WFWP France - “Living together in Family and Society”

Paris Conference Highlights the Importance of Family Values for Peaceful Societies

On May 16, 2026, the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) and the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) organized a conference at Espace Barrault in Paris to celebrate the United Nations International Day of Families and the International Day of Living Together in Peace. Entitled “Living Together in Family and Society,” the event brought together a diverse audience and emphasized the vital role of family values in fostering peaceful, cohesive, and resilient societies.

Brigitte Wada, President of WFWP France, opened the conference by explaining the complementary significance of the two UN observances and their relevance to contemporary social challenges.

Three speakers then explored the theme from social, philosophical, and cultural perspectives.

Christine Jouan-Bruneau, President of Femmes de Demain, addressed the challenges facing families in France today, including weakened family bonds, increasing youth violence, and the difficulties encountered by single-parent households. She stressed the importance of strengthening marriage and restoring parental authority as foundations for social stability.

Dr. Laurent Ladouce examined the philosophical foundations of altruism and social harmony, drawing on the ideas of thinkers such as Ernest Renan, Auguste Comte, Frédéric Le Play, and Martin Buber. He emphasized the essential role of filial, sibling, conjugal, and parental love in human development and in creating healthy communities.

Patrick Mangala, a journalist, offered insights into African family culture, highlighting solidarity, education, and cultural identity as key pillars of social cohesion and community life across the continent.

The conference concluded with a lively exchange of ideas on intercultural family values and their contribution to peaceful coexistence. The event also featured the presentation of Peace Ambassador certificates to three participants in recognition of their commitment to promoting peace and understanding within society.