Placing peace at the heart of action: our new report on peacebuilding in humanitarian and development efforts

What do we really mean by “peacebuilding”? The data, projects and voices collected in our research show that peace is not an end point. It is a daily process, shaped alongside communities through trust, strong relationships and attentive listening.

In a world shaped by fragility, conflict and protracted crises, the word peace often risks losing its meaning, as if it were a distant goal to be considered only once emergencies have passed. Yet this perspective tends to result in top-down interventions that fail to respond to the real needs of communities facing crises on a daily basis.

In reality, peace is neither a goal to be achieved nor a final outcome. It is a daily practice that requires time, collaboration and sustained work on relationships, because lasting change can only take root where there is mutual trust, strong social ties and institutions that are able to listen and respond.

For this reason, it is essential to look beyond the objectives of interventions and focus on the people involved. Those most affected by crises are often women, children and young people. They make up the majority of the world’s population and, as shown by our experience and by studies such as the Her Future at Risk series—drawing on examples from Afghanistan and Ukraine—they face a true “crisis within the crisis”. They are the first to be excluded, to lose access to essential services and to find themselves in contexts where their voices go unheard, while resources become increasingly scarce.

Global data clearly point to the urgency of action:

Against this backdrop, the participation of women, children and young people—consistent with the international Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agendas, which promote their involvement in peace processes and public decision-making—is central to making interventions more effective and sustainable. Women, children and young people are not only among those most affected by crises; they are also key agents of change, with the capacity to contribute actively to peacebuilding within their communities.

These and many other issues are explored in our latest study, “The ‘P’ in Practice: Field Evidence on Operationalising Conflict Sensitivity, WPS and YPS across the HDP Nexus”, which examines how the peace dimension can be effectively integrated into humanitarian and development interventions. The research draws on the so-called Humanitarian–Development–Peace (HDP) Nexus approach, a way of working that connects three areas often treated separately: emergency response, development action and peacebuilding initiatives. The underlying idea is that these three dimensions should not be addressed in isolation, but in a coordinated manner, in order to reduce needs, risks and vulnerabilities over the long term and to strengthen the capacity of local communities to face ongoing challenges. From this perspective, peace is not something to be considered only at a later stage, but a core element to be integrated from the outset, alongside humanitarian and development efforts.

For WeWorld, peace is not simply the absence of armed conflict, but a concrete condition that enables people to live with dignity, access their rights and manage tensions without resorting to violence. It is something that is built through relationships, fair institutions, inclusive participation and strong social bonds, which together foster stability, resilience and well-being.

In our work, five core pillars guide the way we collaborate with communities to support these processes:

Our research shows that gender inequalities have a tangible impact on the lives of individuals and communities. This is why our interventions go beyond addressing immediate needs and also seek to challenge the social norms and practices that restrict the autonomy, safety and participation based on gender.

These norms shape, for example:

Addressing these issues also means tackling some of the root causes of conflict.

Integrating this perspective within the Humanitarian–Development–Peace Nexus involves adopting practices that make interventions fairer and safer.

In humanitarian emergencies:

In development programmes:

In peacebuilding processes:

Working across these areas makes it possible to link humanitarian response, development and peacebuilding, addressing both the impacts and the underlying causes of inequality.

The active participation of children and young people is essential to making interventions inclusive and capable of driving meaningful change. For WeWorld, this means engaging them in a meaningful way throughout all stages of projects, recognising both their right to the future and their ability to contribute to decisions that affect their lives.

In humanitarian emergencies:

In development programmes:

In peacebuilding processes:

In this way, participation becomes a driver of change, contributing to the development of safer, more inclusive and more resilient communities.

In the research, these principles are examined in practice through the analysis of projects in different contexts. Field experience shows how approaches to peace, youth participation and gender equality are translated into everyday reality, highlighting stories, challenges and changes within the communities involved.

In Benin, the MEDIA-B project worked with journalists to promote more responsible reporting on gender issues and conflict. At the same time, it engaged youth and women’s groups in activities that foster dialogue, critical thinking and participation in civic life. Alongside training, many young people developed skills in media literacy and safe communication. Community groups were also established, creating spaces for discussion and supporting the peaceful management of potential tensions.

One significant outcome was the revision of the Media Code of Ethics, developed together with media professionals to promote more responsible standards tailored to the local context. Through collaboration with community radio stations and Community Communication Committees—groups of citizens who monitor information and help counter harmful content—MEDIA-B contributed to reducing tensions, strengthening trust between communities and institutions, and making information channels more transparent and reliable.

