Tackling the War in Ukraine & Rising Global Violence What role for governments, citizens and movements? Charting Pathways to a World Beyond War
In a world wracked by turmoil, the Russian invasion and war in Ukraine is Europe’s worst war and aggression since World War II. The story is distressing: millions displaced, hundreds of thousands killed or injured, and an equal number drafted into a battle they never sought. The financial drain is staggering, funneling billions into arms rather than development, leaving a trail of decimated homes, schools, hospitals, and shattered infrastructure across a resilient nation. Amidst this tumult, one question takes center stage: what roles can governments, citizens, and transformative movements play in reversing this trajectory of war and violent conflict and contributing to real, just and sustainable peace and security – in Europe and around the world?
Our era is grappling with profound transformation. Over the past decade, global violent conflicts have surged, more than doubling world-wide, upending lives, destroying hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure, and forcing more than 110 million individuals and families into displacement. From Niger to Ecuador, Sudan to Afghanistan, more and more countries find themselves mired in instability, with no respite in sight. The escalating ‘great power rivalries’ involving the United States, China, and Russia further exacerbate the situation. Against a backdrop of widening global disparities and an impending climate crisis, a unique gathering of individuals committed to fostering peace within chaos is set to convene in a virtual forum.
This assembly of peacebuilders represents a beacon of hope. Their resolute pursuit of practical on the ground interventions in the midst of violence and war will guide us towards tangible solutions. We are steadfast in our commitment to unveiling actionable pathways that resonate locally and globally alike. Together, we will uncover the roles that governments, visionary youth, grassroots organizations, and people around the world can undertake to dismantle the pillars of violence and war. This is not merely a conversation; it is a blueprint for real-world impact. The 21st century has ushered in a disconcerting escalation in violence and conflict. Yet, it has also witnessed the emergence of remarkable peacebuilding endeavors, grassroots movements, and innovative strategies poised to tackle our era’s most formidable challenges head-on.
This global webinar stands as a testament to our collective strength and potential to effect change. It serves as a reminder that amidst turmoil, our agency remains unwavering. Empowered by this knowledge, we are equipped to construct a world that transcends the shackles of war, embracing a future defined by unity and lasting peace.
