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Add to Preferred SourcesThis International Day of Living Together in Peace, Islamic Relief continues vital work to build social cohesion and resilience.
Islamic Relief’s conflict prevention and peacebuilding programme embodies the principles of promoting peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding, and solidarity that this day promotes internationally.
Linked strongly to the UN’s 2030 sustainable development agenda which emphasises the importance of “peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development”, IR’s work is building social cohesion and improving the resilience of local communities in four countries across Africa, South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Each project is tailored to the unique and individual needs of the communities the organizations serves.
Supporting the national peace process in the Philippines
Living together in peace and harmony is a long-term process. In the Philippines, Islamic Relief is working to support the national peace process, engaging the Office of the Presidential Adviser for the Peace Process to ensure that the work provides peace dividends in the region. Education and awareness-raising are critical.
IR led community consultations with government representatives to highlight progress in the peace process, and are keeping local communities informed about the government transition in the region.
Promoting dialogue through peace councils in Kenya
In Mandera, close to Kenya’s border with Somalia, the security situation has posed challenges for communities. Islamic Relief is building peace and supporting the government’s conflict management efforts. The team has held dialogues between the community, local peace groups and city government.
Recently, Islamic Relief set up eight youth and women peace councils in collaboration with the regional authorities. They provide structured platforms for dialogue on issues affecting the community and ensure no one is left behind.
Addressing climate change to boost resilience and cohesion in Pakistan
Efforts to build community resilience and social cohesion must address the impacts of climate change which are being felt at the local level.
In Pakistan, IR is addressing climate-related issues, particularly freshwater availability. Islamic Relief is engaging local government and community elders, and supporting local social structures to open valuable channels of communication.
It is also investing in local water infrastructure to improve water supply and reinforcing this with vocational support which is unlocking livelihoods and economic opportunities for young people.
Shaping community action plans and opportunities for young people in Indonesia
In line with the UN’s ‘Youth 2030’ strategy, Islamic Relief is supporting youth empowerment initiatives in Indonesia, offering training and skills development to boost local livelihoods. Dialogue forums include young people, forging a positive relationship between young people who once felt marginalised and the wider community.
The Islamic Relief programme is set to complete in 2021 and combines approaches to dialogue, cooperation, development and humanitarian action.
Original source: Islamic Relief
Published on 15 May 2019