“During the training sessions, we focused extensively on the definitions of incitement to violence and hate speech, as well as instances of disinformation, misinformation and malinformation. The goal was to enable people to clearly understand when they are experiencing such phenomena, and when we ourselves unwittingly produce them as a result of the stereotypes present in our culture. Particular attention was also given to aspects related to gender communication. Once it becomes clear to everyone what mistakes we often make without even being fully aware of them, it becomes easier to understand the reasons and preconceptions of others. Understanding others, those who are different from us, is the first step towards building acceptance and therefore a peaceful environment.” – Andrea Malnati, Project Manager at the Pavia Observatory (WeWorld partner in the MEDIA-B project)

Even in high-income countries, participation cannot be taken for granted and remains a significant challenge. In Italy, WeWorld’s Youth Participation Programme has supported young people who are often under-represented to find their place in local, national and European decision-making processes, showing that issues affecting women and young people matter everywhere.

To achieve this, the programme uses language and tools that resonate with young people, including theatre, storytelling and podcasts, which help to address complex topics in an accessible and engaging way. These are complemented by participation pathways that start with dialogue at city level and extend to European institutions, made possible through a broad network bringing together schools, associations, municipalities, universities and cultural organisations. Digital tools also play a key role, enabling young people from different areas to exchange ideas and collaborate, overcoming geographical and economic barriers.

Over time, this work has involved tens of thousands of young people, trained teachers and practitioners on global citizenship, climate justice and gender equality, and contributed to the emergence of youth networks that are active beyond national borders. It is a journey that helps young people not only to better understand the world, but above all to become active agents of the change they want to see.

“I felt listened to, and I honestly didn’t expect it. I was surprised by the Membersof the European Parliament’s engagement, because I had anticipated a hint of indifference—like when you try to talk to an adult in everyday life. Instead, they were consistently active and interested, which I really appreciated.” – Participant in the My Participation Revolution project

“The activist conversation during the training was incredibly stimulating. I had the chance to speak directly with representatives from local public administration and politics who work daily on participatory processes. On the one hand, there are models and procedures; on the other, there is a growing and disruptive wave of activism on social and climate justice—especially among young people who see climate change as directly linked to their future, to intergenerational justice, to the environment, to the economy and to employment. This raises important questions about how to connect means and goals, politics and administration, policymakers and citizens—and about how good participation can help rebuild trust between them, leading to balanced decisions that serve the common good.” — Participant in the second edition of the Be A Change Maker project

In Lebanon, the Power of Youth project has created spaces where young people—including refugees—and women can meet, connect and make their voices heard. Through art, creativity and the sharing of lived experiences, the project helps to foster dialogue between different communities and generations in a context marked by deep divisions.

Young people are at the centre of this process: they design and lead the activities themselves, with the necessary support to turn ideas into concrete action within their communities. Particular attention is given to young women and more marginalised groups, to ensure that these spaces are genuinely inclusive and safe.

Within the first few months, Power of Youth has strengthened links between youth organisations in Beirut and Tripoli, increased the participation of young women, and created new opportunities for dialogue between communities and local institutions. Cultural content produced by young people has also helped to counter harmful and divisive narratives. Although the project is still in its early stages, it is already demonstrating how building bridges of dialogue and trust can make a real difference, strengthening social cohesion and opening up new pathways for change.

“In Lebanon’s fragmented and highly politicised context, credibility and neutrality are essential; adopting a conflict-sensitive, inclusive, and transparent approach is therefore crucial for reducing perceptions of inequality and reinforcing trust.” – Valeria Ongaro, Coordinator of the Power of Youth Project

“During recent spikes in energy costs, smallholder farmers in Akkar stopped competing for limited resources and instead formed communal solar-sharing clusters. These groups brought together Lebanese landowners, Syrian workers, and local youth to manage shared irrigation and power points. By focusing on the structural challenge of energy poverty, they were able to bypass the sectarian and nationalistic tensions that are often exploited by political gatekeepers to keep communities divided.” – Layal Boustany, Executive Director of the Mada Association

In Mozambique, the Northern Crisis Recovery Project (NCRP) worked to strengthen Peace Committees and volunteer networks, actively engaging women and young people in conflict prevention. The project is rooted in the communities themselves and uses simple, accessible forms of expression—such as theatre, music and sport—to talk about peace, create opportunities for interaction and involve those who are often left on the margins.

Young people and women have taken on a central role, leading cultural activities, facilitating dialogue and contributing directly to the decisions made by the Committees. At the same time, the project has helped to reopen intergenerational dialogue, creating spaces where young people and elders can work together, share experiences and overcome long-standing divisions.

This approach has strengthened ties between host communities and displaced people, improving cooperation and the ability to address tensions in a peaceful way. It is a community-led effort that leaves behind skills, relationships and trust, enabling communities to continue building peace well beyond the lifetime of the project.

