Dear HumanDHS network friends
Please find below the GCPE October 2007 Newsletter#48 from www.tc.edu/PeaceEd/newsletter
Kind regards
Brian Ward
PEACE EDUCATION MEANS PREVAILING JUSTICE
Dr.Ghassan Abdallah (Palestine)
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
The fact that I was given this honor to write these words for the GCPE is more than an opportunity to communicate with you, but also it is a good sign of recognition and affirmation of diversity by the Global Campaign for Peace Education. It is also a way of appreciating ALL our efforts towards achieving sustainable and just peace for the whole global community.
Despite the ongoing violent confrontation in my area, besides the daily violations of human rights and different forms of humiliation, we still believe that there is Hope and a possibility for ending occupation and settling the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through dialogue and negotiations. Both sides have been trying all aspects of violence and bloodshed without reaching a final stable solution. It is our responsibility, as educators, in order to abolish violence and oppression, to face hopelessness and anger, we All have to walk arm in arm, as “we must be the change we are wishing to see in the World” (Gandhi).
We are all, Palestinians and Israelis, motivated these days by a new sign of hope - the Autumn Peace Conference to be held in mid-November 2007. We see in this meeting an opportunity for wider active engagement in order to push forward joint Palestinian-Israeli educational work so that our children might start to know the other face of the coin. Unfortunately, Palestinians and Israelis have been missing the train of daily communication on a mutual level for decades. That is why We always say: “My enemy is that one, I did not hear her/his story yet.” We are doing the maximum to face hate and the delegitimizing of the other - we seek instead to bring the human face of the other, and to break down the barriers between the two nations. These barriers, in my opinion, are not only clouding the relations between the two people, but also preventing the possibility for peace and sustainable development to prevail.
Therefore, our efforts and yours are more than an absolute urgency. Peace education can correct misunderstandings and misconceptions of the other. Peace education can build and foster bridges of understanding and mutual cooperation, not only for our benefits, but also for the young and coming generations. We have to educate these young generations that it is possible to avoid conflicts and to solve our disputes peacefully, making it clear that Peace is not merely the absence of daily violent confrontation, but it is also the presence of justice. If we can make justice prevail then we can achieve a peaceful Global community.
Dr. Ghassan Abdallah (Palestine)
email: care[@]palnet.com
web: www.care-palestine.com
IN THIS ISSUE
News & Highlights: Liberia launches a Peace, Citizenship, & Human Rights Education Initiative
Peace Education in the Field: Profile of Amada Benavides and Fundación Escuelas de Paz, Colombia
Research: Conflict Resolution Education (CRE)/Peace Education (PE) Evaluation Project Proposal
NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS
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Liberia’s launches a Peace, Citizenship, and Human Rights Education Initiative
The News of Monrovia reports the Head of the UN Refugee Agency in Liberia, Renata Dubini recently addressed the launch of Liberia’s first-ever Peace, Human Rights and Citizenship Education programme at the Education Ministry in Monrovia. “According to Dubini, with the launch of the programme, Liberian students will have the opportunity to learn about peace, understand the context of post-conflict transition through integration of knowledge, skills, values and attitudes associated with the promotion of respect for human rights principles, gender equity, active citizenship, democratic participation and peaceful co-existence. UNHCR is said to have supported the Ministry of Education in the printing of 10,000 copies of a Peace Education activity book, training of 144 teachers in the 15 counties, provision of materials such as generators, computers and public address systems in two out of three resource centers. UNHCR is also part of the Ministry’s Steering Committee for Peace Education since 2006”. For the rest of the story visit http://allafrica.com/stories/200710011332.html
PEACE EDUCATION IN THE FIELD
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Profile of Amada Benavides and Fundación Escuelas de Paz, Colombia
What is your affiliation with the Global Campaign for Peace Education? How did you learn about it / get involved?
I participated in one of the first meetings of the campaign during the Hague Appeal for Peace Civil Society Conference in 1999. We were invited by Hans Levander, the Director of Life Link Friendship School. We had been working with a Life Link project since 1997. Three teachers and six students from Abraham Lincoln School and seven children from the Child Peace Movement in Colombia attended the Hague Conference.
In that meeting some Latin American teachers invited our colleagues to have a round table about the possibilities of networking, projects and communications at the regional level. I had the opportunity to meet with Professor Alicia Cabezudo (another member of the GCPE) for the first time which was the beginning of a good partnership and friendship. In 1999, she invited me to be part the Global Campaign for Peace Education.
In June 2001, as dean of Postgraduate Programs of the College of Public Administration in partnership with GCPE, I organized the Seminar “Conflict and Culture of Peace” in Bogota, Colombia. In November 2002 I attend the Global Campaign for Peace Education meeting in New York and I was nominated as part of the Advisory Committee.
