Rotary pilots new approach to peace and spotlights six peacemakers

EVANSTON, Ill. (September 21, 2017) — Rotary has entered a new partnership with the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) to enhance its peace and conflict resolution efforts with data-driven methodologies and tools, as it honors six ‘Champions of Peace.’

The partnership with IEP – a global think tank that pioneered a conceptual framework for ‘Positive Peace’  – enables both organizations to work together to create an online learning platform with webinars and interactive tools to teach Rotary members and Rotary Peace Fellows to apply new peacebuilding methods to their communities while addressing underlying causes of conflicts. In addition, the partnership allows for the development of local workshops hosted by Rotary clubs to educate communities about positive peace.

“Peace is much more than the mere absence of violence,” said Rotary President Ian H.S. Riseley. “The IEP has helped shift the world’s conversation about peace to a positive, achievable and tangible measure of human wellbeing and progress. Our partnership will foster community-based projects in peace and conflict resolution that are both practical and impactful.” 

 

“We are excited to be partnering with Rotary on this important initiative to reach millions of people, helping them to become peacemakers,” said founder and Executive Chairman of IEP Steve Killelea. “As recent events clearly indicate, peace is a pre-requisite for humanity to thrive. The Rotary programs, built on Positive Peace, will be an invaluable contribution to global peace.”

Rotary members and peace fellows take action to address underlying causes of conflict by providing access to clean water and sanitation, supporting education, preventing and treating disease, saving mothers and children and growing local economies. To celebrate their impact and in recognition of International Day of Peace, Rotary is highlighting the following six Champions of Peace: