European Union Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief. According to a press release from the organisation, the nomination recognises Dr Han’s decades of commitment to international peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and humanitarian cooperation. 

The submission specifically highlights her leadership in reconciliation efforts on the Korean Peninsula, including the proposal for an international peace park within the Demilitarised Zone and the organisation of global “Rally of Hope” summits. Dr Figeľ noted that her work has consistently bridged ideological and religious divides by appointing thousands of Peace Ambassadors worldwide. The organisation further stated that the nomination reflects Dr Han’s lifelong investment in cultural diplomacy and institution-building through the Universal Peace Federation and the Women’s Federation for World Peace, creating practical platforms where the ideals of peace can be translated into global action. 

The media release said: 

Universal Peace Federation International (UPF International) today announced that Dr Hak Ja Han, co-founder of the Universal Peace Federation, has been formally nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize by Dr Ján Figeľ, former European Union Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief and president of FOREF Europe. 

The nomination recognises Dr Han’s decades-long contributions to international peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, humanitarian cooperation, and reconciliation efforts, particularly in relation to the Korean Peninsula. 

In his submission, Dr Figeľ highlighted several key initiatives: 

 Interfaith cooperation: Appointment of thousands of Peace Ambassadors worldwide to bridge religious and cultural divides 

  Korean Peninsula peace initiatives: Organisation of international “Rally of Hope” summits promoting peaceful reunification 

  Humanitarian recognition: Establishment of the Sunhak Peace Prize honouring global peace advocates 

 United Nations engagement: Collaboration of UPF and the Women’s Federation for World Peace through General Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) 

 38th Parallel Peace Initiative: Proposal to create an international peace park in the Korean Demilitarised Zone 

 Cultural diplomacy: Global outreach through the Little Angels Children’s Folk Ballet of Korea 

“Dr Hak Ja Han has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to peacebuilding rooted in dialogue, cooperation, and respect for human dignity,” said Dr Figeľ. “Her work has consistently brought together leaders and communities across ideological, religious, and political divides.” 

“Dr Hak Ja Han’s life work represents a remarkable and sustained investment in peace,” said Dr Tageldin Hamad, President of UPF International. “Through institution-building, global dialogue, humanitarian engagement, and cultural diplomacy, she has helped create platforms where cooperation can flourish and where the ideals of peace are translated into practical action.” 

Born in what is now North Korea and shaped by the experience of war and division, Dr Han has dedicated her life to promoting reconciliation and strengthening families and communities as foundations for lasting peace. She co-founded the Women’s Federation for World Peace in 1992 and the Universal Peace Federation in 2005, both of which have grown into global networks supporting peace initiatives. 

The nomination also comes amid reports regarding Dr Han’s current detention, which has raised concern among observers in the international community. According to public reporting, the matter has drawn attention among policymakers and diplomatic observers. 

Nobel Peace Prize nominations are confidential, and the Norwegian Nobel Committee receives hundreds of nominations each year. A nomination does not imply selection but reflects recognition of significant contributions to peace and international cooperation. 

Universal Peace Federation International is an international non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting peace through dialogue, education, and cooperative initiatives. UPF holds GENERAL consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and supports programmes in interfaith cooperation, sustainable development, and international collaboration.