PPN History

History of PPN

The Power of Peace Network (PPN) is an initiative supported by UNESCO, specifically through the Communication and Information Sector, with the aim to promote peace and dialogue, with the youth taking the lead role and through the innovative use of media and ICTs.

The PPN concept rests on the simple idea of using communication technology to create a network of networks interested in the promotion of peace and dialogue. And by tapping into this network of networks, people connect to other people to build peace and to engage in dialogues through different projects and diverse initiatives around the world.

Global Power of Peace Forum

Under the PPN framework, two global ‘power of peace’ forums were held. The inaugural forum was held in Bali, Indonesia (2007) and the follow-up was in Bangkok, Thailand (2009). PPN stakeholders including youth groups, non profits, NGOs, academics, and governmental organizations convened and discussed issues related to peace building through the use of communication and information tools which formed the foundation of the network.  During the Bali Global Forum, The Spirit of Bali Declaration was established and it was reaffirmed in the second Bangkok Global Forum.

The Power of Peace Network Online Platform

The PPN mission is further augmented through the facilities made available on its online platform (http://www.thepowerofpeacenetwork.com). Launched in October 2009 during the Bangkok Global Forum, the PPN platform had surpassed the 1000th user registration mark in the first 9-months of its creation and continues to grow with new users from groups and individuals interested in the PPN mission. The long term aspiration of the PPN online component is to be become an interactive repository and facilitator which enables peace-building efforts to flourish.

The Power of Peace Network Supported Projects 2010-2011

In June 2010, The Communication and Information (CI) Sector, specifically through the Division of Freedom of Expression, Democracy and Peace conducted an informal call for proposals under the framework of PPN. To date, it has received more than 1100 project ideas and proposals from every region. However, due to limited funding the PPN is currently unable to fund projects from every region of the world and is yet to have a truly comprehensive geographic coverage. The PPN complements UNESCO priority of promoting gender equality and priority Africa. In addition, The PPN mission is in line with and complements the goals of International Year of Youth as well as the International Decade for Culture of Peace.