The statement has been submitted under Agenda Item 7, which is dedicated to addressing the human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories.
In this urgent appeal, Initiatives of Change International and The Next Century Foundation call for a renewed, inclusive and principled approach to peacebuilding, one rooted in human dignity and accountability. The statement outlines 14 essential considerations for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with emphasis on achieving a sustained ceasefire, protecting human rights and ensuring equal security and opportunity for all people in the region.
This submission reaffirms Initiatives of Change’s commitment to long-term trustbuilding and nonviolent transformation of conflict.
We believe peace is possible and that civil society, in concert with governments and institutions, must play a vital role in shaping it.
Caux Initiatives of Change joins the global Peace Parks Initiative
Caux Democracy Forum 2025
02/06/2025
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Caux Democracy Forum 2025
The Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation is pleased to announce its participation in the Peace Parks Initiative , a global network coordinated by the International Institute for Peace Through Tourism (IIPT). This initiative aims to foster peace and environmental stewardship by recognizing meaningful places around the world as spaces for reflection, dialogue, and connection.
As a recognized Peace Park, the Caux Palace will become part of a network that includes over 450 locations worldwide, such as Bethany Beyond the Jordan, Victoria Falls, and Pietermaritzburg.
These spaces serve as symbolic and practical sites for cultivating peace, celebrating cultural and historical heritage, and encouraging responsible tourism and sustainability.
What this means for the Caux Palace
By joining the Peace Parks network, the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation affirms its long-standing commitment to:
Promoting peace and global understanding
Encouraging environmental awareness and sustainable development
Creating space for inclusive dialogue and trustbuilding across communities and cultures
The participation at the Peace Park Initiative will be marked by the installation of a co-branded plaque, featuring a peace-themed quote, to be unveiled at the Caux Democracy Forum in July 2025.
The Caux Peace Park will be inaugurated at the Caux Democracy Forum Opening Ceremony on 8 July 2025 in the presence of Olivier Gfeller, mayor or Montreux, Andreas Larentzakis, from the International Institute for Peace through Tourism, and Jacqueline Coté, president of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation)
A partnership for a more inclusive and peaceful world
The evolving partnership with IIPT aligns with Caux Initiatives of Change’s core mission: to bring people together across cultures and sectors, foster trust, and inspire action for a more inclusive and peaceful world. We are excited to explore the potential of the Peace Parks initiative as a meaningful way to reflect and reinforce our identity as a space for peacebuilding, reflection, connection, dialogue, and unity.
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MODERATION & INTRODUCTION: Exploring the Caux Forum 2025 - Methods and Mindset
Ignacio PACKER (UK/Spain/Switzerland), Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
Jean-Marc VIGNOLI (France), violinist
WELCOME WORDS
Jacqueline COTÉ (Canada/Switzerland), President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
REIMAGINING DEMOCRACY(IES) - Youth Perspectives
Hajar BICHRI (Morocco), Creative Leadership, from our parallel youth democracy programme "Reimagining Democracy(ies), introducing a short film presenting their fresh perspectives and hope.
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
ADDRESSby Council of Europe Representative
Ambassador Francesca Camilleri VETTIGER (Malta), Chair of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies, Malta's Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Philippe LAZZARINI (Switzerland), UNRWA Commissioner-General
A TIME TO REFLECT
Joseph DEISS (Switzerland), Swiss Economist and Politician, former President of the Swiss Confederation and former President of the United Nations General Assembly
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
EXPLORING PERSONAL CHANGE & WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CAUX FORUM 2025
Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
15:45 - 16:15
Dining Room (2nd floor)
Refreshments
16:15 - 17:45
Parallel Sessions: Integrity - Trust - Courage
Participants choose one of the three sessions at the front desk when arriving at the Caux Palace (colour cards)
SESSION 1: REVITALIZING DEMOCRACY - INTEGRITY
Help us explore together the role of integrity as a democratic value. Bring your experience to the table and share your stories as we un pack the complex and timely question regarding the importance of integrity in revitalising democracy.
