From October 2nd to 5th, I had the honor of attending One Young World 2023 in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

One Young World is a gathering where young people under 32 years old from different countries come together. The summit hosts various sessions like presentations, discussions, and workshops, which are all focusing on urgent global issues. These programs offer essential knowledge and insights for problem-solving. When participants return home, they become OYW Ambassadors, working on diverse projects and initiatives to make society better based on what they’ve learned.

Before joining the event, I wondered, “How can we create a peaceful society where everyone feels safe?” Peace was a big topic in the summit. There were many presentations and workshops related to this topic, allowing me to engage in lively discussions and gain valuable insights.

One workshop, in particular, discussed “Effectively Countering Violent Extremism” and gave us insights into my question. I sat with Irish and British individuals from Northern Ireland during this session. They’ve dealt with conflicts rooted in religious differences and highlighted how ignorance and prejudice fuel conflicts. They emphasized the importance of finding common ground through interaction to solve these issues. We all agreed that creating spaces by our own initiative for these exchanges is crucial.

The world today grapples with conflicts based on ethnicity, religion, and territory. Resolving these conflicts means finding common ground and nurturing friendships. Places like One Young World offer chances for people worldwide to connect and exchange ideas. I strongly believe that creating a space where everyone can engage in such exchanges will achieve a peaceful society. As an OYW Ambassador, I aim to create these exchange opportunities not just within Kanazawa University but also in various local community settings, striving for a brighter future.