“History is filled with tragic examples of wars that result from diplomatic impasse. Whether in our local communities or in international relations, the skillful use of our communicative capacities to negotiate and resolve differences is the first evidence of human wisdom.”

Japanese Buddhist leader, author, educator and nuclear disarmament advocate

Daisaku Ikeda was a Japanese Buddhist leader, author, educator, and advocate for nuclear disarmament. He served as the third president of Soka Gakkai and later as its honorary president. He was associated with one of Japan’s largest new religious movements, Soka Gakkai, and became a public figure through leadership, writing, and educational work. His public role also included speaking for nuclear disarmament, alongside his long involvement in the organization.