We would love to hear from you! Join the conversation and explore with us the pathways towards (re)building trust to strengthen and revitalise democracy.
18:30: Vernissages & Invitation to visit the three Caux Palace Expos
WITH:
Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes - Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change
Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA / Gado (Kenya), Graphic journalist, independent editorial cartoonist, animator, and TV producer
EXPO 1: "Dialogues on Humanity"
An exhibition produced thanks to a partnership betweenPhoto Elysée - Lausanne, theSwiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and the International Committee of the Red Cross.
A powerful art exhibit that brings to life the emotional and generational impact of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands—seen and expressed through the eyes of young Pacific Islanders. A a collaboration between the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, and the Marshallese Educational Initiative (MEI).
Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.
Marina LITVINENKO (Russia), Public Speaker and Justice Campaigner
DR Drissa KANAMBAYE (Mali), Mission Manager in the Communication and Public Relations Unit at the Office of the Prime Minister of Mali
Lee JU-YOUNG (South Korea), Lawyer, Former Minister and Parliamentarian, President of MRA/IofC Korea
Co-Moderators:
Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
Daniel CLEMENTS (UK), Creative Leadership initiative for young leaders
10:45 - 11:15
Dining Room (2nd floor)
Coffee & Tea Break
11:15 - 12:15
Community Rooms
Community Groups
Community Groups are a core part of the Caux Democracy Forum experience, helping to build a sense of unity and shared purpose—“Let’s do this together!”
Meeting three times during the Caux Democracy Forum (9–11 July, 11:15–12:15), these small, diverse groups of around 15 participants offer a space to reflect on the plenary themes, exchange ideas, and learn from one another’s lived experiences.
Guided by a community group facilitator, each session creates a safe, respectful environment where deep conversations can flourish and real connections begin.
With ground rules rooted in trust, inclusion, and care, these groups invite you to be fully present, listen openly, and speak from the heart—if and when you feel ready and are often a great place to forge new and inspiring friendships.
12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch
13:30 - 14:30
Free Time
14:30 - 16:00
Welcome to our Thematic Tracks, Common Cause Groups...and more!
Heinrich PICK (Germany), Managing Director Elfgenpick & board member IofC Germany, and his experience with democracy dialogues in the city of Augsburg/Germany.
Co-Moderators:
Christoph SPRENG (Switzerland), IofC International’s representative to the Council of Europe
Dr Laurie JOHNSTON (USA), Professor of Theology, Emmanuel College, Boston/USA
Creative Voices, Democratic Choices : How the Arts and Culture strengthen Democracy – “Dialogues on Humanity”
Room: The Galleries (4th floor)
Language spoken: English
Interpretation: no interpretation offered
Organisers :
Yvan LOEHLE (Switzerland), Head of Protection, Humanitarian Competence Centre, Swiss Development Cooperation
Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes for Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
What happens with U.S.? (with: Allan-Charles Chipman, IofC USA)
Room: Main Hall
Language spoken: English
Interpretation: French, English
Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)
Room: Villa Maria (closed group)
Young Changemakers Programme
Room: Restaurant français
Caux Round Table Japan
Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
Language spoken: English & Japanese
Interpretation: no interpretation offered
A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International (on invitation only)
Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
Language spoken: English
18:30 - 19:30
Dining Room
Evening Meal
20:00 - 21:30
Rooms to be confirmed
Caux Candlelight Conversations
Step into the heart of the Caux Democracy Forum with our signature Candlelight Conversations—an inspiring evening experience designed to spark deep, authentic dialogue.
Set in softly lit rooms at the Caux Palace, these sessions create a serene and reflective atmosphere for meaningful exchanges. Participants select a discussion group based on a topic that resonates with them, each guided by an experienced conversation lead and supported by a facilitator to ensure a smooth and enriching experience.
With intentionally small group sizes and a focus on trust-building, the Caux Candlelight Conversations offer a unique opportunity to go beyond the surface, share perspectives, and be part of conversations that truly matter.
