"On this International Day, let us promise to make peace not just a priority, but a passion. Let us pledge to do more, wherever we are in whatever way we can, to make every day a day of peace." UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, International Day of Peace, 21 September, 2007.
Few of the Commonwealth's 54 member nations have not been scarred, at some point in their history, by polarisation, prejudice and violence. For those that are emerging from conflict or remain fragile, paths to peace lie in increased respect and tolerance for diverse identities, faiths and ethnicities.
Much attention is given in the Commonwealth to tackling crises at state level, but there is also a need to promote the role that the civil sphere plays in creating cohesive societies. Our work recognises that small-scale initiatives by individuals can have a huge impact in preventing conflict or healing its wounds.
Through our grant making, we partner with civil society organisations that campaign against extremism and intolerance. Funding the activities of groups and individuals committed to peace, we create spaces for inter-faith and inter-communal dialogue at regional conferences and symposiums.
Drawing on our expertise in cultural policy and track record in bringing creative people together, we seek the increasing involvement of film, theatre and other media to stimulate understanding, co-operation and reconciliation among Commonwealth people.