The Network was launched in 2013 in the stewardship of a Core Group including Religions for Peace, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and Finn Church Aid. The initiation of the Network was closely supported by the UN Mediation Support Unit of the Department of Political Affairs and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations. KAICIID Dialogue Centre joined the Core Group in 2015. As the main financial supporter, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland participates in Core Group meetings actively.
Network activities are mandated by the Core Group and served and facilitated by the Network Secretariat. The Secretariat prepares meetings, ensures communication, coordinates joint activities, and facilitates the development of the support structures providing assistance to religious and traditional peacemakers. Much of the work of the Secretariat is done upon request and in close collaboration with partners.
The main structure of the Network is the Advisory Group which consists of key member organizations implementing programs that support the peacebuilding efforts of religious and traditional peacemakers. Advisory group members include grassroots religious and traditional peacemaking actors, international NGOs and academic institutes.
The advisory group of the Network convenes in annual advisory meetings organized by the Network Secretariat. Annual meetings provide strategic and practical guidance to the Network members and ensure that the Network functions provide added value for the programmes of the partner organizations. Organizations also engage in thematic and regional collaboration meetings and consultations and form active working groups to answer current themes and issues.
The Network is in constant search of future partners. To learn more of ways of engaging, contact us via email: secretariat(at)peacemakersnetwork.org.