22:00 - 22:30
Chapel
Songs for Peace, Unity & Reconciliation Songs (Taizé Songs)
Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School
07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection
Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.
COMMON CAUSE GROUP: CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST - PERSPECTIVES FROM FRANCE
Room: Main Hall
Language spoken: French & English
Interpretation: English, French
SESSION 1: Restoring Mutual Understanding and Recognition as a Prerequisite for Trust
At the heart of Initiatives of Change’s philosophy is the belief that healing begins with acknowledging the inner motives, emotions, and prejudices of all those affected by conflict. To overcome division, the traumas and feelings of fear, insecurity, racism, injustice, betrayal, hatred, powerlessness, despair, and manipulated identities must first be heard and understood.
With:
Radjaa ABOUDAGGA, Geostrategic Advisor
Janine ELKOUBY, Professor of classical literature and former vice-president of the Jewish Consistory of the Bas-Rhin
Pierre HASKI, Journalist (pre-recorded speech)
Yoav LEVY, Teacher of biblical studies and specialised in Hebrew texts
and others
Moderator:
Brahim HAMMOUCHE (France), Head of the Psychiatry Department, Metz-Thionville Hospital, former Member of Parliament Moselle/France
Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)
Room: Villa Maria (closed group)
Young Changemakers Programme
Room: Restaurant français
Caux Round Table Japan
Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
Language spoken: English & Japanese
Interpretation: no interpretation offered
A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International (on invitation only)
Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
Language spoken: English
16:00 - 17:00
Terrace
Coffee & Tea Break
17:00 - 18:30
THEMATIC TRACK 1
From Wounds to Bridges: Overcoming Enmity and Reclaiming Connection
Room: Main Hall
Language spoken: English
Interpretation: English / French
With:
Oleksandra MATVIICHUK (Ukraine), Human Rights Defender working on issues in Ukraine and the OSCE region and heading the human rights organisation Center for Civil Liberties, which was awarded the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize (video address)
Co-Moderators:
Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
Fabrice DALONGEVILLE (France), Independent Consultant & Mayor of Auger-Saint-Vincent, on his experience on civic engagement & good governance in France
Christoph SPRENG (Switzerland), IofC International’s representative to the Council of Europe, with experiences at the Council of Europe and International Labour Organisation.
Moderator:
Dr Laurie JOHNSTON (USA), Professor of Theology, Emmanuel College, Boston/USA
Creative Voices, Democratic Choices : How the Arts and Culture strengthen Democracy – “Democracy? What Democracy?”
Room: The Galleries (4th floor next to entrance hall)
Language spoken: English
Interpretation: no interpretation offered
Organisers :
Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA (GADO) (Kenya), Cartoonist & Artist
Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes for Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School
07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection
Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.
07:30 - 08:30
Dining Room
Breakfast
09:00 - 10:45
Main Hall
Personal Stories & Conversations: Courage
Language spoken: English
Interpretation: English, French, Korean & AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)
With:
Farai MAGUWU (Zimbabwe), Executive Director, Centre for Natural Resource Governance
Natalia ARNO (Russia), Founder & President of Free Russia Foundation
Yukihisa Fujita (Japan), Former Vice-Minister of Finance and former member of Upper and Lower Houses of the Japanese Diet (Parliament)
Co-Moderators:
John Bond (Australia/UK), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
Sawsan RASLAN (Syria), Creative Leadership
10:45 - 11:15
Dining Room
Coffee & Tea Break
11:15 - 12:15
Community Rooms
Community Groups
12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch
13:30 - 14:30
Free Time
14:30 - 16:00
THEMATIC TRACK 1
Where the Past Still Bleeds: A Workshop on Memory, Healing, and Reconciliation
Room: The Galleries (4th floor next to entrance hall)
COMMON CAUSE GROUP: CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST - PERSPECTIVES FROM FRANCE
SESSION 2: Religions, both Instruments of Conflict and Potential Sources of Peace
Room: Main Hall
Language spoken: French & English
Interpretation: French, English
In this region, where the three major monotheistic religions originated, spirituality can be both exploited for political ends and harnessed as a powerful force for healing and reconciliation. This round table will explore how religious traditions contribute to conflict, but also how they can serve as bridges to peace and understanding.
