The Peace Forum in Switzerland served as a sort of referendum among Western nations, emphasizing the need to demonstrate their commitment to the strength of democracy, stated Czech President Petr Pavel, as reported by Radio Liberty.
The 28th International Conference Forum 2000 is currently taking place in Prague, with one of the main topics being Russia's war against Ukraine. According to a correspondent from Radio Liberty, participants include leading Czech politicians, Ukrainian lawmakers, and human rights defenders from around the world.
The second day of the forum featured a panel on "International Democratic Partnership," focusing on the impact of totalitarian countries on global democracies, particularly Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Czech President Petr Pavel participated in the panel and described the events in Ukraine as "horrific and unjust."
Pavel noted that the peace forum in Switzerland served as a "sort of referendum among Western countries: are we ready to support the strength of democracy?"
He emphasized that the continuation of Russia's war against Ukraine leads to increasing human rights violations, as it serves as inspiration for those who do not respect others.
"Even while we speak now, Ukraine suffers from targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure, including energy and heating systems. We all bear the responsibility to end this decline in international standards," said Pavel during his speech.
The Czech president also urged major world powers, particularly China, to use their influence to promote peace. Throughout the forum, discussions will address threats to democracies, artificial intelligence, and the influence of authoritarian regimes.
A significant portion of the conference will focus on the war between Russia and Ukraine, with Ukrainian lawmakers, human rights defenders, and journalists representing Kyiv.
The Forum 2000 was initiated by Czech President Václav Havel, Jewish writer and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Elie Wiesel, and Japanese businessman and philanthropist Ryoichi Sasakawa. The first conference took place in 1997.
