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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.

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This comparative study explores the role of parliament in SSG, drawing on country case studies from Colombia, The Gambia, North Macedonia, and Tunisia. The comparative analysis examines cross-national patterns of institutional variation and their efficacy in contributing towards good SSG, all of which have wider applicability in the field of SSG/R and can be used to inform future policy choices and SSR interventions.

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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.

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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 

The Fourth Swiss Peace Conference in Trogen focused on the topic "Peacebuilding and Security. Which paths in politics and education lead there?" The Pestalozzi Children's Village Foundation provided the infrastructure for the event on June 5, 21 and at the same time drew attention to its own anniversary, "75 Years of the Pestalozzi Children's Village Foundation".

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Evita Stavrou (see picture) founded the Fix In Art cultural association ten years ago on the former site of the Fix brewery in Thessaloniki. In addition to the focus on art and culture, cooking and eating together has always played an important role for her association. For a long time, they dreamed of a communal kitchen with a large dining area on the premises. A kitchen open to all, a kitchen for encounters at eye level.

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This July, Peace Watch Switzerland celebrates its 20th anniversary. We have been making a small but effective contribution to the protection of human rights for 20 years. Over 600 volunteers have been sent to a total of six countries for assignments ranging from three months to two years. There they accompany and support individuals, groups and organizations that are threatened and criminalized because of their commitment to the rights to which they are entitled.

Support PWS in its crowdfunding now!

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We are observing an increase in countries that are adopting a feminist foreign policy (FFP). Sweden, France and Mexico have launched their FFP programs in 2014, 2019 and 2020, while Canada is bound to announce its FFP strategy this year. At this roundtable KOFF brings together official representatives from these countries, Swiss administration and from civil society organizations to address questions such as: What is a feminist foreign policy? What do these policies entail and how do they relate to the Women, Peace and Security agenda?

June 22, 9.30am-12pm

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Registration for the FORUM Ilanzer Sommer is now open. It will take place from August 12 to 14, 2021 at the Ilanz Monastery. The FORUM is dedicated to the core topic of peace culture in communities, schools and the media public and consists of three parallel tracks. In the morning, all three tracks offer space for knowledge transfer, for meeting and networking, and for inspiration on a personal and professional level. The afternoons are set up for personal competence enhancement in the form of selectable ateliers. In addition, a rich cultural program with film, music and stimulating conversations awaits you.

register here | program