With:
Hervé Élie BOKOBZA, Theologian & Writer
Ghaleb BENCHEIKH, Islamologist & President of the Foundation of Islam in France
Claire REGGIO, Teacher & Trainer, Aix-Marseille University & Domuni Universitas
Antoine ARJAKOVSKY, Director of Research, Collège des Bernardins, Paris
and others
Moderator:
Brahim HAMMOUCHE (France), Head of the Psychiatry Department, Metz-Thionville Hospital, former Member of Parliament Moselle/France
Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)
Room: Villa Maria (closed group)
Young Changemakers Programme
Room: Restaurant français
Armenian-Turkish-Kurdish Dialogue
Room: 315
Caux Round Table Japan
Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
Language spoken: English & Japanese
Interpretation: no interpretation offered
A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International (on invitation only)
Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
Language spoken: English
16:00 - 17:00
Terrace
Coffee & Tea Break
17:00 - 18:30
THEMATIC TRACK 1 / COMMON CAUSE GROUP: CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST - PERSPECTIVES FROM FRANCE
SESSION 3: Building International Awareness of the Middle East Conflicts
Room: Main Hall
Language spoken: English, FRench
Interpretation: English, French
This session will focus on the role of civil society and European nations in fostering a shared global consciousness around these conflicts. It will explore how to rehumanise international relations, galvanise social energy, and give real substance to human rights and solidarity.
With:
Rafaël TYSZBLAT (France), Mediator & Trainer in Interconvictional and Interidentity Dialogue at Connecting Actions
Bertrand BADIE (France) (pre-recorded speech), Political Scientist & Expert in International Relations
Alain MICHEL (Switzerland), Co-founder & President of ÉquiLibre, Founder of Hommes de Parole
DR. Peter SHAMBROOK (UK), Independant Scholar, Author & Historical Consultant at the Balfour Project
Elio AZAR (Lebanon), Special Initiatives Coordinator, Principles for Peace
and others.
Moderator:
Brahim HAMMOUCHE (France), Head of the Psychiatry Department, Metz-Thionville Hospital, former Member of Parliament Moselle/France
Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School
07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection
Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.
Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change
Sarah NOBLE, Head of Global Engagement, Caux Initiatives of Change
12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch
from 12:15 onwards -
Departures
Andrew Stallybrass (Council)
Andrew Stallybrass, together with his wife Eliane, has been involved in the work of Initiatives of Change for many years and in many capacities, including conference organisation, work weeks, communications. Andrew was one of the co-authors of 75 Years of Stories, published in 2021 to mark the Foundation’s 75th anniversary, previously led Caux Editions and is a member of the "For A New World" team, publishing stories and documents linked to the history of Initiatives of Change.
Gordon Robinson is a self-employed International Marketing Advisor with a distinguished 36-year career at The Timken Company, where he held senior leadership roles, including Managing Director and later Chairman of a publicly traded company in India. A Mechanical Engineer by training, Gordon’s early career included roles in Sales, Marketing, Advertising, and PR, followed by two decades in general management with global responsibilities.
Gilbert Monnard has followed a diverse career path combining technical expertise, interpersonal skills and numerous humanitarian missions in Africa and Haiti with Médecins Sans Frontières and Swiss Cooperation. With a master's degree in water and the environment, he has also worked as an engineer and project manager in drinking water supply in Valais. Versatility, his desire to ‘be part of the world’ and his commitment to causes he believes in are the guiding principles of his career.
International Day of Concience 2025: True Peace and Security Begin Within
By Ignacio Packer, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change
15/04/2025
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By Ignacio Packer, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change
On 4 April 2025, the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation hosted a remarkable event at the Palais des Nations in Geneva: the International Day of Conscience 2025. Co-organised by Sofia Stril-Rever (BeTheLove), Pascale Fressoz (AI-ODD), and the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, the event brought together over 250 participants and more than 45 speakers, including representatives of the UN, UNESCO, Permanent Missions, governments, Geneva, civil society, spiritual leaders, and visionary youth. Together, they shared powerful messages of conscience, love, and peace—at a time when the world is urgently searching for meaning and hope.