In June 2004, I was invited to the conference “Towards a World without Violence,” in the framework of Forum Barcelona 2004, co-sponsored by the Hague Appeal for Peace, The International Peace Bureau and the Fundacion por la Cultura de Paz. In October 2004 I attend the Conference “Developing Democracy through Peace Education: Educating toward a World without Violence,” hosted by the Hague Appeal for Peace in Tirana, Albania. On behalf of Schools of Peace Foundation we signed the Tirana Call for Peace Education. ( http://www.haguepeace.org/files/TheTiranaCallforPeaceEducation.pdf)
Since that time, I have been involved with different international initiatives such as the IPB, Decade for a Culture of Peace, Educating Cities, and the International Institute on Peace Education (IIPE & CIPE).
What particular projects are you currently involved with in promoting Peace Education?
In front of the moral, social, ethical and structural situation which has a long history in our country, professors of several schools of Bogotá D.C. considered in October of 1997 a high-priority to begin a program that qualified youth to become leaders & multipliers of the ideals of a Culture of Peace, human rights, and the management and transformation of conflicts.
This project has been denominated “Escuelas de Paz Para Jóvenes, Redes de Formación Juvenil en Conciencia Cuidadana y Derechos Humanos” (Schools of Peace for Young People, Nets of Juvenile Formation in City Conscience and Human Rights)
At the present time this initiative has been put into practice in several schools of very diverse ranges: private, public, confessionals and of different place of Bogotá D.C., and of some municipalities of Cundinamarca.
As a consequence of the work with the students it appears evident to extend these activities to other members of the educational community, including parents, families, as well as direct work within the community.
This growth that surpasses the frontiers of the formal school took us to constitute an ONG, denominated Fundación Escuelas de Paz (Schools of peace Foundation), Registration Not. S0015774, of the Chamber of Commerce of Bogotá D.C., with action in the national territory and an important linking to international organizations whose details appear exposed later.
The Fundación Escuelas de Paz is a collective project with an interdisciplinary team of professionals who began working together in October of 1997. The project comprises a net of national and international institutions that work in the promotion and popularization of the Culture of Peace, and human rights.
Following are some of our current projects – including goals and positive outcomes:
1. The project “Cathedra Guillermo Gaviria for the Promotion and Consolidation of the Culture of Peace and Nonviolence” has sought to diffuse experiences on peace and non-violence pedagogy at the local, national and international level. It seeks to strengthen the network of national organisations that works helping the promotion and consolidation of Peace and Non-Violence Culture and to link them to others in the International System as well as fortify institutional links between governmental and non-governmental participating organisations. It also seeks to share conceptual elements and pedagogic tools for learning and application of a Peace Culture accomplished nationally and internationally.
2. “Observation of School Coexistence as a Strategy for the Development of Citizen Competencies” This project seeks to take advantage of schools as privileged spaces of socialization to stimulate the development of reflexive capacities, critical analysis, thinking freedom, respectful attitudes, tolerance, solidarity and fraternity, with responsible participation possibilities in the school’s life as in their families and in the community relationships.
3. Developing the basic standards of Citizen Competences in the secondary school of the “Colegio Compartir” Municipio de Soacha. This project is oriented towards the improvement of the scholar coexistence in the educative institution through the design, application, systematization and evaluation of a Peace education proposal, with a wide participation of the educative community. The ultimate beneficiaries of this project are teenagers and youngsters in a vulnerability condition and the school’s educative community including teachers, parents and the Soacha Municipality (total students: 1340; direct Impact: 250 persons - students, teachers, and parents).
4. Implementation of the System of School Coexistence in the Municipality of Soacha. The social and economic situation of the municipality of Soacha is complex, in spite of the efforts of many public and deprived organizations, many children and young people are deprived of their human rights. This situation impelled UNICEF-Colombia to direct its attention to the situation of this municipality and to stimulate directed actions to improve the quality of life of adolescents and young people, to generate a culture of respect and human rights and to support the development of public policies that materialize them. We worked to help the Municipal Public administrator to design the Municipal System of Schools “Convivencia” defined in the Educational Decade Plan. We also helped establish a network of Schools Observatory of Citizens Competencies (6 schools, one for each neighborhood) and invited all municipal public administrators to join the program “Soacha municipio amigo de la Niñez y la adolescencia.” This project reached over 6000 people with the direct involvement of over 480 persons.
5. Project for the “Implementation of Human Rights Cathedra and Institutional Conformation of Spaces for the Resolution and Treatment of Conflicts in Local Schools of 4 Municipalities of Bogotá.” The objective of this project is to support the implementation of the Human Rights Cathedra and the institutional conformation of spaces for the treatment of conflicts, among integral of the educational communities of the 38 local schools located in Puente Aranda’s municipality, Martyrs, Antonio Nariño and Barrios Unidos. It was developed from February from 2006 to February 2007 with the support of the Secretary of Education of the Capital District, for the development of the Agreement 125 of 2004 and the Regulation Ordinance 024 of 2005 of the Alcadia mayor of Bogotá.
6. Implementation of the “Human Rights Cathedra and Institutional Conformation of Spaces for the Resolution and Treatment of Conflicts in Public Schools of Cuidad Bolívar.” In addition to supporting the implementation of the Human Rights Cathedra the project intended to qualify and to accompany the different actors of the educational community in the pedagogic boarding and the democratic treatment of the situations of conflicts presented in six local schools of Ciudad Bolivar’s municipality. It was developed between August and December of 2006 with the support of the Secretary of Education of Bogota. It sought to empower teachers as Human Rights leaders, to link Teacher’s networks and NGOs, and to work in the Bogota’s Teachers Network consolidation.
