THEMES
A) ‘Peace-Building' Initiatives: Assuming Responsibility, Taking Action, & Implementing Change
This theme looks at the array of initiatives that are undertaken by individuals and interest groups in their efforts to address problems. People no longer solely rely on interventions by governments or international bodies but as individuals or community groups quite often take the initiative themselves. The main advantage of local interventions is the local knowledge of the situation and the ability to plan and implement on-site. The initial motivation may well be to address a specific problem but there are many examples whereby localized interventions can actually be viewed as peace-building initiatives because their successes have had long-term effects providing lasting solutions. In addressing the identified ‘problem', potential conflicts are often averted. Conflict resolution is in the interest of everybody and this theme explores ways that as individuals' or community groups we can assume responsibility and take action for positive change.
B) Peace Education, Arts, & Sports: Inspiring Change
This theme provides a platform to review innovations in peace education that are designed to engage and enlighten people, encourage them to become active participants, and find enjoyment in that participation. These ‘new' approaches are not restricted to formal education but primarily focus on non-formal outreach programming that is rooted in the peace promotion agenda. The Arts & Sports areas transcend divisions, whether political, religious or otherwise, and have the ability to unite people. Arts and sports –related community development initiatives are an effective tool for social change because they are universal as well as inspirational.
C) Galvanizing Support & Promotion: Advocating Change
This theme highlights the critical role that the media can play in promoting positive changes as it is one of the primary vehicles to advocate that change. The media can also inform, raise awareness, and solicit support.
Solidarity and support can also be obtained from the corporate sector in many cases, helping not only with funds but by applying their know-how and skills to the mounting of effective campaigns. The messages signaled by the media and the corporate sector are of paramount importance. This is because they show quite clearly that none of us are working in isolation and that the efforts undertaken towards peaceful development warrant support and publicity. Channeling Real Changes is thus seen as a universal concern.
