Peace infrastructures are gaining terrain as a means to bring about structural transformation and coordination for all actors invested in building sustainable peace. In this regard, ACCORD Training Unit intern Maya Doyon-Hanson delivered a presentation during an Internal Staff Seminar on 20 June 2013 at ACCORD’s offices in Durban.
Unpacking the theory and practice of peace infrastructures, Doyon-Hanson’s presentation focused on what peace infrastructures include as well as their aspired purpose. The presentation also drew examples of existing peace infrastructures and analysed how these may be practically applied in different situations, without disregarding the challenges.
As a fresh concept in the dynamics of peacebuilding, peace infrastructures are gaining terrain as a means to bring about structural transformation and coordination for all actors invested in building sustainable peace. The notion is still being conceptualised and tried and, as the United Nations, peace practitioners and academics alike are involved in its development, it is an ideal time to learn from what is being done and debated. Doyon-Hanson’s presentation provided an opportunity for open dialogue and learning that empowered ACCORD staff in their different specialised fields.
Keeping abreast of a variety of peace- and conflict-related issues, knowledge sharing among ACCORD staff is of great importance to the institution. Therefore, regular internal staff seminars are essential in providing a platform for learning and dialogue.
