International Alert, British Council and the Cambridge Peace and Education Research Group would like to invite you to the launch (this link will open in a new window) of the report, 'Peace Education in Formal Schools: Why is it important and how can it be done?’ on Wednesday 27 January 2021 at 3.30pm to 5.30pm (GMT).

Alongside researchers and practitioners in peace education, this event will explore the findings of the paper and discuss what peace education in schools looks like, its potential impact and how it might be realised in practice within various conflict-affected contexts.

Fundamentally, peace education aims to counter a culture of war by promoting a culture of peace. It challenges the assumption that violence is innate to the human condition and seeks to equip students with the capacity to resolve conflict without recourse to violence. Peace education aspires to enable students to become responsible citizens who are open to differences, capable of empathy and solidarity, both within and across geographic borders and social groups, and who are able to deconstruct the foundations of violence and to take action to advance the prospects of peace. After all, formal schools not only provide knowledge and skills, but they also shape social and cultural values, norms and attitudes.

Advancing peace education within a formal school context requires a multifaceted approach and process. The report provides practical recommendations for educations, peacebuilders and policy makers on how this can be achieved. Join us to find out more by registering for the event below.