Our story
The World Centers of Compassion for Children International (WCCCI) was founded by Betty Williams, Nobel Peace Laureate and tireless advocate for children’s rights, as a response to the profound suffering of children affected by war, violence, and poverty.
The Beginning:
The seed for WCCCI was planted in 1976 when Betty Williams was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in fostering peace in Northern Ireland. Deeply moved by the plight of children caught in conflict, she dedicated her life to advocating for their protection and well-being. This commitment culminated in the founding of WCCI, designed as a global initiative to provide safe spaces and promote a culture of compassion and peace.
Key Milestones:
- Organisation of the First World Summit of Mothers of the Earth for World Peace
The WCCCI together with the Municipality and the Province of Piacenza, the Emilia Romagna Region and The Gorbachev Foundation, organised the first World Summit of Mothers of the Earth for World Peace. This event was an international meeting that brought together women and leaders from all over the world to discuss themes related to the defence of peace, the environment, social justice, sustainability and the crucial role of women in protecting the planet.
https://www.radioradicale.it/sch…
- The Iraq mission
In 2002, the WCCCI led a mission to Iraq to prevent the outbreak of war, bringing global attention to the devastating impact of armed conflict on children. The organisation also worked to lift the embargo on oncology medicines and provided 15 tonnes of aid to the Baghdad Children’s Hospital, ensuring access to life-saving treatments for children. - Participating in and organising the Children’s Session in the Celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Perestroika
The WCCCI participated in and helped organise the 20th Anniversary Perestroika Celebration Children’s Session that took place at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC.
https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs… - Collaboration with the Frank Adoption Centre
The World Centre of Compassion for Children International (WCCCI) collaborated with the Frank Adoption Center, a U.S.-based organization specializing in international adoptions, until 2003.
During this period, WCCCI supported the agency’s efforts to facilitate international adoptions, particularly promoting the welfare of children from former Soviet republics. The organization worked to ensure that adoption processes adhered to the highest ethical standards and that children were placed in safe and loving family environments. - Creation of the City of Peace for Children
One of WCCCI’s flagship initiatives, the City of Peace for Children, was envisioned as a haven where vulnerable children could find shelter, education, and holistic care. The first City of Peace was established in Basilicata, Italy, serving as a model for future centers worldwide.
Global Advocacy and Partnerships:
Over the years, WCCCI has brought together Nobel Peace Laureates, global leaders, and organizations to amplify the voices of children. Under the guidance of Betty Williams and her team, WCCCI became a platform for dialogue and action, emphasizing the critical need to address the root causes of violence and inequality.
Expanding the Vision:
The WCCCI extended its mission to include peace education, community resilience, and environmental sustainability. Collaborating with influential advisors such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Rigoberta Menchú Tum, Desmond Tutu, and others, the organization became a beacon for compassionate leadership
Legacy and Impact:
Betty Williams’s passing in 2020 marked a profound loss, but her vision lives on through the WCCCI. The organization continues to thrive under the leadership of its co-founders, including Enzo Cursio, who has been instrumental in expanding WCCCI’s reach and ensuring its mission remains relevant in addressing modern global challenges.
Today, WCCCI stands as a testament to the power of compassion in action, impacting countless lives and inspiring a global movement for peace and justice for children everywhere.