Summary

This report is the Life & Peace Institute (LPI) and its partners’ written submission to the 2020 United Nations (UN) Peacebuilding Architecture Review process. As the outcome of a series of consultations, it gathers perspectives from a diverse range of peacebuilding practitioners in the Horn of Africa and Great Lakes region. Particular emphasis was placed on engaging peacebuilders who are not often heard in global policy discussions.

The report is arranged in two parts. Part One presents the perspectives of the peacebuilding practitioners, highlighting their examples and experiences. These examples—largely unseen and under-recognised in global peacebuilding policy and action—demonstrate the richness of local peacebuilding practices, efforts, knowledge, and experiences. To a large extent, these are untapped resources for building sustainable peace. Building on these perspectives, Part Two presents four recommendations directed at the UN Peacebuilding Architecture. If these are implemented, they will support a transformation towards a more inclusive space for decision makers and practitioners, working in pursuit of aligned goals to sustain peace.