7. “Community-Based Institutes on Peace Education (CIPE).” CIPE –Colombia 2007: I Regional Encounter of Significant Experiences in Peace Education: A Possibility for the Integrated Prevention of Multiple Forms of Violence. 38 educators working in peace education had the opportunity to share a unique and exceptional experience designed to provide a space in which educators can share knowledge and teaching methodologies related to peace education, human security and human rights in a context that is culturally relevant. Furthermore, the CIPE is designed to provide opportunities for educators at the local level to dialogue with the vast international network of the IIPE thereby increasing opportunities for research and the potential impacts of peace education.
What are some of the struggles you have faced in implementing these projects?
Some of the common struggles we faced with these projects:
1. The financial outcomes. We have had some difficulty in finding financial resources for these projects. The small budget does not permit us to have a permanent staff for the Foundation and the professionals have part time salaries only when projects are being implemented.
2. Non coordination with other NGOs. In Colombia many NGOs are working in similar places and spaces. There are difficulties in order to invite them for coordinated and cooperative work. This means competition for the resources and it also means a wearing down of the population that receives aid and projects of diverse sources.
3. The evaluation process. At this moment this is one of our biggest concerns. What is the best way to evaluate peace programs? How to quantify the impact? How to prove the transformation process?
4. Parent’s participation. Although we tried to develop active and glad programs to motivate them, there are financial constrictions of time and prejudices that prevent their participation.
What do you see as the future of peace education in your community and the world – and how do you envision getting there?
Peace Education is an unquestionable demand of our time. The socio-political situation that we live in requires our shared efforts to propose solutions to transform the current “Culture of Violence” to a “Culture of Peace.”
Specifically linked with the violence lived and experienced in our country, all Colombians should take conscience of these serious crises and we need to begin to working to foster attitudes of change. It is for these reasons that we feel proud of being part of the solutions and not of the problems.
ACTION ALERTS
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Appeal to All Europeans to Prevent War Against Iran
At the start of October 2007, dozens of US personalities - political, religious, military, intellectual or artistic figures - appealed to the chiefs of staff, officers and soldiers of the USA to refuse any order to attack Iran. This unprecedented appeal underlines how real the risk is of war breaking out in the coming days, weeks or months, and how imperative it is to forestall this risk. The invasion of Iraq by the US-led coalition was contrary to the UN Charter and has turned out to be catastrophic. Any aggression against Iran would be just as illegal and even more catastrophic. You can read and sign the full appeal which appears online at http://acdn.france.free.fr/spip/article.php3?id_article=361&lang=en .
Action Alert Subscription
For those of you interested in receiving action alert updates more frequently than the once-a-month information provided in the GCPE newsletter, you can subscribe to a new email list that will forward important information, stories, and actions need. To subscribe go to http://c-i-p-e.org/elist/?p=preferences. For your email security updating your subscription to include the alerts is a two step process. After going online you will receive a confirmation email. Follow the link provided in the email and then you will be able make changes.
EVENTS & CONFERENCES
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The 8th Annual UNESCO Chair & Institute of Comparative Human Rights – (Oct 23)
The 8th Annual UNESCO Chair & Institute of Comparative Human Rights conference will examine the critical intersection between the environment and our quality of life. Conference speakers include Mr. Jim Enote, Dr. Marie-Denise Monique Finnigan, Dr. Vandana Shiva, Dr. Mariana Blengio Vald & Eacute, Dr. Yaacov Iram, Dr. Amii Omara-Otunnu, Dr. Nasila Rembe, Dr. Fouzia Rhissassi. Conference admission is free, however seating is limited. Please RSVP to 860.486.0647 or send e-mail to unescochair@uconn.edu
Peace as a Global Language VI & Imagine Peace – Kyoto University (Oct 27-28)
Peace as a Global Language is a conference for educators, students, NGOs and anyone interested in Peace and Global Issues in Education - English, Japanese and Bilingual Events! Join students, teachers, academics, activists and members of the local community to exchange ideas on how to make the world a better place. This year’s conference has more than sixty presenters, posters and other events including Betty Reardon and Kikuo Morimoto. This year’s Peace as a Global Language conference will be held in conjunction with Imagine Peace - celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Kyoto University of Foreign Studies. For full details, maps, and the event schedule, please visit our website at: http://www.pgljapan.org
2nd Annual International Conference on “ENGAGING THE OTHER:” The Power of Compassion – Dearborn, Michigan (Oct 25-28)
An international, multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary conference examining concepts of “The OTHER” from a universal, cross-cultural perspective to promote wider public dialogue about concepts of “Us and Them.” Supported by a growing international list of over 85 organizations and universities. The purpose of the conference is to: Raise the level, depth, and breadth of public dialogue and awareness on core issues. Explore dimensions and dynamics of “The OTHER” on both individual and group levels, and consider how enemy identity is formed, perpetuated, and manipulated, including fear-based belief systems, negative stereotypes, projection, prejudice, and scapegoating. Program, Registration, and Fee Details at: www.cbiworld.org/Pages/Conferences_ETO.htm
