In Hawaiian, when two words are placed side by side, their meaning is deepened or emphasized. The Hawaiian concept of "pono" is understood to mean balance and righteousness. "Pono Pono" therefore extends pono to a deeper level and reminds us that to have Pono Pono peace, it is not enough to avoid conflict or do right; we need to do more to create peace. It is not enough to remove the weeds; we must plant the flowers and food of peace. Pono Pono is inspired by a principle similar to positive peace - that it is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of the attitudes, institutions, and structures that create and sustain peaceful, equitable societies.

Pono Pono is a call to be a positive influence in peacebuilding, to be a part of the movement towards a more peaceful existence in our homes, work, schools, and communities. Positive peace is the flourishing of communities, the equitable distribution of resources, and the upholding of universal human rights. It is not just the silence after the guns have been silenced, but the symphony of a people living in harmony. Pono Pono reminds us that to achieve this, we must do more than simply avoid conflict or do what is right; we must actively work to create the conditions for peace to thrive.