The World Harmony Run promotes international friendship and understanding, with the participants carrying a burning torch. The torch goes from hand to hand, carried by thousands of people from all parts of the world and all people of good will wishing to participate in the run.
The runners visit schools, sports clubs, state and local institutions and organisations. The purpose of the run is not to raise money or promote political ideas, but to create good will among people and strengthen friendship and harmony.
Participants in this year's run will stay in Croatia until May 10, when they leave the country for Bosnia-Herzegovina. The run started in Lisbon on March 7. It will cover 48 European countries and end in Amsterdam on October 9.
The World Harmony Run was founded in 1987 by the athlete, artist and philosopher Sri Chinmoy and has been supported by many, including Pope John Paul II, Nelson Mendela, world leaders, athletes and other public figures.