Gandhi-King Conference on Peacemaking – Memphis, Tennessee (Oct 26-27)
The Gandhi-King Conference on Peacemaking which will occur October 26th and 27th in Memphis, TN. This will be Memphis’ fourth annual conference during which academics, activists, professionals, students, and community members will gather from all over the country to participate in workshops, hear plenary addresses and paper presentations, and learn about various topics having to do with peace, nonviolence, and conflict resolution. For more information visit http://www.gandhikingconference.org
International Peace Bureau Annual Seminar - Alexandria, Egypt (Nov 11-12)
BOOKS OR BOMBS? Sustainable Disarmament for Sustainable Development
The International Peace Bureau in cooperation with the Institute for Peace Studies, Bibliotheca Alexandrina. www.peacestudiesinstitute.org This seminar is the main international gathering in 2007 to showcase and to debate IPB’s ongoing programme onSustainable Disarmament for Sustainable Development. The meeting will bring together experts and advocates, diplomats and students, journalists and civil society representatives from many countries. Linked to this seminar will be the annual IPB Council meeting (November 13). If you are interested please make your plans quickly, there is no time to lose. For more details about the programme, speakers, etc go to our NEW website www.ipb.org
Women and Peacebuilding Conference - University of Hartford (Nov 10)
Co-sponsored by Pax Educare, Inc. with the Women’s Education and Leadership Fund of the university. The day will include workshops on the media, UN Security Council Resolution 1325, and nonviolence, as well as a “theater of the oppressed” style performance by HartBeat Ensemble. Many of the workshops will emphasize local, grass-roots efforts, skills and processes for peace and social change. A Lifetime Achievement Award is being given to Elise Boulding, for her outstanding contributions to peace research and education in the 20th and 21st centuries. For further information: http://uhaweb.hartford.edu/peaceconf/
International Education for Peace Conference – Vancouver, Canada (Nov 15-18)
This conference is entitled “Strategies for Building a Civilization of Peace.” Essential to this undertaking is life-long peace education at home, in schools, and in the community, with its focus on the integral role of all members of society-children, youth, and adults-and with the equal participation of women and men in the administration of human affairs. For more information visit: www.efpinternational.org/conference2007
Walk the Green Line – Israel (Nov 27-29)
Walk the Green Line is your opportunity to experience what the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is all about, meet with Israeli and Palestinian peacemakers, and your chance to take a stand on the solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. You can make a real contribution towards peace making. You can make a difference. Participate in this hands-on experience that will translate your values into practice. For more information visit: www.walkthegreenline.org
Peace and Conflict Resolution Conference 2007 –Sarajevo (Dec 7-9)
Peace and Conflict Resolution Conference 2007 will take place in a city of Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 7th- 9th of December.. Deadline for abstracts submissions is October 20th, 2007. For more information visit: http://www.tomorrowpeople.org/peace/conference.htm
4th Global Symposium –Lucknow, India (Dec 7-10)
Inviting civil society, media, corporate representatives, university professors, educators and children from the world over to the 4th Global Symposium “Awakening Planetary Consciousness.” The Global Symposium is an annual event that has developed a world wide movement through a global partnership with civil society and educational organizations to establish sustainable development, world unity and world peace. For more information visit www.wmgd.net/symposium
Workshop on Humiliation and Violent Conflict representing the Tenth Annual Human DHS Meeting (Dec 13-14)
This workshop is a two day event being held at Teachers College, Columbia University from December 13-14, 2007. Given the current context of the field of international conflict, the impact of emotions on conflict has become one of the most important questions worldwide. However, there are only scattered publications in the research and applied literature that would address issues on conflict and emotion directly, as well as their relations and their impact on public policy. The workshops are envisaged as a learning community gathering, interactive and highly participatory. The purpose is to create an open space to identify and sharpen our understanding of the discourse and debate on emotion and conflict and the role that might, or might not be played by humiliation within this field. For more information visit: http://www.humiliationstudies.org/whoweare/don.php
Call for Proposals - The Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) – (March 9-11, 2008)
George Mason University Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (ICAR), and Fairfax County Public Schools present Sustaining Conflict Resolution Education: Building Bridges to the Future. This conference is designed to bring together professionals dedicated to the field of Conflict Resolution Education (CRE). Although the program will highlight the active CRE and Peer Mediation Community on the East Coast, all CRE professionals are invited to attend. Proposals for workshops are welcome from teachers, school counselors, higher education professionals, CRE trainers, members of the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) and the ACR Education Section. Visit http://www.mediate.com/acreducation/pg12.cfm to view more information about the conference and topics of interest.
