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How does Switzerland advocate for peace? Who determines peace policy? What has changed in recent years? What priorities should Switzerland set in its future peace policy in the future? And how does the Swiss candidature for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council play into this?

These and other questions came up at a KOFF Roundtable in May 2021 - the discussion is reflected and summarized in this synthesis.

read the synthesis

When addressing migration in peacebuilding, not only people on the move are relevant, but also people who are affected by some sort of negative migration outcome or involuntary immobility. There is great need for regular migration routes, for a broadened ability to migrate, and for a decriminalization of migration in general.

This was discussed in a KOFF Master Class back in February 2021. The conversations, insights, and concepts that were brought up during the Master Class, are critically reflected in this article.

Read the critical reflection

The fourth episode of the KOFF Ton-Träger sheds light on the promotion of a culture of nonviolence and peace (CNV&P) during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Three peacebuilding experts are discussing the concept of CNV&P, its relevance for their peacebuilding work, and the challenges and opportunities arising from the pandemic for their engagement at the community and multilateral level as well as in the digital sphere.

listen to the podcast

East Africa is rich in resources and very diverse, but it is still adversely affected by conflicts and instability. Inter-communal and pastoral conflicts, cross-border rebel insurgencies, or violent security-force repression are a reality for several East African countries. Nevertheless, local civil society organizations and their Swiss-based partners are committed to building on the potential for peace that the region has to offer.

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This policy brief summarizes the findings of a joint learning process on peacebuilding and migration, facilitated by KOFF – the Swiss Platform for Peacebuilding, and the resulting web toolbox on migration in peacebuilding. It highlights the relevance of a systematic and strategic engagement with migration in peacebuilding, showcases some practical examples and points to areas that need further investment and attention from the peace policy sector.

policy brief | web-toolbox 

Many past events show that security forces' responses to violence are often neither effective nor appropriate. In this issue of à propos, KOFF member organizations provide us with insights into cultures of peace and nonviolence. Some focus on social cohesion and inclusion, some advocate for the protection of human rights or the advancement of peace education, and others protect those who advocate.

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cfd, PWAG and KOFF contribute to the Swiss National Action Plan on resolution 1325 by gathering valuable information among Swiss civil society & their partners on women's participation in peace processes as they did in an interview on a project in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Read our latest interview featuring Ivona Erdeljac, Program Director of Amica Educa (BiH), and Lea Breitner, Program Officer Eastern and Southern Europe at cfd. Learn more

Under what circumstances is the COVID-19 pandemic a conflict trigger or a peace factor? What are the security and peacebuilding implications of a health crisis on Security Sector Governance? Are healthcare actors sufficiently trusted and recognized? Almost a year after the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic, the KOFF organizations shared their experience and perspectives on the interlinkages between health and peace.

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It's the halfway mark of the Geneva Peace Week 2020. KOFF created a podcast concerning the migration-peace nexus in collaboration with DCAF - Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance. Furthermore, KOFF is holding a live side event - the learning meeting "Making it work: migration in peace policy & practice" - to discuss the newly published toolbox (2020/11/05, 10.15am - 12.15pm, online). 

listen to the podcast | sign up for the learning meeting | learn more

Over the last decade, digital technologies have shown their potential in easing the work of peacebuilding professionals. While they can be used to raise awareness of peaceful causes, connect people, and foster exchanges, their downsides are by no means insignificant. Hate speech, disinformation, and polarization in conflict settings tend to exacerbate division and violence.

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