Ignacio Packer, Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, delivered the following inspiring opening address:
Ignacio Packer speaking at the Palais des Nations on 4 April 2025
The Importance of Conscience and a Strong Moral Compass in Today's World
The new US administration has accelerated the use of an assertive hard power strategy to foreign policy. This shift in American policy has raised significant concerns across Europe, prompting nations to prioritize rearmament and respond to escalating trade tensions.
On 4 March, the European Commission introduced the ReArm Europe Plan, a €800 billion initiative to bolster EU defense expenditures over four years.
Shortly after, on 14 March, Germany's conservative Chancellor-in-waiting, Friedrich Merz, secured backing to amend the nation’s constitutional debt limits, enabling a historic €1 trillion investment in defense and infrastructure.
Despite these developments, European leaders and the public appear unprepared for the new geopolitical landscape. How much of the policy discourse is driven by emotional reactions rather than long-term strategic planning? Are we not being led by decisions that lack a coherent vision for a peaceful future?
We are witnessing a shift not only toward military rearmament but also economic warfare, where sanctions, resource control, and strategic alliances serve as instruments of power. This competition for dominance risks deepening global divisions and conflicts.
...an urgent need for a moral and ethical compass.
Yet, what is often overlooked in discussions of military and economic strength is the urgent need for a moral and ethical compass. How are we equipping ourselves with the values and skills essential for lasting peace? While nations focus on strengthening their armed forces and economic leverage, true stability depends on the principles that guide their leaders and citizens.
The organisation I have the privilege of working for, Caux Initiatives of Change, is committed to the belief that personal transformation is key to global change. Ethical leadership, trust, reconciliation, and peacebuilding must be rooted in a conscious commitment to truth and justice—principles that shape both domestic policies and international relations.
A sustainable future requires individuals to cultivate responsibility, honesty, and compassion—qualities that foster trust within communities and between nations. Without a firm dedication to these principles, military power and economic strength alone cannot guarantee peace; rather, they risk fueling further division and conflict.
History has shown that societies thrive not only through strategic defense but through the moral character of their people. Leaders who act with integrity inspire confidence, and nations that prioritize ethical conduct earn global respect. Alongside military preparedness and economic warfare, there must be an equally determined effort to revive core values such as mutual respect, dialogue, and a genuine pursuit of the common good.
True security is not merely about defending borders. It is about upholding the moral and ethical principles that sustain unity, justice, and peace through conscious and deliberate action.
Ethical leadership, trust, reconciliation, and peacebuilding must be rooted in a conscious commitment to truth and justice.
With Sofia Stril-Rever, co-convenor of the IDC 2025, and in conversation with young leaders Maruee Pahuja (India) and Saïd Touhami (Morocco/Netherlands)
Marking the International Day of Conscience
As we mark the International Day of Conscience, let this be a moment of reflection - a call to examine the values that shape our decisions and the kind of future we are building. This day reminds us that true peace and security begin within, rooted in integrity, responsibility, and a shared commitment to the common good.
And let this be just the beginning. Caux Initiatives of Change is part of a global people’s movement dedicated to trust building, reconciliation, and peacebuilding. We believe that personal transformation and a strong moral and spiritual compass is essential in navigating today’s challenges.
I invite you to take part in this journey by joining one of our upcoming events at the beautiful and inspiring Caux Palace near Montreux. This May, our Caux Arts and Peace Encounters will explore how we can foster peace through the power of arts and dialogue, while this summer, the Caux Forums for Democracy and Inner Development offer a space for changemakers to learn, reflect, and take meaningful action to address our world’s pressing challenges.
Change begins with the courage to listen to our conscience—let’s take that step together.
Personal transformation and a strong moral and spiritual compass is essential in navigating today’s challenges. (...) Let this be just the beginning!
