In these times of global challenges, it is more important than ever to unite and work for a better future. The initiative [“Wandern für den Frieden” e.V. “Walk for Peace”] (https://www.wandernfuerdenfrieden.org/) is calling for a special event: A sea of lights for tolerance, environmental protection and world peace – on April 21, 2025!

Together for a better future**
Under the slogan “Come with your friends and demand more tolerance, environmental protection and world peace with us!”, people of all ages and backgrounds are coming together to send a powerful message. The organizers are calling on Austrian politicians to make a greater commitment to environmental protection and to play a more active role in mediating peace between parties in conflict.

Participation in the event is free and organized on a voluntary basis. Registration is not necessary. All those who want to attend are invited to participate with flags and posters in favor of peace, tolerance and the protection of the environment. It is important to note that no national or partisan symbols, flags or slogans are allowed. The aim is to unite as a society and overcome divisions.

A sea of lights as a powerful symbol
A highlight of the event is the sea of lights. Participants are asked to bring their mobile phone or an electric light source to send a bright message to the world together. Simultaneously, seas of lights will be held in other locations. Those who cannot participate in person can place a candle in the window, or go out, with a candle in front of their door.
However, the commitment should not be limited to a single day. The organizers urge people to place a candle in the window every first Saturday of the month. This will serve as a constant reminder to politicians to focus more on tolerance, environmental protection and world peace.

The event focuses on compassion, both for people, animals and the planet. It reminds us that our own happiness is often a matter of chance. Any one of us could end up living in a war zone, or in a region affected by environmental disasters. This awareness-raising action seeks to strengthen empathy and a sense of responsibility.

PROGRAMME – 21. APRIL 2025
16:00 Peace March – Easter March

  • Meeting point: Schwedenplatz
  • Peace March/Easter March to Heldenplatz

17:00 Heldenplatz

  • Opening speech and moderation by Isabella Haschke of “Wandern für den Frieden e. V.”
  • Video message from former Federal President Heinz Fischer
  • Speech by former Caritas Director Helmut Schüller
  • Speech by political scientist Heinz Gärtner of the University of Vienna
  • Speech by the historian Verena Winiwarter for “Scientists for Future” with “The environment needs peace”
  • Message from the Dalai Lama
  • Speech by Anja Spengler for Bahá’í Austria
  • Message from Schlomo Hofmeister, Chief Rabbi, for the Israeli Religious Society in Austria (due to the coincidence with the Passover holiday, his personal participation or video message is not possible)
  • Speech by Ermin Sehic, first imam of the Islamic Religious Community of Vienna, for the Islamic Religious Community of Austria

For more information, visit [Peacewavefestival] https://www.peacewavefestival.org/