UN Assembly of Peoples: opening day “Imagine all people living together in peace” - October 9, 2025, Perugia

Thursday, October 9, marked the opening of the 8th UN Assembly of the Peoples, a gathering of global civil society committed to promoting all human rights for all and building a more just and peaceful world, free from war and oppression, poverty, and human and environmental exploitation. An exercise in global citizenship and democratic participation, from the city to the UN.

The first session was opened by a speech from the Young Peace Builders, a group of 60 young people who have been engaged for over a year in a program of advanced training, research, and action to build a culture of peace through concrete projects.

During this important meeting, there was a significant convergence of voices and perspectives, bringing together leading figures from different sectors of society.

Among the internationally renowned speakers was Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, who offered an overview of global humanitarian challenges.

Local institutions were strongly represented, with the presence of key figures such as Vittoria Ferdinandi, Mayor of Perugia, and other Umbrian administrators. The Church's point of view was expressed by Monsignor Ivan Maffeis, Archbishop of Perugia.

The contribution of the academic world was significant, with the participation of important university figures, including Prof. Valerio De Cesaris, Rector of the University for Foreigners of Perugia, and Prof. Marco Mascia, President of the “Antonio Papisca” University Center for Human Rights at the University of Padua, who shared a practical vision of how universities can actively contribute to the promotion of peace and human rights. Their presence underscored the importance of the educational and research role of academic institutions in addressing contemporary global challenges.

Civil society played a key role, with contributions from figures such as Paola Palazzoli of the Anti-Violence Women's Network and Father Renato Kizito Sesana, a missionary with extensive experience in Africa.

Ultimately, the media sector was represented by Beppe Giulietti, founder of Articolo 21, who highlighted the crucial role of journalism in promoting peace and human rights.

This first day of the UN Assembly of the Peoples demonstrated the strength and importance of multidisciplinary and intergenerational dialogue, laying the foundations for constructive discussion and concrete actions aimed at promoting peace, human rights, and global justice.