March 24, 2021
   
The Hague/online

At HagueTalks it is believed that looking at peace and justice from a variety of angles and perspectives sparks innovative thinking and acting. HagueTalks is convinced that both creative minds from within and beyond the working field of peace and justice can contribute to its dialogue and promotion.

24 March, 16.00-17.00 CET: How can local governments build sustainable peace?
On the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims, this HagueTalks event will focus on the role of local governments in  peacebuilding, specifically their added and unique value and where the challenges lie for them.

The role of local governments in peacebuilding is underexposed and often overshadowed by (inter)national initiatives, whilst local and context specific peace initiatives can be very successful and can have strong legitimacy when led by local governments. This HagueTalks event will take a closer look at  the role that local governments and its leaders can play in ensuring sustainable and peaceful development in their communities. Because the consequences of any violent conflict often manifest themselves on a local scale, a local level approach is vital. This provides an opportunity for governments at local level to contribute to preventing conflicts, building bridges and dialogue after conflict and promoting a peaceful environment.

HagueTalks invites speakers from diverse backgrounds to share their stories and to discuss the important role local governments play in ensuring sustainable and peaceful development. Among the speakers are the Mayor of Palmire, Colombia, Oscar Escobar and Mayor of The Hague, Netherlands, Jan van Zanen. Moderator of the event is Hajar Yagkoubi, former UN Youth Representative.

VNG / UCLG Peace Prize is co-organiser of the event.

Join this online dialogue on HagueTalks YouTube channel:  www.youtube.com/user/haguetalks