At Never Again Rwanda (NAR), peacebuilding is an essential aspect in protecting, promoting, and preserving peace in Rwanda and across the globe, so much so that we established the Peacebuilding Institute (PBI), a two-week workshop for aspiring peacebuilders from across the globe, since 2011.

In June 2023, the 21^st edition of the PBI workshop was held in Kigali, for 23 young aspiring peacebuilders. They came from different parts of the world, seeking to expand their understanding of peacebuilding. Through the workshop, they went on site visits that nurtured their curiosity and fed their need for knowledge while learning from local, regional, and international experts in the peacebuilding field. 

One such facilitator was Professor Goran Bandov, a professor at the University of Zagreb in Croatia, with a background and years of experience in Law, Political Science, Diplomacy, International Relations and Peace Studies.  

We spoke to Professor Bandov, about his experience as a speaker during the June 2023 PBI International Workshop and the importance of mentorship.  

Q: What inspired your interest in peacebuilding?  

“My deep interest in peacebuilding stems from both my personal history and the contemporary context of my society and country. In the early 1990s, Croatia was embroiled in a devastating war. As a young child, I experienced the harrowing reality of those times, seeking shelter in the basement of our home and later enduring the plight of becoming a refugee child. This profound experience left an indelible mark on my soul, compelling me to dedicate my life to ensuring that no one else would suffer as my family and I did.”  

Q: What was your experience as a lecturer at PBI? 

“The PBI workshop is a world-renowned prestigious program designed for aspiring peace advocates. Participating as a lecturer in this extraordinary program is an immense honor, as it seamlessly integrates practical experience with theoretical knowledge, fostering a deep understanding of the significance of reconciliation among nations, and the handling of historical conflicts, all while bringing these crucial concepts closer to young individuals.” 

The sessions at the PBI workshop serve as a source of empowerment for young peacebuilders, facilitating dialogues and encouraging cooperation to sustain their invaluable work and further their professional growth on a global scale. By engaging with diverse cultures and broadening their horizons, these individuals are better equipped to promote mutual understanding and tolerance among nations. 

Participating at PBI offers each speaker an exceptional opportunity to showcase their ideas to the next generation of global leaders. Simultaneously, it provides an open platform for engaging in a dialogue, allowing speakers to hear and absorb the thoughts and perspectives of young minds on how to foster social and economic progress, political stability, and security. This exchange is conducted with utmost regard for the protection and well-being of every human being, acknowledging the importance of sustainable development for the society as a whole.” 

Q: The PBI workshops provide a unique balance between speakers and peacebuilders; through the various sessions and site visits, there are plenty of opportunities to share knowledge. That means that although speakers are technically there to educate the peacebuilders, they also learn from them, sharing insight and perspectives on global issues. What was your view on dynamic between the participants and speakers? 

“People genuinely enjoy listening to speakers who are sincerely excited about sharing their knowledge and insights with others. The participants are highly eager to engage in discussions following the lectures, actively contributing their own perspectives through a series of questions, ideas, and suggestions on how to improve the society in which we live in. These young individuals possess a wealth of knowledge and innovative thinking, from which even experienced lecturers can learn and benefit. Their active participation and insightful contributions create a dynamic and enriching learning environment that stimulates collective growth and deepens our understanding of peacebuilding and societal progress.” 

Q: The PBI workshop opens its arms to diversity in its speakers and encourages them to become mentors to the young peacebuilders. As part of the journey for peacebuilders all over the world, it is essential that mentorship is a part of the learning and nurturing package provided by PBI. What are our thoughts on mentorship? 

“In essence, the role of a mentor is not only about imparting knowledge but also about fostering meaningful relationships that facilitate growth and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential. By offering guidance, sharing opportunities, and extending support, mentors play a vital role in shaping the futures of aspiring young individuals. It is both a privilege and a responsibility that I hold dear, and I am dedicated to assisting and supporting these participants in their journey towards a successful academic career. Witnessing their progress and success in their academic and professional endeavors would be incredibly rewarding, as it would signify the positive impact I have had on their lives.” 

Drawing from decades of research, education and real-world and personal experiences, he highlighted the importance of positive peace. His conviction shone through as he stressed the urgent need to embrace positive peace as the path to genuine and lasting harmony for all communities. 

The PBI workshop is creating a blazing trail of empowered and edified young peacebuilders, creating a community of peace-minded individuals from across the globe. The vision for PBI is to give young people an immersive experience on peacebuilding, and to prime them for the challenges and expectations of a world that still struggles to uphold peace as a basic human right.