Thirteen Year Old Returns From N. Korea with Prospects of Peace
The young, 13-year old citizen diplomat, Jonathan Lee, from Mississippi has returned to the United States after a trip to North Korea and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to propose a children's forest in that area where South and North Korean children can interact and play together. Based on the "sunshine policy" from former South Korean President Kim Dae-jung, the proposed forest will be constructed in the DMZ and foster interaction between children from the North to South.
The symbolism of the DMZ is quite astounding when thought of in terms of citizen diplomacy. This 2 1/2 mile area is the most heavily guarded border in the world. It blocks citizens from the North and South from coming together to create a unified Korea (which both sides desire) and continues the need for military protection because the lack of communication perpetuates the already prevalent animosity between the two. The act of citizen diplomacy committed by Jonathan provides reason to break down the barriers held up by governments to allow citizens to implement policies of good relations.
Jonathan was able to meet with officials from the North but never got to meet with the President, Kim Jong Il but a letter written by Jonathan was delivered to the President, detailing his desires to see the children's forest and calling on both governments to come together to build it. Jonathan plans to visit the North again next year to follow up on the idea of the forest. The story truly shows how citizens can go beyond governments to bring about peace and understanding.
Posted Monday, August 23, 2010