Oftentimes, peace is looked at as the responsibility of ruling governments or those in power to promote and preserve; what is often overlooked is the power of ordinary citizens, especially the youth. Through education, and programs like the Peacebuilding Institute (PBI) workshop, many young people are gaining the necessary knowledge on peace.   

Peacebuilding is not merely the absence of conflict, but rather a proactive and holistic process aimed at preventing the recurrence of violence and addressing the underlying causes of disputes. It involves fostering sustainable relationships, strengthening governance structures, promoting social justice, and creating an environment conducive to cooperation and mutual understanding. 

In August 2023, the 22^nd PBI workshop was held for young individuals from the East and Horn of Africa region. For two weeks, 14 individuals from nine countries gathered in Kigali to learn about peacebuilding, and its immense importance in promoting and preserving global tranquility. By creating a platform for cross-cultural learning, the young peacebuilders were able to share exchanges and interact with one another.  

Creating Avenues for Learning 

The workshop provided the setting for the breakdown of stereotypes, dispelling misconceptions, and nurturing empathy among students who may have grown up with limited exposure to different cultures and histories. This exposure cultivated an appreciation for the richness of diversity and reinforced the notion that despite differences, the shared pursuit of peace binds humanity together. 

The peacebuilders engaged in discussions, visited cultural and historical sites, and collaborated on projects that required them to address complex issues from various perspectives. In the process and most importantly they learned effective resolution skills that are necessary in conflict management. During the workshop, they were encouraged to exchange ideas and interact with the session facilitators and with each other, to share differing opinions and build a tolerance for differing viewpoints, which were great ways to encourage the practice of diplomacy versus confrontation. 

“The ability to learn from experienced mentors and network with fellow peacebuilders has raised my confidence in making a lasting impact. With the tools acquired from PBI, I am now equipped to lead my community toward a more harmonious and empowered future, especially in the realm of women’s empowerment,” says Diang, a peacebuilder from South Sudan, who attended the workshop. 

PBI workshops have been held since 2011. Through the years, the aim has been to grow and develop future leaders by providing them with opportunities to immerse themselves in the principles of peacebuilding and become changemakers who play a role in shaping future policies. Although this workshop had a regional focus, other workshops in the past have included young peacebuilders from all parts of the world.  

The Future of Peace 

Through the workshop, the peacebuilders have first-hand exposure to the conflicts, contexts and challenges faced in different regions across the globe. The PBI workshop leaves the participants better equipped to formulate inclusive strategies that consider the needs of all parties involved. 

The August 2023 Regional PBI workshop was a gathering that went beyond learning, it helped to build strong connections between the participants. These connections and networks formed are invaluable, as the peacebuilders are now tasked with promoting peace across their communities and the globe towards sustainable change. 

The significance of peacebuilding in society is one which cannot and should not be overlooked; PBI Workshops are essential in providing the youth with powerful mechanisms for cultivating mutual understanding, nurturing effective communication, and sowing seeds that lead to global harmony. As Never Again Rwanda, the pledge has always been to support youth in the best way possible.  

One way to accomplish that objective is to prepare them for the role of peaceful leaders in their communities by sharing knowledge with them that will lead to a cooperative, empathetic, and tranquil world for all. This is is why PBI workshops will continue to carry the torch of peace for all peacebuilders across the globe.