At the closing of the International Day of Conscience 2025 with young French artist Jean-Baptiste Demars.
What is the International Day of Conscience?
The International Day of Conscience (IDC25) on 5 Aprilhas been established in 2019 by the General Assembly of the United Nations to invite all human beings to focus their minds every year on how to build « a culture of peace with love and conscience ». With this resolution (A/RES/73/329), the General Assembly emphasized the urgent necessity of a mindset shift to address the global challenges facing the human family, including issues such as poverty and hunger which kills a child’s life every eleven seconds. This radical shift of mindset is highlighted by the reference to love enshrined for the first time in a UN resolution.
Furthermore, despite ongoing international tensions, in September 2024 all UN Member States signed up a Pact for the Future, to set themselves "on a path towards a brighter future for all of humanity". They pledged "a new beginning in multilateralism" based on the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
They reaffirmed their "enduring commitment to the 2030 Agenda" adopted in 2015, whose 17 SDGs have been jeopardized by the implementation gap that followed. Governments unanimously renewed their commitment to Leave No One Behind and established this guiding principle for all components of civil society. Indeed, no government acting on its own can achieve the 2030 Agenda. Its success depends on each and everyone of us.
IGNACIO PACKER is Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, a Swiss private charitable foundation with the mission to provide a safe and privileged space to inspire, equip and connect individuals, groups and organizations from around the globe to engage effectively and innovatively in the promotion of trust, ethical leadership, sustainable living and human security. Ignacio has over 30 years of experience in humanitarian work and development issues. He is an expert on human rights and social issues and has been strongly engaged in global advocacy on protection frameworks for migrants and refugees with a particular focus on children and youth.
On 4 April, 2025, in honour of the International Day of Conscience, a unique and moving conversation unfolded at the Palais des Nations in Geneva between three voices from different parts of the world...
"Inner Development for Outer Change" – A Heartfelt Dialogue at the International Day of Conscience
15/04/2025
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On 4 April, 2025, in honour of the International Day of Conscience, a unique and moving conversation unfolded at the Palais des Nations in Geneva between three voices from different parts of the world, united by a shared belief: lasting change in the world begins with transformation within.
Ignacio Packer (Executive Director, Caux Initiatives of Change), Saïd Touhami (LoveForce Ambassador and peace educator, Morocco/Netherlands), and Maruee Pahuja (Creative Leadership initiative of young leaders and LoveForce Ambassador, India) came together not to deliver speeches, but to hold space—for reflection, vulnerability, and deep listening.
This wasn’t your typical panel. Instead of statements and solutions, the conversation offered a quiet, reflective space—an intentional pause from the busy programme—where the audience was invited to slow down and tune into the inner dimensions of change-making.
Ignacio Packer speaking at the International Day of Conscience 2025
A Conversation Rooted in Conscience
Ignacio Packer opened the space with a simple yet powerful question: "We often speak of changing the world, but how often do we reflect on the inner transformations needed to truly create that change?"
He spoke honestly about his personal struggles with staying present, and how long-distance running became his form of meditation in motion—a practice that taught him awareness, resilience, and clarity. “Leadership,” he said, “is a bit like running: it’s about putting one foot in front of the other, even when it’s hard, and staying connected to why we began.”
For Ignacio, being present, building inner clarity, and fostering emotional resilience are non-negotiable qualities for leaders seeking sustainable impact.
The Ocean in a Drop
Maruee Pahuja (India) brought in the perspective of the arts, creativity, and the collective journey of self-discovery. Quoting Rumi—“You are not a drop in the ocean, you are the ocean in a drop”—she reflected on her personal journey of picking up pastel colours one day in 2014, which unexpectedly opened the door to a deeper, playful, and healing connection with herself.
Since then, her path has led her to facilitate over 400 arts-based workshops globally, including initiatives in well-being, leadership, and peacebuilding. Maruee’s vision is clear: “There are as many ways to love as there are hearts. Inner development is personal—but when shared, it becomes a powerful collective force.” She invited the audience to imagine a world where expressive arts are not an extracurricular luxury but a gateway to empathy, healing, and conscious action.
