“Children in today’s world have very limited choices as to how to live due to emerging global issues such as climate change, armed conflicts, and food insecurity that loom over their future.” ~ Rev. Keishi Miyamoto

On 11th September 2023, Rev. Keishi Miyamoto, President, Arigatou International and Convener, Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC), was accompanied by Mr. Hironari Miyamoto, Secretary General, Myochikai, Dr. Mustafa Y. Ali, Secretary General, GNRC, and Ms. Eleonora Mura, Head of Partnerships and Organizational Development, Arigatou International, to the International Assembly for Peace, Religions and Cultures in Dialogue hosted by the Community of Sant’ Egidio in Berlin.

Discussing Children’s Rights, a Responsibility of Adults, Rev. Miyamoto shared his thoughts on the freedom of children. He expressed that creating an environment where every child enjoys their rights as stipulated in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, is the key to securing freedom of choice for children, leading to a better future for them.

Rev. Miyamoto shared about freedom as articulated by the Buddhist, Christian, and Muslim religions, stating,

“In Buddhism, freedom means relying on one’s own will, and the Japanese word for “freedom” carries the same meaning. The idea is that freedom is established by oneself based on the teachings of the Buddha… Christianity refers to freedom from sin, salvation through God’s grace, inner freedom, and freedom to love and serve others. Islam teaches that freedom can be achieved by following the will of God, observing Islamic laws, attaining inner freedom and spiritual liberation, and practicing justice and compassion for others.”

Rev. Miyamoto expressed his belief that it is the responsibility of people of all faiths to create an environment where every child can enjoy freedom, including the spiritual aspect. He shared with the audience that plans are underway to hold the GNRC Sixth Forum. 

For full speech by Rev Keishi Miyamoto, click here