NEW YORK, April 3 (BUSINESS WIRE): Universal Peace Federation International (UPF International) today announced that Hak Ja Han, co-founder of the Universal Peace Federation, has been formally nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize by Ján Figeľ, former European Union Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief and president of FOREF Europe.
The nomination recognizes 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, Figeľ highlighted several key initiatives:
-Interfaith cooperation: Appointment of thousands of Peace Ambassadors worldwide to bridge religious and cultural divides.
-Korean Peninsula peace initiatives: Organization of international “Rally of Hope” summits promoting peaceful reunification.
-Humanitarian recognition: Establishment of the Sunhak Peace Prize honoring 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 Demilitarized Zone.
-Cultural diplomacy: Global outreach through the Little Angels Children’s Folk Ballet of Korea.
“Hak Ja Han has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to peacebuilding rooted in dialogue, cooperation, and respect for human dignity,” said Figeľ. “Her work has consistently brought together leaders and communities across ideological, religious, and political divides.”
“Hak Ja Han’s life work represents a remarkable and sustained investment in peace,” said 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, 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 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.
About Universal Peace Federation International
The Universal Peace Federation International is an international nonprofit organisation dedicated to promoting peace through dialogue, education, and cooperative initiatives.
UPF holds a general consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and supports programs in interfaith cooperation, sustainable development, and international collaboration.
