Rotary International has partnered with the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) to promote the concept of Positive Peace. This partnership, established in 2017, seeks to build resilient societies through a structured and holistic approach. We are excited to share that the CNY region has taken a significant step by establishing a dedicated Peace subcommittee. As part of this initiative, we are proud to introduce the Rotary Positive Peace Academy.
By completing the Rotary Positive Peace Academy, individuals gain knowledge to become peacebuilders in their communities. This initiative underscores Rotary's commitment to fostering a culture of peace and collaboration, aligning with its mission to promote goodwill and understanding across borders.
The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) is a globally recognized think tank dedicated to research on peace and its economic impact. Founded in 2007 by Australian IT entrepreneur Steve Killelea, the IEP has established itself as a non-partisan organization that creates innovative models to understand and measure peace. Since its inception, the IEP has grown its international presence with offices around the world. Its research has had a significant impact, influencing policymaking and peacebuilding initiatives globally. The IEP's work is recognized for its rigor and relevance, providing valuable insights that help shape a more peaceful and prosperous world.
To understand the significance of the Rotary and IEP partnership we need to understand the framework created by IEP to comprehend peace more effectively. The IEP differentiates between two types: positive peace and negative peace. Negative peace is the absence of violence or fear of violence, essentially a state where conflict is either nonexistent or suppressed. On the other hand, positive peace is a broader and more holistic concept. It encompasses the attitudes, institutions, and structures that create and sustain peaceful societies. Positive peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of the conditions that lead to sustainable peace and development.
Positive peace emphasizes several critical areas such as ecological health, individual well-being, social equity, and economic growth. Societies that invest in positive peace tend to have better environmental policies, higher levels of social trust, and more robust economic performance. This form of peace fosters a virtuous cycle where peace and prosperity reinforce each other.
The partnership between Rotary and the IEP represents a powerful collaboration aimed at creating Positive Peace. By aligning Rotary's seven areas of focus with the IEP's eight pillars of Positive Peace, they are working towards a common goal of a more peaceful and just world. Through a combination of grassroots efforts, global research, and a shared commitment to human dignity, Rotary and the IEP are paving the way for a future where peace is not just a distant ideal but a tangible reality.
Members can enhance their understanding of peacebuilding and apply these principles in their communities, fostering a culture of peace and collaboration. If you are interested in exploring further and implementing the principles of Positive Peace in your own community or club, you can access this program at https://www.positivepeace.academy/.