Global Peacebuilders is an international network of conflict resolution, conflict transformation and peacebuilding initiatives. By connecting organisations, researchers, academics and individual practitioners, we offer a solid platform for learning, exchange of best practice and development of international partnerships for reconciliation and peacebuilding.

We believe that peacebuilding is an ongoing process, made up of a variety of activities towards the creation and maintenance of stable and peaceful communities. Global Peacebuilders represents a resource for people and organisations involved in activities that build stability, trust, justice and reconciliation, and which transform conflict into stable aspirations for the future.

Our background

Global Peacebuilders is rooted in the context of the Northern Ireland peace process. As we move away from decades of violence towards building the institutions, structures and opportunities for sustainable peace, the practice and experience of peacebuilding in Northern Ireland has never been more significant.

Global Peacebuilders seeks not only to connect the important work that has gone into transforming the conflict in Northern Ireland with peacebuilders carrying out similar work internationally, but also aims to help create a place where peacebuilders large and small, formal and informal, community-based or government-led, can ‘shout from the rooftops’ their successes, their lessons learned and key initiatives.

We believe that while every conflict across the world is distinct, the underlying causes are often similar, and there is much to be gained by building bridges between practitioners and sharing in the positive work and successes that have taken place. Global Peacebuilders offers an opportunity for organisations to learn from one another and showcase their contributions towards creating sustainable peace in their communities.

Who manages Global Peacebuilders?

Springboard Opportunities is a leading provider of community peace and reconciliation programmes in Belfast, with significant experience in project management, and a unique cross-border management structure encompassing leaders of principal public and community organisations.

Established in 1992, Springboard offers integrated programmes that promote mutual understanding and enhance capacity.  Enshrined within clear values and a person centred ethos, Springboard has provided unique opportunities for over 3500 people to make their own personal journey of positive change.

Key delivery mechanisms include the Wider Horizons initiative where young adults from Ireland, north and south, jointly participate in local and international programmes that promote an appreciation of diversity, build capacity through personal and professional development and provide understanding of global citizenship. The Tell  It Like It is project which involved the communities of Shankill, West Belfast in Northern Ireland and Manorhamilton in Leitrim built understanding through cultural exchanges using visual, interactive and written materials leading to project outputs of an exhibition, website and video production. The Urban Service programme provided cross-community opportunities for young adults to develop skills and contribute to social change by participating in a 6- month public service activity.

Springboard's approach is centred on key principles of personal and social education, equity, diversity and interdependence and community building.  We have exceptional outcomes, as many participants have a stronger anti-discriminatory viewpoint, increased empathy that results in a firm ethic of social responsibility and capacity to develop relationships within a local and global context.

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