Dialogue and Exchange

Implementing local peace networks to reduce urban insecurity

In Haiti and Guatemala, implementing local peace networks is one way that organizations are working to reduce urban insecurity. AFSC convened practitioners to discuss their experiences with this approach and to formulate recommendations that can be applied in other communities. Read their report.

Implementación de plataformas locales de paz urbana: Lecciones aprendidas

Las Plataformas Locales de Paz (PLP) son grupos que trabajan hacia la transformación de conflictos comunitarios, sobre todo en zonas con altos niveles de violencia y exclusión social. Su objetivo fundamental es transformar las fuentes de tensión y conflicto en comunidades y fortalecer las capacidades locales para la paz.

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Implementing local peace networks in urban spaces: Lessons learned

Local peace networks (LPNs) are groups that work toward resolving community disputes, particularly in areas experiencing high levels of violence and social exclusion. Their underlying objective is to transform the conflict’s roots and build local capacities for peace. Each network is typically made up of six to 12 participants who become facilitators in their respective communities.

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Mise en place de plateformes locales pour la paix en milieu urbain

Les plateformes locales pour la paix sont des groupes qui travaillent pour la transformation de conflits communautaires, en particulier dans des zones où les niveaux de violence et d’exclusion sociale sont élevés. Leur objectif fondamental est de transformer les sources de tension et de conflit dans les communautés et de renforcer les capacities locales pour la paix. Chaque micro-plateforme est généralement composée de 6 à 12 participants qui deviennent des facilitateurs dans leurs communautés respectives pour interagir ensuite sur une plateforme élargie.

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Emerging from faith communities to address climate change

DEP Sri Lanka

Eroded coastline
Image Available on Flickr

The Mannar coastline has eroded significantly over the past 10 years, causing the historic first British Governor’s mansion (pictured) to fall into the sea.

Climate change is not just a scientific issue or an economic issue—it is an ethical issue. So for religious leaders, guiding people on how to live their lives in ways that recognize the impacts of human behavior on the climate is critical—especially in Southeast and South Asia, where evidence of climate change is all too visible.

The peacemaking role of traditional leaders

Traditional leaders from Cameroon

Traditional leaders traveled to Nairobi to take part in an AFSC meeting on their role in dispute management. Participants included Fon Fobuzie Martin B. Asanji (left) and Fon Ngwefuni Fransua Nono (right) from northwest Cameroon and Dr. Chief Atem-Ebako Bisong from southwest Cameroon.

Maintaining peace is among the main roles played by traditional elders in many African societies. Their influence goes a long way in resolving disputes between family members, within and among communities, and occasionally across state lines.

But as the nature of conflict changes, their ability to lead effectively is threatened.

Seeds of economic growth, security lie beyond agriculture for many in Africa

Claudette selling items in Muramvya, Burundi

Claudette is part of an income-generating program with Biraturaba, an AFSC partner that works with returnees, internally displaced people, and ex-combatants in Burundi.

Dependence on the land has long been a source of conflict in Burundi. Its soil can’t keep up with the rate of population growth—among the highest in sub-Saharan Africa—and the courts are crowded with cases of conflicting claims to property.

At the root of the problem is the fact that many Burundians’ livelihoods are tied to agriculture while the land is increasingly infertile, says Triphonie Habonimana, AFSC program officer. Food shortages, combined with high unemployment rates, spur conflict.

Who we are

AFSC is a Quaker organization devoted to service, development, and peace programs throughout the world. Our work is based on the belief in the worth of every person, and faith in the power of love to overcome violence and injustice. Learn more

Where we work

AFSC has office around the world. To see a complete list see the Where We Work page.

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