On November 19th, Dutch peacebuilding organizations convened for an in-depth roundtable discussion, as part of the EPLO’s main project, the Civil Society Dialogue Network, on the political context for peacebuilding with the current Dutch Government and its engagement with the EU. In the evening, EPLO, Mercy Corps, PAX and The Hague Humanity Hub hosted a panel conversation reflecting on the role of peacebuilding. Hosted at The Hague Humanity Hub, this event brought together voices from government, civil society, and international organizations to tackle the challenges and opportunities of peacebuilding.
Director of EPLO (European Peacebuilding Liaison Office), Sonya Reines-Djivanides, moderated a panel discussion addressing the question of what it means to foster “a culture of peace”. The panel speakers were Marit Maij (European Parliament, Partij van de Arbeid), Lex Gerts (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Netherlands), Rolien Sasse (PAX) and Ted Holmquist (Mercy Corps).
A Culture of Peace is an Effort for Everyone
One of the key takeaways from the discussion was that peacebuilding needs more than efforts from peacebuilding organizations or government institutions, there is a role for everyone. As Rolien Sasse aptly put it, “Peacebuilding is not just for peace organizations. It’s something everyone can contribute to.” Whether through journalism, politics, business, or civil society, there is a role for everyone in fostering peace.
We must work cross-sectoral, go outside of our own bubble.
“We must work cross-sectoral, go outside of our own bubble,” Sonya Reines-Djivanides rightly states. Peacebuilding is an effort for everyone, this is why the conversation must be broadened. As a journalist, for example, you also play a part in the culture of peace. Sonya Reines-Djivanides continues: “What does peace look like? For many, the answer varies, but the consensus is clear: peace must be co-created through dialogue, mutual respect and understanding of diverse perspectives and voices from different sectors.”
Language and Inclusivity Matter
A critical reflection from the audience underscored the significance of language in peacebuilding narratives. Words like “third world” or “development aid” carry historical and political weight, often perpetuating systemic inequalities. “Language matters. We must avoid reinforcing simple stories,” Rolien Sasse.
Ted Holmquist emphasized the importance of building trust and cohesion–not just horizontally among communities but also vertically between citizens and the state. This requires integrating peace principles into everyday professions and linking peacebuilding to tangible outcomes, such as economic opportunities and social cohesion projects.
Structural Inequalities within Peacebuilding
Panelists also explored the role of international actors, particularly the EU and Dutch government, in addressing systemic causes of conflict. Lex Gerts called for a long-term, integrated approach that focuses on justice, inclusion and addressing structural inequalities. However, as several attendees highlighted, the Global North must critically examine its own role in perpetuating these inequalities. Peacebuilding demands not only solidarity but also a willingness to challenge entrenched systems of power.
Other stories, misinformed and disinformed, are being told – that needs to be countered.
Marit Maij adds that in peacebuilding work we need to be aware of the growing global anti-gender movement. “The anti-gender movement is interconnected and has a lot of money. It moves us to change the discourse. We don’t talk about gender anymore, we talk about women’s rights. We have to be aware of that and we have to counter it.” She calls on everyone to tell their stories, they matter. Other stories, misinformed and disinformed, are being told – that needs to be countered.
From civil society organizations and policymakers to journalists, a collective effort is crucial to create sustainable peace.
A Call to Action: Broaden the Conversation and Break the Bubble
This event made one message abundantly clear: peacebuilding is everyone’s effort and the conversation must extend beyond traditional bubbles, aldermen Mariëlle Vavier points out in her closing words. From civil society organizations and policymakers to journalists. A collective effort is crucial to create sustainable peace.
At The Hague Humanity Hub, we are proud to be part in facilitating such dialogues together with the community. As a platform that connects diverse actors, we believe in the power of collaboration to amplify impact. Let’s commit to breaking out of our echo chambers and continue the conversation on peacebuilding by broadening it.
