More than 79.5 million people fled war, persecution, and conflict in 2019, according to the United Nations
The highest number the organization had ever recorded. Although the solutions that will end violent conflict are complex, Rotary believes that when groups of dedicated people work to create peace in their communities, their efforts can have a global effect.
PEACEBUILDING AND CONFLICT PREVENTION
BUILDING PEACE
Peace has a unique status in Rotary. We approach peace not as an abstract concept, but as a living, dynamic expression of human development. As a humanitarian service organization, we hold it as both a cornerstone of our mission and an area of focus — one of the main ways in which our members strengthen communities. Rotary’s peacebuilding initiatives seek to create environments where lasting peace is possible.
We do this by:
Continually investing in sustainable and measurable peace programs in our communities and around the globe
Educating and creating an extensive network of peacebuilders and community leaders dedicated to peacebuilding and conflict prevention
Providing members with several ways in which they can actively engage with, contribute to, and promote peacebuilding initiatives in their communities
TAKE ACTION
Rotary supports training, education, and practices related to peacebuilding and conflict prevention through initiatives that help create social cohesion and that transform conflict in our own communities and around the world.
Our members focus on prevention and transformation identifying and working to resolve the underlying conditions, relationships, and social structures that give rise to conflict. By addressing the causes of conflict, communities can move beyond conflict resolution or management to change the environment that led to violence or a threat of violence. This focus on transformation helps ensure sustainable and lasting peace.
Rotary members can engage with this area of focus by designing projects and programs that:
Enhance the capacity of individuals and communities to transform conflict and build peace
Train community members in peace education, peace leadership, and conflict prevention and resolution
Provide services that help integrate vulnerable people or those affected by conflict into society
Improve dialogue and community relations to determine the best way to manage community resources
Fund graduate scholarships for career-minded professionals related to peacebuilding and conflict prevention
Create platforms for cross-cultural exchanges and dialogue
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Use role-playing, sports, or other experience-based learning methods to teach children and young adults socially appropriate ways of dealing with conflict.
Work with local organizations that community members trust and have a relationship with.
Train community leaders in strategies to prevent and mediate conflict, such as facilitating community dialogue and initiating alternative dispute-resolution practices.
Partner with Rotary Peace Fellows and other conflict-prevention experts and organizations.
