This year, the 39th Niwano Peace Prize will be awarded to Father Michael Lapsley, Society of the Sacred Mission, of South Africa in recognition of his relentless struggle against apartheid and social discrimination, his support for the liberation movement in South Africa and various peace-building activities in other parts of the world.
Lapsley’s nonviolent, multifaith peace-building efforts and activities of healing based on the restorative justice approach, dialogue and reconciliation continue to contribute to the healing of South Africans, as well as many others all over the world. He has contributed immensely to the cause of peace and interreligious cooperation, which is in congruence with the mission of the Niwano Peace Prize.