“Community-led peace structures, participatory conflict analysis, gender- and youth-transformative approaches, and cultural and artistic methodologies proved adaptable, locally owned, cost-effective, and highly effective in building trust and social cohesion across diverse contexts. At the same time, the project faced challenges, such as working in volatile environments, maintaining participation amid insecurity, and managing different expectations. These challenges highlighted the importance of adaptive planning, flexibility, and strong reliance on local actors. The key lesson learned is the value of conti nuous context analysis, adaptive management, and investing in relationships as a strategic asset.” – Aneta Jelinkova, Country Representative for WeWorld in Mozambique

“In our community, poverty, limited services, and land and family conflicts affect everyone, but young people and women are hit hardest. Youth face high unemployment and few opportunities, while women and children are exposed to domestic violence. WeWorld has helped by creating safe spaces for dialogue, training youth and women in leadership, and promoting cultural and sports activities that bring people together.” – Raibo Chafim, Government Focal Point for Chiúre District

Also in East Africa, along the Swahili Coast between Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique, the Kujenga Amani Pamoja (KAP) project has created space for young women and men to play an active role in peacebuilding. Through mediation, artistic activities and active citizenship initiatives, young people have become key reference points within their communities, working alongside local authorities and traditional leaders to address tensions.

Using photography, theatre, art and media, the project has created accessible opportunities for dialogue open to everyone. These spaces have helped bring young people and adults closer together, improved engagement with security actors, and involved schools, journalists and local organisations in strengthening social cohesion.

Thanks to this approach, KAP has supported numerous youth-led initiatives, facilitated public dialogues and strengthened trust between different groups. It has also enhanced collaboration with institutions and helped communities jointly address conflicts related to resources and the environment. A model that works because it brings together creativity, participation and a deep understanding of the local context.

“Across our activities, we’ve seen real signs of change. Young people who took part in looting have sat down with business owners, and even helped with compensation. In places like Bongwe, Mbuawani and Mkwakwani, people can now move freely again after community peace actors brought different groups to the table. Former rival gangs in Ukunda are working side by side on environmental projects, and during our Intergenerational Dialogues, elders have openly recognised the positive role of youth. Women mediators are helping families resolve disputes, easing tensions at home, and CPAs have stepped in to stop violent clashes between schools in Munje-Kingwede. All these moments show that trust, inclusion and shared responsibility are growing in our communities.” — Joseph Mwangi Karinga, Stretchers Youth Organisation (Kenya)

“A key insight concerns the value of the bottom-up, youth-centred methodology. Through participatory conflict analyses and youth-led dialogues and initiatives, this approach proved effective not only in addressing immediate tensions but also in strengthening trust, inclusion, understanding and collaboration across community groups, including local authorities and security actors.” – Daniela Riva, Coordinator of the KAP Project

Finally, in Ukraine, the Protect Kharkiv project worked to support women, children and young people in a conflict-affected context, demonstrating that inclusion and participation are possible even in the most challenging circumstances. Through psychosocial support activities, water, sanitation and hygiene interventions, and community-led peacebuilding initiatives, the project helped communities regain spaces of safety and trust.

Alongside immediate assistance—such as mobile psychosocial services and hygiene kits, designed in particular to meet the needs of women and girls—Protect Kharkiv supported local initiatives that enabled schools and neighbourhoods to create their own safe spaces and activities. These became places where people could meet, receive support, learn and rebuild relationships, even in an emergency setting.

Through these initiatives, the project strengthened ties between families, improved access to support services and fostered more inclusive environments, including for people with special educational needs. The true strength of Protect Kharkiv lay in placing tools, resources and decision-making power in the hands of communities themselves, allowing change to continue well beyond the duration of the intervention.

“Young people and women are already contributing as volunteers, facilitators, and community organisers. There is strong potential to further involve them through leadership training, civic initiatives, peer-to-peer support, and income-generating opportunities that can strengthen both individual agency and overall social cohesion.” — Kolisnyk Valeriia, Peaceful Heaven of Kharkhiv

“The environment was extremely fragile and politically sensitive, and even speaking about “conflict” or “peace” demanded caution and thoughtful framing. A key lesson was the need to use language that resonates locally—such as social cohesion, community tensions, access to resources, or inclusion—while relying on conflict-sensitive processes to guide the work and avoiding terminology that might be perceived as politicised. This helped ensure that peacebuilding entry points remained both respectful and effective.” – Lorenzo Giuliani, Peacebuilding Specialist at WeWorld

This study was developed to contribute to a global conversation on issues that are more urgent than ever. In a time marked by crises and conflict, peace does not emerge on its own: it requires daily choices, close attention to context, and collaboration among a wide range of actors.

The research highlights several concrete directions, including strengthening community participation, integrating a gender perspective, and meaningfully engaging younger generations. However, the impact of these recommendations depends on the ability to put them into practice collectively, across the diverse contexts in which interventions take place. In this landscape, international cooperation continues to play a vital role. Even as the system faces growing pressure and profound transformation, it is through joint efforts among institutions, organisations, and local communities that effective responses can be supported and lasting pathways to peace can be built.

Peace requires time, continuity, and mutual trust. It is not the result of the actions of a single actor, but of a shared commitment that places people and relationships at its centre. It is within this collaborative space that field experience can be translated into tangible and lasting change.