Call for Proposals – 2nd International Summit on Conflict Resolution Education – (March 28-29, 2008)
Consider submitting a workshop proposal for the 2nd International Summit on Conflict Resolution Education, Youth and Conflict: Global Challenges - Local Strategies in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. You can fin more information on the event on the following Web site at: www.tri-c.edu/community/girc.htm
University of Texas at Austin - Annual Africa Conference – (March 28-30, 2008)
The University of Texas at Austin is hosting its annual Africa Conference. This year’s conference theme is Wars and Conflicts in Africa. The website for next year’s conference is: http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/2008/
International Summit on Children and Projects on Sustainability of Best Practices – Montreal (Quebec) Canada (Fall 2008)
The Organization for the Protection of Children’s Rights, a charitable organization based in Montreal (Quebec) Canada is presently working on organizing another International Summit to be held in the fall of 2008. The theme of this important international gathering of experts is “Children and Projects on Sustainability of Best Practices.” The goal of the Summit is to identify programs dealing with children and youth that are evidence-based or are highly promising or that are considered best practices. The main areas of focus include youth leadership, youth employability, children’s health, street gangs, violence, poverty, child labor, and trafficking. Programs or projects can be cultural; arts-based (music, dance, photography, etc.); social (including projects or programs that promote diversity); educational; economic; environmental; or health-based. As a general principle, it will be expected that the programs or projects presented are capacity building and strengths enhancing. If you are interested in presenting a poster at this Summit in Montreal, please contact either Mrs. Angela Ficca at ficcaa[@]osde.ca or Mrs. Johane Monette at jmonette[@]osde.ca
TRAININGS, WORKSHOPS, & SCHOLARSHIPS
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Global Human Rights Leadership Training Institute
Please be informed that the Global Human Rights Leadership Training Institute (GHRLTI) is now accepting applications for this year’s Certificate Course. The programme consists of 6 different modules, discussion and empowerment session each of which is geared towards helping the participants understand and internalize the Human Rights learning approach to development. The programme will give participants creative, concrete knowledge of how to use international and regional human rights treaties and enforcement mechanisms in their work for the protection of human rights. Application Procedure: The deadline for application is 27th October 2007. Applications will be accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis. Application forms can be downloaded at: http://www.justicegroup.org/training/application.htm
The United Training School of Ireland – Human Rights Training for Trainers – (Nov 11-12 )
The United Training School of Ireland (UNTSI) is organizing from 11 to 21 November an international training-of-trainers course on human rights. The course will take place at the Defense Forces Training Centre, in Curragh Camp, County Kildare (30 minutes from Dublin). The target group is military officers involved in training of military personnel of peace operations. The overall objective is to provide participants with an understanding of the legal and operational human rights issues and the possible roles and functions of military peacekeepers to promote and protect human rights in the mission area. Qualified applicants can contact Sgt. Philip Carr at UNTSI at philip.carr[@]defenceforces.ie
M.A. in Conflict Management Studies at Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel
This fall marks the opening of our new Master of Arts Program in Conflict Management Studies at Ben Gurion University of the Negev (Israel). This interdisciplinary program integrates theory and praxis in conflict management and peace-building as they relate to conflicts from the micro to macro levels. Our major focus is on violence prevention and peace education in multi-cultural contexts, especially as they relate to conflicts in Israel/Middle East and in the Negev - regions comprised of diverse peoples and communities. For more information contact: jchaitin[@]yahoo.com (Dr. Julia Chaitin) or conflict.mgt[@]gmail.com (Dr. Orna Levinson) by phone: 972- 54-5382524 (Dr. Orna Levinson) or visit our website (only in Hebrew, meanwhile) - http://hsf.bgu.ac.il/rt/index.htm
United Nations University for Peace
The United Nations mandated University for Peace will, for the first time, open some of its courses in the M.A. programme in Peace Education to outside participants. The courses will be delivered in English in our main campus in Costa Rica. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn from some of the leaders of the field of Peace Education. Information about the courses can be found at http://upeace.org/academic/masters/PE_brochure0708.pdf
Training Course on Human Rights Education with Children (Nov 10-18)
The Council of Europe launched a Programme “Building Europe for and with Children” in 2006 with the objective of formulating policy guidelines and establishing good practices in promoting children’s rights and standing up against violence against children. This training course on Human Rights Education with children will take place at the European Youth Centre Budapest from November 10-18, 2007. For more information or to register visit www.coe.int/youth
M.A. Program on Conflict Analysis and Resolution at Sabanci University
The program on Conflict Analysis and Resolution at Sabanci University in Istanbul, Turkey is accepting student applications for the 2007-08 academic year. The CAR program is the only Masters program of its kind in Southeastern Europe, taking a regional lead in training a new cadre of peacemakers and conflict prevention specialist from Turkey and countries around the world. The program emphasizes the scholar-practitioner model, providing students with a strong theoretical background as well as means for applying their knowledge to real-world settings. For more information, please visit: http://www.sabanciuniv.edu/ssbf/conf/eng/
Global Youth Connect - Human Rights Delegations for Young Leaders — winter 2007-2008
Global Youth Connect, an international human rights organization, is pleased to announce that we are accepting applications from young leaders (ages 18-25) for our winter 2007-2008 International Human Rights Delegations. Program locations include: El Salvador and Rwanda. Human rights delegations are a unique, first-hand opportunity to cross cultural boundaries and learn about the daily reality of human rights as experienced in a complex and increasingly globalized world. Each delegation weaves together three core sets of activities: site visits to local organizations, hands-on fieldwork projects, and a human rights training workshop with local youth activists. For more information visit: www.globalyouthconnect.org/participate
