The two short publications, Laying the Foundations for Peace: a policy contribution 2016 and Ten years of Peacebuilding Work in Conflict Regions: Reflections of Foundations for Peace Network Members were presented to promote discussion and exchange at their conference and events at the Philanthropy House, Brussels, in November 2016, to mark the 10th anniversary of the Foundations for Peace (FFP) Network.
Both are drawn from the combined experiences and reflections of the members of the Network sharing not only the lessons from their experience but also their thinking on the way forward for philanthropy and its role in the current difficult times.
The member foundations of the FFP Network are indigenous to, and proactively working in, societies that have been deeply impacted by violent conflict and communal division. All are deeply committed to the empowerment of local communities to develop sustainable peacebuilding and conflict resolution solutions to local conflict.
The members share a commitment to social justice and peacebuilding in difficult and complex situations. While each foundation operates in a unique conflict environment and seeks to support peacebuilding activities appropriate to the context, they have found many commonalities in terms of impact and need. In the words of the FFP Network members,
“We have also learned and wish to share the story of the added value of using indigenous foundations to embed sustainable programmes in areas of conflict – we know the complexity, understand the political nuances, and have reach and access. We connect with those most impacted. We also live with our decisions – we do not walk away when times get tough.”
The members have learned from each other and from other transnational conflict situations and wish to share this learning with those who have a stake in peacebuilding and social justice philanthropy or practice. “We believe that philanthropists and development agencies can, and should, learn from our experiences and work in partnership with us and other indigenous foundations to ensure sustainable long-term benefits for local communities impacted by conflict and division.”
“We believe that philanthropists and development agencies can, and should, learn from our experiences and work in partnership with us and other indigenous foundations to ensure sustainable long-term benefits for local communities impacted by conflict and division.”