The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has granted €400,000 to the #reconciliation program for 2021-2022 to support reconciliation processes in the Horn of Africa.
The objective of #reconciliation is to advance and further develop multi-track, inclusive and locally led approaches to reconciliation. The workstreams in the program are e.g. sharing expertise and knowledge, peer learning, developing psychosocial support and methods for reconciliation, research and advocacy. The program is implemented together with local actors.
#reconciliation partners and supporters are the Deaconess Institute, Felm, Lutheran Church in Helsinki, Mary Hoch Reconciliation Center (Washington D.C.), Al Amana Center (Muscat, Oman) and InclusivePeace (Geneva).
There is a growing need for reconciliation, both as a process and an outcome. Of all peace treaties signed in the world, over half are collapsed after five years. In addition, the COVID-19 crisis threatens regions and communities that are already in a vulnerable position. In conflict areas, insecurity and fear burden people and the need for psychosocial support has increased.
New solutions and tools have been developed to support mediators in the changed operating environment, while people cannot be brought to the same table and many international actors have withdrawn from crisis areas. Many local peacebuilders remaining in these spaces experience significant challenges perpetuated by the sudden loss of social and institutional support.
The program supports the promotion of the third priority of Finnish development policy – well-functioning societies and democracy. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has granted EUR 25 million in project support to Finnish civil society organizations (CSOs), which will conduct development cooperation projects in developing countries in 2021–2024.
#sovinto is a program founded by the Deaconess Institute, Felm and the Lutheran Church in Helsinki, the aim of which is to promote the desire and ability of individuals and communities to act as builders of reconciliation in Finland and around the world.
Additional information: Kirsi Saloranta, Program Director, kirsi.saloranta@hdl.fi, tel. +358 40 512 3286
