On 4 November, Brussels felt unusually alive. More than a hundred peacebuilders, religious leaders, policymakers, donors and researchers gathered for the international JISRA conference Securing FoRB through an Inclusive Peacebuilding Approach. People who usually work worlds apart — from remote communities to EU institutions — suddenly found themselves in one room, sharing stories, hard-won lessons and hopes for the future.
The gathering marked a key moment in a five-year journey. JISRA, a multi-country programme focused on strengthening Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) through inclusive peacebuilding, is entering its final phase. The conference offered space to reflect on what has been built, what remains fragile, and why the work of local partners cannot end when the programme does.
Why this mattered
What came through most clearly in Brussels is what JISRA has stood for over the past five years: locally rooted peacebuilding led by the people who know their communities best. Across Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iraq, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria and Uganda, partners have been working daily to counter discrimination, challenge harmful narratives and strengthen cooperation between religious groups. Their efforts — from elevating youth and women faith leaders to supporting interfaith peace committees — formed the backbone of the conversations throughout the day, illustrating how real change grows from long-term trust and communitydriven action.
The Brussels conference — made possible through close collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs — was not just a closing moment. It was a reminder of why this work remains urgent: discrimination, polarisation, digital threats and conflict continue to shape daily life for many of the communities JISRA partners serve.
Opening the conversation
The day opened with remarks from Bea ten Tusscher, former Dutch Special Envoy on FoRB, and Rick van der Woud, CEO of Mensen met een Missie. Both stressed the importance of long-term engagement and collaboration with religious and traditional actors — voices that often hold the trust of communities where formal institutions fall short. An exhibition showcased tools, stories and products from seven programme countries, illustrating what peacebuilding looks like in practice: from local initiatives to global lobby efforts.
From local realities to global policy
Throughout the morning and afternoon, parallel sessions explored what makes inclusive peacebuilding work. Discussions ranged from youth leadership and power sharing to the role of women religious actors in preventing violent extremism. Panels also examined how a peacebuilding lens can strengthen FoRB programming, and how interfaith peace committees help dismantle harmful narratives.
Another highlevel session, held at Thon Hotel EU in collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, brought together policymakers, diplomats and practitioners to discuss the role of religious actors in foreign policy. In a time of rising global tensions and defense spending, speakers highlighted how these actors can bridge divides, mediate in fragile contexts and foster trust where states struggle to reach.
Lasting impact
What stood out throughout the day was the genuine exchange between local peacebuilders and EU policymakers. Their presence signaled a growing recognition in Brussels that supporting interfaith committees, women religious actors and youth-led initiatives is essential for sustainable FoRB promotion and conflict prevention.
Participants emphasised that although the JISRA programme is coming to an end, its relationships and lessons should guide future work. Writer and journalist Marc van Dijk captured this sentiment in his closing reflection, reminding everyone that FoRB is not an abstract concept. It is a lived reality that requires ongoing dedication, solidarity and investment.
Looking ahead
As conversations continued during the closing networking moments, one message came through clearly: the work does not stop here. The evidence, tools and partnerships built over the past five years form a strong foundation for what comes next. Whether in preventing violence, protecting minority rights, ensuring digital safety or strengthening the leadership of women and youth, long-term commitment remains essential.
