March 29, 2025 10:47 Dr. Yen Platz
On Earth Day – Day of Happiness, the United Nations became a meaningful platform where voices for the environment and human well-being harmoniously converged. On this occasion, Mr. Peter Haider, President of Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Austria, shared profound insights into the strong connection between caring for the planet and the pursuit of happiness at the conference held at the United Nations Office in Vienna.
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Mr Peter Haider of Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Austria (Photo: UPF)

WAJ: President, could you please share with us the significance of this years international conference on Earth Day – Day of Happiness at the United Nations?

President Peter Haider (UPF) Austria: As NGO Committee on Peace we try to serve the vision of the UN which is also reflected in many UN days. The ideas behind Earth Day find their fulfilment in many of the SDGs. Dr. Weish spoke with great concern about the state of our planet. Prof. Mueckler gave an impressive analysis as social anthropologist and a human being which is naturally looking for happiness himself. It is such a fundamental topic and it was even unusual to be addressed in a UN setting such a refreshing experience.

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Mr. Peter Haider chairs the ``Earth Day – Day of Happiness`` Forum at the United Nations Office in Vienna, March 20, 2025 (Photo: WAJ)

WAJ: What impact do you hope this conference will have on the community and participating organizations in terms of environmental protection and enhancing the quality of life?

President Peter Haider (UPF) Austria: We are celebrating the beginning of spring, a moment of hope and new life. This gives an impetus to look at the natural environment, which guarantees our life, with a caring mindset.

WAJ: Given the growing urgency of environmental issues today, what are your thoughts on the connection between environmental protection and human happiness?

President Peter Haider (UPF) Austria: It is relevant to connect environmental protection and happiness. The wish to improve ones happiness is a natural aspiration of women and men. If environmental protection is perceived to be connected to more happiness even sacrifices are acceptable.

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The ``Earth Day – Day of Happiness`` Forum at the United Nations Office in Vienna, March 20, 2025. (Photo: WAJ)

The conference underlined a simple but powerful truth: the pursuit of happiness is inseparable from protecting the Earth. A sustainable and fulfilling future starts with mindful choices today — rooted in hope, compassion, and action.

WAJ: Thank you so much !

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WAJ

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WAJ

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