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In this programme, the authors of the report of the research examining visions for 2050 related to peace and human rights present the results of the research such as what kind of society is thought to be achieved in 2050 and what is thought to be needed to realise such a future. We will then invite people who will play an important role in considering peace and human rights in the future to present their comments on the results of this research and to introduce the issues to be examined. Guest speakers from different backgrounds with an interest in peace and human rights will discuss the issues. In addition to typical topics related to peace, such as war, the discussion will include perspectives on science and technology, sexual orientation, school education and refugees, and this allows participants to discuss peace and human rights from multiple perspectives. The programme allows each participant to think about peace and human rights, discuss matters that need to be addressed in the future, and consider the actions that need to be taken in the future.

【Reflection】
This session provided an opportunity to explore what kind of social and ethical foundations are necessary to realise peace and human rights from multiple perspectives. Hajime Akiyama (University of Tsukuba), a moderator, began this session by introducing research findings that envision the year 2050, emphasising the need for a comprehensive understanding of peace that goes beyond merely “the absence of war.” While many people tend to think of peace in contrast to conflict, what is truly needed is an ethical sense that respects life and diversity, supported by social systems that embody those values. He also pointed out that the homogenising effects of social media have reduced opportunities to encounter differing values, stressing that “the courage to choose uncomfortable realities” is the first step toward overcoming division.

Sandra Haefelin, a columnist, drawing on her multicultural background, highlighted the ambiguity of the distinction between “Japanese” and “foreigner.” She argued that judging people by nationality or appearance narrows society’s scope and that, given Japan’s aging population and labor shortages, embracing diversity is the only sustainable path forward.

Moe Sasaki (Seisen University) spoke about her experiences in reconciliation activities in Rwanda, emphasising the importance of creating “spaces for dialogue” between people. Through dialogue, mutual understanding can deepen, allowing people to rebuild relationships beyond the labels of victim and perpetrator. She also stressed the necessity of skills such as nonviolent communication and trauma care, which should be nurtured through education and community activities.

Seiji Kumagai (Kyoto University) presented a Buddhist perspective on linking “inner peace” and “outer peace.” He explained that when individuals learn to control anger and desire while cultivating compassion and altruism, it ultimately leads to peace across society. He also noted the potential of carefully utilising advanced technologies such as AI to accelerate conflict resolution and mutual understanding.

Ryusei Ueno (Doctoral Program in International Public Policy, University of Tsukuba) emphasised the need to think of science, technology, and society in an integrated manner rather than as separate spheres. He questioned the educational structure that divides the humanities and sciences and argued that expanding shared understanding through interdisciplinary knowledge will be the key to building a dialogic society. In conclusion, all the speakers shared the importance of having the courage to cross boundaries, engage with others who hold different perspectives, and continue evolving together.


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
The future vision presented in this session was the creation of an inclusive society based on dialogue and co-creation. First, Akiyama stated that in the future, educational institutions and local communities will regularly provide opportunities for people with diverse backgrounds to meet and deepen mutual understanding through dialogue. To overcome social divisions caused by social media, training programs that intentionally expose participants to “uncomfortable opinions” will also be implemented as part of civic education.

Haefelin pointed out that as Japan faces population decline, foreign workers and immigrants will play an increasingly important role, and systems for promoting mutual understanding through education and media will be expanded. Multicultural coexistence will no longer be treated as a special topic but as a natural precondition of daily life.

Sasaki emphasised the importance of continuing to promote peace education programs in Northeast Asia aimed at cultivating citizens’ “capacity for dialogue.” To that end, training programs in nonviolent communication and trauma-informed care will be expanded, creating environments where younger generations can collaborate without fear of diversity.

Kumagai intends to link Buddhist concepts of “altruism” and “interdependence” with technology, advancing research that uses AI for visualizing the mind and analyzing conflicts. His approach seeks to construct systems that expand social peace through inner transformation—an effort to “change the world from within.”

Ueno shared a plans to promote cross-disciplinary research and strengthen transdisciplinary education. In particular, he emphasised the importance to establish frameworks for examining human rights and gender issues from the design phase of technological development, proposing a social model in which ethics and science coexist.

Overall, the speakers viewed peace and human rights not as static ideals but as practices that must be continually renewed. Toward 2050, people with diverse values are expected to engage in ongoing dialogue and collaboration to shape sustainable ethics and systems. The experience of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan is expected to serve as the first step toward that future.


*Part or all of this report was generated by AI.