Statement from Radio For Peace International, 31 July 2003 

Radio For Peace International has approached the University for Peace Council members to propose a meeting with the Radio For Peace International Board of Directors to seek a peaceful resolution so both organizations can continue with their important work. We are awaiting their response. 

Radio For Peace International's mission has not changed in the last 16 years during which time we have been broadcasting harmoniously alongside the University for Peace, an organization also dedicated to peace. As we have never experienced any problems with the previous five administrations that presided over the University for Peace over the last 16 years until the current administration headed by Maurice Strong, it begs the following question: how has the mission of the University for Peace changed to such a degree that it now claims that "Current activities at RFPI are inconsistent with the international emphasis currently being developed by the University." Tico Times, July 25th 2003. 

Doubt and confusion have been caused by the letter to Radio For Peace International delivered by an official of the University, asking RFPI to vacate the building that it owns (built by RFPI listener donations) in two weeks time on August 4, 2003.  The letter is signed not by the Rector of the University for Peace but by a lawyer who does not indicate who he represents or who authorized him to send such a letter. No resolution from the University for Peace Council has been presented as confirmation that this has the sanction of the University's Council members, even though two individuals from the University have indicated that a Council resolution is the basis for this action. Also this letter does not constitute an eviction, as it does not come from any Costa Rican or international authority. 

On August 4th, on the supposed deadline given to RFPI to vacate the buildings it built and owns, Radio For Peace International plans to remain in their building, peacefully conducting business as usual and continuing attempts to negotiate with the University. Our peace radio station calls on the University to act in a manner befitting a fellow peace organization and on the University for Peace Council members to meet with our Board of Directors.