Dialogue, Education, and Peace
Drawing from his background in international public policy and peace education, Saïd Touhami (Netherlands) brought in the essential role of dialogue and education. He asked: “What if schools didn’t just teach knowledge, but also inner development—empathy, deep listening, and emotional resilience?”
Having helped create the “School of Peace” in the Netherlands, inspired by Shaykh Khaled Bentounes' vision of a Culture of Peace, Saïd emphasized that true education must nourish the heart as much as the mind.
From left to right: Maruee Pahuja, Saïd Touhami, Ignacio Packer
From Fear to Love: Leading with Conscience
One of the most resonant moments came when Ignacio posed a powerful question: “Am I leading from fear, or from love?”
This question, he explained, continues to shape his choices as a leader. Fear often drives us to control, to rush, to judge. But when we shift to leading from love—through compassion, curiosity, and presence—we build trust, connection, and transformation.
The dialogue didn’t offer quick fixes. Instead, it asked questions—soulful, sincere ones—inviting the audience to reflect.
To conclude, Maruee closed with a poetic reflection: “Great ideas, it is said, come into the world as gently as doves. Perhaps if we listen carefully, amid the uproar of nations, we might hear the flutter of wings—the gentle stirring of life and hope.”
Right: Maruee Pahuja, Ignacio Packer and Sarah Noble. / Centre: Saïd Touhami / Right: Maruee Pahuja
A Seed Planted on the International Day of Conscience
Held as part of the Caux Initiatives of Change’s ongoing commitment to ethical leadership and inner transformation, this conversation was intended to plant seeds—of reflection, of community, and of quiet courage: Begin within. Be still. Then act.
Maruee is also a member of the advisory committee of the Caux Arts and Peace Encounters event at the Caux Palace (12 – 14 May 2025) where she will be delivering a workshop on "Exploring Boundaries and Peace through Expressive Arts". You can be part of this conversation, deep-diving into the connection between the arts and peace! Discover the event and register here!
IGNACIO PACKER is Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, a Swiss private charitable foundation with the mission to provide a safe and privileged space to inspire, equip and connect individuals, groups and organizations from around the globe to engage effectively and innovatively in the promotion of trust, ethical leadership, sustainable living and human security. Ignacio has over 30 years of experience in humanitarian work and development issues. He is an expert on human rights and social issues and has been strongly engaged in global advocacy on protection frameworks for migrants and refugees with a particular focus on children and youth.
MARUEE PAHUJA is an Expressive Arts Consultant, Process Facilitator, Visual Artist, and Eye-Care Practitioner dedicated to bridging science and the arts to foster healing, leadership, and peace. A core team member of Creative Leadership and consultant with the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, she designs and facilitates arts-based interventions for personal and collective transformation. With over 300 workshops held globally and collaborations with 25+ nonprofits, Maruee brings creativity and compassion to peacebuilding, wellbeing, and leadership. She has spoken at platforms like Geneva Peace Week and the Caux Democracy Forum. A prolific artist with over 5,000 multimedia works, she continues to explore the power of artistic expression to inspire change and resilience across cultures.
With a background in International Public Policy, SAID TOUHAMI is a dialogue-moderator, peace-educator, and chairman of the House of Peace based in the Netherlands where he also contributed to the creation of the public Elementary School of Peace, inspired by Shaykh Khaled Bentounes’ initiative for the Education for a Culture of Peace.
For #IDC2025, we were proud to collaborate with BeTheLove, the Alliance Internationale des Objectifs du Développement Durable (AIODD), and many others, including the support of the City of Geneva and the Permanent Missions of Bahrain, France, Morocco & the Marshall Islands in Geneva.
Photos: Ines Mokdadi, Antonin Lechat, U. Ott Chanu
On 4 April 2025, the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation hosted a remarkable event at the Palais des Nations in Geneva: the International Day of Conscience. Co-organised by Sofia Stril-Rever (BeTheL...
