By the Rotary Action Group for Peace
Every year, on 21 September, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Peace, a day dedicated to strengthening the values of peace and non-violence as declared by the United Nations General Assembly. As we mark this day, we also find ourselves at the midpoint of our journey toward achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which provide a roadmap towards a more peaceful world by addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and peace and justice. Our collective task is to work together to accomplish these goals by 2030, and the Rotary community stands at the forefront of these efforts, with the Rotary Action Group for Peace (RAGFP) playing a vital role.
Who we are: Rotary Action Group for Peace
The Rotary Action Group for Peace is a global network of committed Rotarians, Rotaractors, Rotary Peace Fellows, Rotary family, program alumni, and friends of Rotary working together for peace. We serve as a resource to Rotarians, Rotaractors, clubs, and districts worldwide by supporting their peacebuilding efforts. We empower communities to convene, collaborate, and unite for peace action. The Rotary Action Group for Peace engages, educates, and empowers the Rotary community through strategic programs that inspire effective peace action.
Our newest peace initiative: Positive Peace RYLA
We are thrilled to introduce a new, engaging learning initiative aimed at young people to encourage their involvement in peacebuilding: Positive Peace RYLA. This online leadership retreat is designed for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) alumni. Developed in collaboration with the Institute for Economics and Peace, this program takes RYLA alumni and other proven leaders on a transformative journey into the world of peacemaking. Attendees collaborate in a massive cooperative game that teaches essential peacebuilding skills. Positive Peace RYLA is a fully online, synchronous program that encourages networking. While currently available to alumni and other proven leaders in the United States and Europe, plans are in place to expand it to students in other countries.
Take action for peace
You can play an active role in contributing to peace and Rotary’s efforts to achieve these global goals. Here are some ideas:
- Support Positive Peace RYLA and give students a chance to expand their understanding of peacebuilding and leadership skills.
- USA: If you know RYLA alumni between the ages of 17-21, have them apply now for the January 2024 program.Europe: If you know students with proven leadership skills between the ages of 14-17, have them apply now for the March 2024 program.
- Sponsor scholarships for students participating in the Positive Peace RYLA.
- Support Rotary’s peace programs. Donate to Rotary’s peace initiatives, volunteer your time and expertise to contribute to peacebuilding programs and projects, or recruit local peace and development leaders to apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship.
- Promote education for peace. Support educational programs that teach conflict resolution, tolerance, and peacebuilding in your local schools and communities. Complete the Rotary Positive Peace Academy and then promote it to your fellow Rotary and Rotaract members.
- Advocate for peace. Engage with your local and national governments to advocate for policies and actions that promote peace, justice, and strong institutions.
- Engage in conflict resolution. Learn about conflict resolution techniques and use them in your personal and professional life to foster understanding and resolve disputes peacefully.
Peace starts with you
The Rotary Action Group for Peace encourages you to be intentional about peace. Build peace into your thoughts, words, and actions. Make it a personal behavior, become a peace role model. You can change the world, but it must start with you.
To stay updated on the Rotary Action Group for Peace activities, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or visit our website.
Let us all work together to build a more peaceful world for generations to come.
Review the Rotary Builds Peace Brochure for more resources and inspiration to become a peacebuilder or to develop peace projects. Learn more about building inclusive and peaceful communities through Rotary.