The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship
The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship was established in 1987 to provide college graduates with the opportunity to gain a Washington perspective on key issues of peace and security. Twice yearly, the Fellowship’s Board of Directors selects a group of outstanding individuals to spend six to nine months in Washington. Supported by a monthly stipend, the Fellows serve as full-time junior staff members at the participating organization of their choice. The program also arranges meetings for the Fellows with policy experts. Many former Scoville Fellows have gone on to prominent positions in the field of peace and security. To date, 104 fellowships have been awarded. For full information and application information: http://www.scoville.org/apply.html
PUBLICATIONS & RESEARCH
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Conflict Resolution Education (CRE)/Peace Education (PE) Evaluation Project Proposal
In order to promote PE/CRE we need to have a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges of this work. Recent meetings have made it clear that we do not have sufficient information about the kinds of evaluations that have been done, what we have learned from them; and what improvements to evaluation design, strategy and resources are needed. This proposal outlines the first phase of a three phase project to identify, clarify and promote peace education and conflict resolution education. The project builds upon the work of the Policy Meetings of the Inter-American Summit on Conflict Resolution Education (March 2007) in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, and the Planning Meeting of the Peace Education Reference Group of the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (April 2007) in Belgrade, Serbia. In both meetings, there was a clear need for more information about the nature of evaluation of peace education and conflict resolution education work throughout the global regions. This project will involve scholars and practitioners from around the world through the Collaborative Higher Education Initiative of GIRC at Tri-C in which faculty and students from a number of colleges and universities will partner with GPPAC regional liaisons to gather information about extant PE/CRE evaluation products and efforts. If you are interested in learning more about the project and/or participating please contact Jennifer Batton at Jennifer.Batton[@]tri-c.edu
New Lesson Plans from The Genocide Education Project
The Genocide Education Project has published a new lesson plan on the Armenian Genocide. The lesson accompanies the award-winning website “Twenty Voices” (20Voices.com) and focuses on the experiences of Armenian Genocide survivors. 20Voices.com, created by Araz Artinian, provides an interactive map of Ottoman Turkey and personal oral histories from survivors representing various provinces of Historic Armenia. The audio clips, photographs, regional music and historical facts about the provinces, all enhance the learning experience of students taking the web-lesson. The lesson plan can be obtained with the CD-ROM of the interactive map, made possible by Ms. Artinian. For more information please visit www.TeachGenocide.com or contact The Genocide Education Project directly at info[@]GenocideEducation.org
Facing History and Ourselves Online Educational Tool
Facing History and Ourselves launched a new online website this week. The interactive site, “Be the Change: Upstanders for Human Rights,” has been developed specifically for thirteen to eighteen-year-olds. Young people interact with the site and each other by posting their thoughts about participation and human rights. In the section, “Student Spotlights”, kids can also read aboutor even nominateother middle and high schoolers their own age who have chosen to participate for positive change. “Be the Change” also offers lists of resources and organizations to help students think more critically about the roles they might play in the world, their responsibilities and obligations towards their communities, and the choices they will make in their own lives. www.facinghistory.org/BeTheChange
New Free Professional and Academic Networking Site in Conflict Resolution, Peace Studies, Human Rights, International Development, Gender, Civil Society Development, and more
This is an invitation to join Peace and Collaborative Development Network ( http://internationalpeaceandconflict.org), a new online initiative to bring together professionals, academics and students involved in Conflict Resolution, Human Rights, International Development, Democratization, Social Entrepreneurship and related fields. The network fosters interaction between individuals and organizations around the world and currently has over 1000 members. The site is a terrific networking tool where you can find local and international partners and practitioners, share resources, and exchange best practices. Discussion topics and personal blogs can also be posted. The site also has a video section where members can access and view videos related to the field.
Beyond Fear: Securing a More Peaceful World Now Available
The Stanley Foundation is pleased to present the latest of its Now Showing event-in-a-box toolkits “Beyond Fear: Securing a More Peaceful World”. The toolkit provides everything groups need to put together an event that will explore US leadership in today’s uncertain world. Each Beyond Fear toolkit features a DVD with a segment entitled, “Djibouti: Building, Not Fighting,” which explores how the US military is approaching counterterrorism in the Horn of Africa. It also includes “Nuclear Nation,” a segment of The News Hour with Jim Lehrer about the recent US-India nuclear deal. In addition to the DVD, the toolkit includes event planner and moderator guides, each chock full of helpful tips and resources for putting together a successful event. Discussion guides are provided to facilitate group discussion on the issues raised in the video. Also, the toolkit includes materials that provide further background on the discussion topics. Sign up now to receive your toolkit: http://www.stanleyfoundation.org/nowshowing-signup.cfm?f=Beyond+Fear
“Women Building Peace: What they do, why it matters” by Sanam Anderlini
Sanam Anderlini has produced a very important book, published today, essential reading “Women Building Peace: What they do, why it matters” (publisher; Lynne Rienner). “Anderlini moves beyond the well-tread path with this measured, well-informed analysis of the impact of women on building and maintaining peace. Her work should be mandatory reading for students, scholars, and practitioners in the fields of conflict resolution and security studies.” - Julie Mertus, American University. This book is available on Amazon.
