We talk a lot about peace. Building peace, world peace, inner peace, a peaceful future. But how is it actually going to happen?
21st September marks the UN’s International Day of Peace – a global call for ceasefire and non-violence. Whilst Peace Day is a beacon of hope, and an opportunity for us all to reflect, it also serves as a stark reminder that in recent years, we have seen an unprecedented global increase in war and violence.
Sudan is facing a country-wide famine following the escalation of war in April 2023. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), civilians are caught in the crossfire of violent conflict and a humanitarian crisis. Israel continues its genocide on Palestine, killing over 40,000 people since October 2023.
Building peace is not an easy task. We see politicians argue endlessly about how to put an end to the violence and killing. But it is not politicians from different countries who know how best to build peace. It is local people.
At Peace Direct, we know local peacebuilders understand best what is going on in their communities, which is why we do not intervene directly in conflicts. Instead, we support local people to stop violence. We do this by providing them with the support, skills, resources and voice needed to make peace a practical option.
