About Nonviolent peaceforce
Nonviolent Peaceforce: Protecting Civilians and Building Peace through Unarmed Strategies
Nonviolent Peaceforce is a global non-governmental organization that works to protect civilians in violent conflicts through unarmed strategies. The organization was founded in 2002 by a group of peace activists who believed that there was a need for an alternative approach to conflict resolution, one that did not rely on violence or military force.
The mission of Nonviolent Peaceforce is to promote and build sustainable peace in areas affected by violent conflict. The organization believes that violence only begets more violence, and that the only way to break the cycle of violence is through nonviolent means.
One of the key strategies employed by Nonviolent Peaceforce is unarmed civilian protection (UCP). UCP involves sending trained civilian peacekeepers into conflict zones to provide protection for civilians who are at risk of harm. These peacekeepers work alongside local communities, building relationships and trust with them, so they can better understand their needs and concerns.
Nonviolent Peaceforce also works closely with local organizations and community leaders to develop long-term solutions for sustainable peace. This includes supporting initiatives such as dialogue sessions, mediation efforts, and community-based reconciliation programs.
In addition to its work on the ground, Nonviolent Peaceforce also advocates for policies that support nonviolence as a means of conflict resolution. The organization believes that governments should invest more resources into nonviolence training programs for military personnel and law enforcement officers.
Nonviolent Peaceforce has been involved in numerous conflicts around the world since its inception. In Sri Lanka, the organization played a key role in protecting civilians during the civil war between government forces and Tamil separatists. In South Sudan, Nonviolent Peaceforce has been working since 2010 to protect civilians from violence perpetrated by armed groups.
Overall, Nonviolent Peaceforce's approach represents an innovative alternative to traditional methods of conflict resolution. By promoting nonviolence as a means of achieving lasting peace, this organization offers hope for those living in areas affected by violent conflict around the world.