The Peace Project is an eight-year programme (2024–2031) implemented in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Uganda, and South Sudan. It works with locally rooted organisations and “people with a mission” – youth leaders, women’s networks, religious actors, mediators, and trauma specialists – who are trusted within their communities and deeply understand local dynamics.

Together, we focus on three interconnected dimensions of change.

First, we create space for reflection and healing. In contexts marked by violence and loss, emotional and spiritual wellbeing are closely linked to peace. Through trauma-informed support, psychosocial dialogue spaces, and collaboration with religious actors, communities are supported to move beyond fear-driven and exclusionary narratives.

Second, we strengthen relationships across divides. We facilitate community dialogues, interfaith and interethnic encounters, youth-led initiatives, and women-led bridge-building processes. 

These meaningful interactions help reduce prejudice, broaden perspectives, and rebuild trust between groups that may have lived side by side for years without genuine connection. 

Third, we contribute to more inclusive and responsive conditions for peace. Local experiences are connected to policymakers at district, national, and international levels. Religious actors and youth are equipped to engage constructively in advocacy, while communities are supported to participate in dialogue processes related to governance, land rights, security, and constitution-making.

An example is the organisation of Inter-Ethnic and Interfaith Experiences, where participants from different backgrounds spend several days in facilitated dialogue and joint activities. These encounters often lead to lasting relationships and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.