Bringing A Human Rights Vision to Public Schools: A Training Manual for Organizers
Produced by the National Economic and Social Rights Initiative (NESRI) and Community Asset Development Re-defining Education (CADRE), this manual is a resource for advocates, organizers, community members, parents and youth interested in using human rights as a tool for improving public education in the U.S. Available in English and Spanish on-line in PDF format at http://www.nesri.org/programs/education_manual.html To order hard copies email info[@]nesri.org or call 212-253-1710.
Development of Human Rights Manual for Community Leaders – East Timor
The Provedoria (Ombudsman) for Human Rights and Justice of Timor-Leste (East Timor), with the financial assistance of UNDP/OHCHR Project for the Human Rights Capacity Building of the Provedoria for Human Rights and Justice, will start to develop a human rights manual for community leaders. The aim is to increase community leader’s awareness of human rights so they can be promoter of these values at their communities. Timor-Leste has a local authority structure which includes Suco Chiefs (sucos are like municipalities), village chiefs and a Suco Council (which includes all village chiefs as well as youth and women representatives). We would like to ask the HRE Network for experiences in developing community leaders’ manuals and for information about how to assess them so we can utilize the good experience which has already taken place in the world. If interested in contributing you can contact Barbara Nazareth Oliveira, Project Manager at +6707269063 or email her at hr-education[@]lists.hrea.org
Human Rights Education Associates Compendium of Good Practices
Human Rights Education Associates invites submissions of good practice in the area of human rights education, citizenship education and education for mutual respect and understanding. HREA is assisting the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE/ODIHR), the Council of Europe, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in compiling a compendium of good practices in school systems. Submissions are being accepted for the primary and secondary level schooling sectors in addition to teacher training institutions. Examples from countries outside of this region, unfortunately, cannot be considered. Please visit the compendium website at http://www.hrea.org/compendium in order to learn more about this initiative, to obtain details about submission, and to access the online submission form. Submissions should be made as soon as possible but no later than December 1, 2007.
L’Escola de Cultura Pau (School for a Culture of Peace) – Teacher Resource
L’Escola de Cultura de Pau (School for a Culture of Peace) presents an interactive resource targeted to teachers interested in promoting conflict transformation and peace education at school. The web is based on the questions that have been raised frequently by teachers in our trainings, answering as concretely and positively as possible. The proposals aim is to respond to conflict in the most comprehensive manner: from a micro perspective, promoting positive relations between people, to a macro perspective, a comprehension of the world, through classroom and school structural issues. This way, there are many different issues addressed, as prevention and conflict solving skills among students (and teachers!), the pedagogical method, school rules, how to take advantage of informal spaces, how to increase relationships between teachers, with families, etc. Visit: http://www.escolapau.org/castellano/convivencia/index.htm
“TeachUNICEF”
The US Fund for UNICEF is looking for US teachers to pilot its new “TeachUNICEF” online curriculum materials for grades 6-8 and 9-12. These lesson plans are based on UNICEF’s 2006 “State of the World’s Children Report”. They examine how issues of poverty, armed conflict, child labor and disability impact the lives of children in developing countries, and what UNICEF is doing to overcome these challenges to children’s survival and development. Piloting will take place between Sept. 1 and Nov. 1, 2007. The lesson plans may be completed at any time during that period, depending on your schedule. For more information contact Susan Fountain, Evaluation Outreach, US Fund for UNICEF shfountain[@]msn.com /845-485-3266.
School of Peace Education – Curriculum Materials available online!
We have posted, in the web page of the School of Peace Education, some practical exercises for educating for peace. Most of those activities have been invented or adapted by us during trainings and workshops, so we certify they work! There are by now more than 60 exercises, classified into four main subjects: peace education, conflict education, intercultural learning, and education to understand the world. Those activities can be found, in Spanish, at: http://www.escolapau.org/castellano/programas/dinamicas.htm (activities are posted in Spanish and Catalan, not yet in English, although it will come.)
