Civil society can play a crucial role in rebuilding relationships that have been damaged by conflict, open up channels of communication across lines of division, and reduce tension within and between communities. We work to strengthen civic actors and support them to connect, share experiences, and be part of decision-making processes that support peace.
Libya
We convene peacebuilding practitioners from among civil society organisations, local authorities, and traditional leaders – as well as media and the education sector – to establish reliable channels of information exchange, share understandings of the peace and conflict context in Libya and identify areas for collaboration on practical peacebuilding issues. Members of this peacebuilding practitioners’ network have tackled a diverse range of issues including hate speech in schools, women’s participation in peace processes and the promotion of debate around the drafting of the Libyan constitution.
Ukraine
We have provided training to civil society representatives in different parts of the country to help them integrate conflict analysis and conflict response into their programming. We have helped organisations share experience and improve practice by supporting them to build platforms for cooperation among dialogue facilitators.
Syria
We have developed a network of volunteer community leaders who have played an important role in the release of hostages and detainees, secured safe passage for people, enabled humanitarian aid to reach conflict-affected communities, and established local peace agreements that have prevented violent conflicts.