The Transformation of Ethnic Relations and Collective Memory on the Raknus Selu Trail
This presentation explores how Taiwan’s Raknus Selu Trail transforms from a historical “Silent Frontier” into a “Landscape of Reconciliation.” It analyzes how community-led trail-making facilitates inter-ethnic dialogue and the reconstruction of collective memory.
Chenyin Chiang, Professor, National Central University
Hsiu-Tzu Chang, Associate Professor, National Cheng Kung University. Ming-Chien Hsu, Taiwan Thousand Miles Trail Association.
Building an Ecological Silk Road for Peace and a Sustainable Walking Culture
This presentation introduces YUCI’s sustainable walking practices rooted in Cheonseongsan and presents the Ecological Silk Road as a Vision 2050 alternative, linking ecology, culture, and peace through collaboration with the World Trails Network.
Yunyoung Hwang, Director, Yangsan Urban Culture Research Institute
How Kythera Trails Rescued Oral History and Endangered Toponyms
Kythera Trails is more than a hiking network; it is a cultural ark. By interviewing elders in every village, we rescued fading oral histories and forgotten place names. Join us to learn how trail development can actively save local culture and turn a hike into a journey through memory.
Fivos Tsaravopoulos, Manager, Paths of Greece Social Cooperative
George Kasimatis, President of the KIPA Foundation, Kytherian Foundation for Culture and Development
Walking Together: Cross-Cultural Connection in Peace Trails
This session explores the role of cross-cultural connection in shaping meaningful and enduring Peace Trails initiatives. Drawing on experience working alongside Indigenous communities and diverse stakeholders globally, Kylie will share insights into what it truly means to “walk together” — moving beyond consultation toward genuine partnership.
The presentation will highlight practical approaches to building trust, respecting cultural authority, and creating shared pathways that honour different knowledge systems, histories and aspirations. It will also explore how Peace Trails can act as platforms for connection, truth-telling and reconciliation, while delivering social, cultural, environmental and economic outcomes.
Participants will gain an understanding of the conditions required for successful cross-cultural collaboration, and how to embed these into trail planning, development and management. This session is relevant for practitioners, planners and leaders seeking to create trail experiences that are inclusive, respectful and grounded in place.
Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana, Managing Director, TRC Tourism