The Journal of Peacebuilding and Development
The Journal of Peacebuilding and Development (JPD) is a bi-annual peer-reviewed journal aiming to develop theory-practice, and North-South dialogues. The journal examines critical peacebuilding and development topic and questions that challenge our era. To subscribe or receive more information visit: www.journalpeacedev.org
JOBS & INTERNSHIPS
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Temporary Administrator - Peace and Justice Studies Association
The Peace and Justice Studies Association is looking for part-time, temporary administrator to manage our organizational business while we conduct a search for an Executive Director. PJSA is dedicated to bringing together academics, K-12 teachers and grassroots activists to explore alternatives to violence and share visions and strategies for peace-building, social justice, and social change. Because we wish to fill this position as soon as possible, we are asking that people apply IMMEDIATELY. We will begin considering candidates on October 9th, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Candidates may upload a statement of their qualifications and interest, and a resume or CV, to: http://www.peacejusticestudies.org/applyed.php
Development Assistant – Global Exchange
Global Exchange, an international nonprofit human rights organization based in San Francisco, is seeking a Development Assistant to join our fundraising team. This is a supportive position with tremendous growth potential and progressive responsibility. The successful candidate will receive training and operate in all aspects of fundraising, including special events, grants, membership and individual giving. About Global Exchange: Founded in 1988, Global Exchange is an international non-profit research, education and action center dedicated to advocating and working for political, economic and social justice on a global scale. Global Exchange devotes staff time to raising awareness among staff about issues of privilege and diversity and how these issues affect our work environment and our campaigns. We seek candidates who have an openness to engaging these issues and a commitment to incorporating an analysis of privilege and different forms of oppression into their work. This is a full time, salaried position. Compensation is 28,000- 31,000 DOE, with medical and dental benefits. To apply, please send cover letter, a full resume, references, and one additional page concretely answering to the following questions to: Development Assistant Search Committee, Global Exchange, 2017 Mission St. 2nd floor, San Francisco, CA 94110. http://globalexchange.org/getInvolved/jobs.html
Program Coordinator - Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice - Ann Arbor, Michigan
Responsibilities: Program coordination will ensure effective implementation of ICPJ programs, including direct responsibility for specific program areas such as Racial and Economic Justice, Hunger, and Globalization. Specific tasks will include supporting committee meetings, helping organize events, generating advocacy opportunities, and providing skills training for program volunteers, etc. If interested, apply by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 19, 2007. Please indicate if you prefer a full-time position or part time/job shared position. Send cover letter, 1-2 page resume, and three references to: Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice/Personnel Committee/730 Tappan/Ann Arbor, MI 48104/Fax: (734) 663-9458/E-mail: job[@]icpj.net
Student Recruiter - Indianapolis Peace Institute
Background: The Indianapolis Peace Institute operates an off-campus study program in peacebuilding. The student recruiter will pro-actively reach out to students with information about the Institute, ensuring both breadth and depth of student awareness of programs. Participation in a service-learning experience is highly recommended. Ability to travel and have access to own vehicle is required. This job entails a lot of public speaking and one-on-one meetings with students. To be successful, the applicant must feel comfortable and confident in both these settings. Please send a resume, with names and contact details of 3 references, and a brief statement of interest to overdyck[@]indianapolispeaceinstitute.org. Application deadline is Nov. 1, 2007.
Director - Center for the Study of Human Rights – Columbia University
CSHR is hiring a new Director of Capacity Building Programs. The position is to be filled as soon as possible. Applications will accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Reporting to the Associate Director, the incumbent is primarily responsible for all capacity building activities administered by CSHR. The incumbent manages and oversees the planning, organizing, and day-to-day operations of the Human Rights Advocates Program, an annual four-month training program for human rights activists from around the world. The incumbent is also responsible for overseeing the administration of the Third Millennium Foundation Fellowships, which CSHR has been contracted to coordinate. For further job description visit http://www.idealist.org/en/job/245598-220 or http://jobs.columbia.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=107793
Associate or Assistant Professor - Guilford College
Guilford College Peace & Conflict Studies Program seeks applications for a full-time tenure track position, at Associate or Assistant Professor rank to offer courses on global human rights, global development and peace, and nonviolence theories. Applicants should have a strong grounding in the field of Peace and Justice Studies (such as graduate degree in Peace Studies or scholarly participation in the Peace and Justice Studies Association), personal experience in peace activism or social movements, a commitment to approaches to peace activism consistent with Quaker values of nonviolence, and a terminal degree in Peace Studies or a related field. We particularly seek applicants who can present perspectives of indigenous and other marginalized groups. For more information contact Vernie Davis at vdavis[@]guilford.edu
Position with Public Education Project on Reconciliation, Psychological Recovery and the Prevention of Violence in Rwanda, Burundi and the Congo
Radio La Benevolencija / Humanitarian Tools Foundation is a Dutch Humanitarian Media production NGO, running three coordinated educational broadcast campaigns to prevent violence and promote reconciliation, trauma recovery and active bystandership in the African Great Lakes region. The radio programs include educational drama series (“soaps”), journalistic factual programs, and youth programs (see for more details: www.labenevolencija.org). In addition to the media programs, RLB is organizing a grassroots program intended to further the goals of the broadcast campaign. The Regional Psychological Consultant consults to and trains Radio Benevolencija’s production teams in Rwanda, The Democratic Republic Congo and Burundi in the understanding and application of the psychological components and communication messages used within the production of La Benevolencija’s programs and grass roots activities. The regional psychological consultant should serve as an academic presence and on-site support within the region and participate as a trainer, serve as a reviewer of programs. This is a full-time position to be based in the Great Lakes Region of Africa (exact location to be determinedRwanda, Eastern Congo or Burundi). If interested send a letter of interest/application and CV by email to info[@]labenevolencija.org . Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.