peacepark - PEACE

Leadership for Peace

The worldwide interest in building a Rotarian peace coalition is significant and always growing. The need for a vehicle to provide centralized resources to Rotarians to plan and implement large-scale, community development and humanitarian service projects in the areas of war prevention, peacebuilding, peacekeeping and peacemaking is apparent. As the international peace system is continually strengthening, the time is right for further Rotarian leadership and involvement on peace issues.

Globally, every community has a role to play in advancing world understanding, tolerance, empathy, goodwill and peace.

Rotary, in its pursuit of peace, focuses on the "8 Pillars of Positive Peace," which are key factors that contribute to stable, peaceful societies. Here's a breakdown of the 8 Pillars of Positive Peace as outlined by Rotary and the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP):

Well-functioning government:
A stable and effective government is essential for maintaining order and providing for the needs of its citizens.
Sound business environment:
A thriving economy with opportunities for growth and investment contributes to overall stability and prosperity.
Equitable distribution of resources:
Ensuring that resources are distributed fairly and accessibly helps to reduce inequality and conflict.
Acceptance of the rights of others:
Respect for human rights and the inclusion of diverse perspectives are crucial for creating peaceful and just societies.
Good relations with neighbors:
Fostering positive relationships between communities and countries helps to prevent conflict and promotes cooperation.
Free flow of information:
Open and transparent communication is vital for informed decision-making and preventing the spread of misinformation.
High levels of human capital:
Investing in education, skills, and healthcare empowers individuals and strengthens communities.
Low levels of corruption:
Combating corruption is essential for ensuring that resources are used effectively and that the rule of law is respected.

Peace research pioneer Johan Galtung distinguished two types of peace:

Negative Peace is

defined by the absence of war and violence, and does not capture a society’s tendencies towards stability and harmony.

Positive Peace is:

Defined by a more lasting peace
Built on sustainable investments in economic and societal aspects that foster peace
Can be used to gauge the resilience of a society
Ability to absorb shocks without falling into conflict

The Four-Way Test is a nonpartisan and nonsectarian ethical guide for Rotarians to use for their personal and professional relationships. The test has been translated into more than 100 languages, and Rotarians recite it at club meetings:
Of the things we think, say or do:

Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?