The Network of Religious and Traditional Peacemakers

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

The project will support during 2021-2024 the activities of the Finn Church Aid (FCA) as a secretariat for the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers and the implementation of the global programme of the Network for a total of 1 300 000 euros. The Network’s long-term impact envisaged is that religious and traditional actors play a positive role in preventing violence and contributing to sustainable peace. The Network wants to enhance the effectiveness of efforts towards peaceful and inclusive societies by increasing the active collaboration between religious and traditional actors and other key stakeholders in conflict transformation. The project has been supported since 2014. The initiative is internationally innovative and the Network has received good feedback on its active approach. The project supports both Finland's development policy and mediation goals and the implementation of the Africa strategy. For Finland, it is important that the Network works in close cooperation with the UN and supports its activities, thus contributing to both achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing mediation. The project also contributes to increasing Finnish mediation capacity. Gender equality and the participation of women and youth in peace processes are key objectives for the Network. The Network also works to prevent violent extremism. The evaluation of the Network, funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, was completed in 2018. It was positive and noted, e.g., the relevance of the Network internationally. The results of the Network include, i.a., involving religious and traditional actors in peace processes and strengthening dialogue. The Network’s regional focus is on Sub-Saharan Africa (i.a. Kenya, Somalia, Mozambique), South and South East Asia (incl. Myanmar), Europe (Balkan) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The work is carried out through members and partnerships.