IASC World Changers for Peace – Assisi 2026

We wish to express our deepest gratitude to His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, for the gracious message sent on the occasion of the IASC World Changers for Peace symposium held in Assisi as part of the national Rome–Assisi Peace Initiative.

In his message, Cardinal Parolin wrote:

“I take note of the importance of the initiative, intended to offer a moment of interdisciplinary reflection inspired by the values of universal fraternity and human dignity, also in light of the Encyclical Magnifica Humanitas of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. For this reason, I will accompany it with my prayer.”

These words represented a profound encouragement for all participants and reaffirmed the importance of promoting dialogue, understanding, and shared responsibility in a world increasingly shaped by technological, cultural, and geopolitical transformations.

Held in the historic Sala della Conciliazione in Assisi, the symposium brought together representatives from theology, culture, diplomacy, technology, and civil society in a spirit deeply inspired by the legacy of Saint Francis and the principles expressed in Magnifica Humanitas.

The panel featured distinguished contributions from:

• H.E. Mons. Antonio Staglianò, President of the Pontifical Academy of Theology, who reflected on the role of theology, human dignity, and the centrality of the human person in fostering a culture of peace;
• Fr. Gianmaria Polidoro, OFM, whose Franciscan perspective reminded participants of the enduring relevance of fraternity, reconciliation, and spiritual dialogue;
• Sara Penco, researcher and founder of the ReArt initiative, who explored the relationship between art, cultural heritage, memory, and human dignity as instruments of peace and understanding;
• Luigi Ricci, who addressed the opportunities and responsibilities emerging from technological transformation, digital ethics, and the pursuit of peace in the contemporary world;
• Nabil Bougarech, who offered reflections on environmental stewardship, integral ecology, and the enduring relevance of the principles expressed in Laudato Si’ as foundations for peace and sustainable development.

The symposium was expertly moderated by journalist Massimo Lucidi, whose longstanding commitment to dialogue, international cooperation, and the promotion of a culture of peace helped guide a rich and constructive exchange among participants.

As we commemorate the 800th anniversary of the passing of Saint Francis of Assisi, we are reminded that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of fraternity, justice, dialogue, and shared responsibility.

On behalf of the Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation (IASC) and the World Changers community, we extend our sincere appreciation to Cardinal Parolin for accompanying this initiative with his prayer and spiritual closeness.

May the spirit of Assisi continue to inspire humanity to build bridges where others see barriers, to promote encounter over division, and to place human dignity at the center of our common future.

From Assisi to the Quantum Era: Rethinking Peace through Fraternity.