International academics from a range of disciplines will come together to talk about ways to bring peace to and reduce conflict in the world at a unique two-day conference organised by the University of Winchester on 20 and 21 June.
The inaugural Winchester Peace Conference will focus on religion and culture and explore the dual role it plays in violent struggles and conflicts, where it can be both part of the problem and part of the solution. It aims to contribute positively to peacebuilding and conflict transformation by addressing some of the most complex and pressing challenges we face in the world today.
Keynote speakers are Professor Mohammed Abu-Nimer, Senior Advisor to intergovernmental organisation King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICHIID), and Sarah Hayward, Senior Advisor to the US Institute of Peace. On the first day, Abu-Nimer will discuss how peacebuilding approaches can provide an alternative to the United Nation’s Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) approach. On the second day, Sarah Hayward will discuss her efforts to advance conflict prevention, resolution and reconciliation projects within the religious sector.
Issues under discussion include the role religion can play in reducing conflict, terrorism and extremism, and practical approaches to conflict resolution. The conference will also showcase case studies on a number of countries that have recovered from conflict, including Nigeria and Sri Lanka.
The conference is organised by the Centre of Religion, Reconciliation and Peace at the University of Winchester. The Centre is dedicated to creating a free, just and peaceful world by sharing excellence and best practice in reconciliation and peace with people of all religions and none.
Mark Owen, Director of the Centre, said: "The first annual Winchester Peace Conference will examine the often underestimated dimensions of conflict and peacebuilding: the cultural and religious dimensions. All our work at the Winchester Centre of Religion, Peace and Reconciliation focuses especially on the important relationship between theory and practice and how they question, critique and enhance each other. We have some very exciting and prestigious speakers and presenters and we are really looking forward to a fascinating and stimulating couple of days.”
Winchester Peace Conference: Religion in Conflict and Peace will take place on Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 June at the West Downs Centre, University of Winchester, Romsey Road, Winchester, SO22 5FT. More information and the conference programme can be found at: https://www.winchesterpeaceconference.com/
On Wednesday, the conference takes place from 9.30am-5pm with an optional dinner taking place at 6.30-8pm. The second day of the conference takes place between 9.30am-4.30pm. One, two day and full residential rate tickets are available, with discounts available to students. Bookings close on 11 June.