Date: May 8-9, 2023
Location: Flemish Parliament Brussels, Belgium
Prominent peace research institutes from around the world collaborated to host a two-day international conference titled “Reimagining Peace: New Agendas for Research & Policy in Times of Conflict.” The event, which took place on May 8 and 9, 2023, was hosted by the Flemish Peace Institute in Belgium. Scholars, policymakers, and young researchers gathered to discuss innovative approaches to addressing conflicts and promoting peace.
On the first day, May 8, the conference focused on peace research in times of conflict. Interactive sessions delved into topics such as proliferation and disarmament, local peace initiatives, climate and conflict, and feminist peace research, among others. Participants engaged in constructive dialogues and exchanged ideas on novel ways to understand and address complex conflicts worldwide.
The highlight of the day was the keynote address delivered by Professor Mary Kaldor, a renowned expert in the field. Professor Kaldor shared her groundbreaking insights on new wars, global civil society, and human security, inspiring attendees with her extensive research and expertise.
On the second day, May 9, which coincided with Europe Day, the spotlight shifted to peace research for policy and innovation. Sessions explored emerging technology and arms control, effective peacebuilding strategies, and Europe’s role in tackling contemporary challenges related to conflicts and peace. Participants examined how research can inform policies and contribute to innovative solutions for sustainable peace.
Throughout the event, young researchers actively participated and offered new, innovative solutions to the challenges faced in peace research. Their contributions were met with enthusiasm and encouraged the broader peace research community to continue exploring fresh perspectives and unconventional approaches to peacebuilding.
The president of LKGCB, Dr Bari attended the conference and interacted with various participants including 2 members – Ria Verjauw and Lieve De Kinder from our partner organization Leuven Peace Movement.
Among the esteemed speakers were two prominent academics: Professor Swati Parashar and Associate Professor Punam Yadav. Professor Parashar, a leading expert in Peace and Development at Gothenburg University, has made significant contributions to the field of feminist peace research. Her work on feminism, postcolonialism, conflict, and development in South Asia and East Africa has been widely recognized. Associate Professor Punam Yadav, known for her expertise in Humanitarian Studies and her role as Co-director of the Centre for Gender and Disaster, brought a unique perspective to the conference. Dr. Yadav’s pioneering approach involves integrating the concepts of conflict and disaster, providing fresh insights into understanding societal changes through a gender lens.
The “Reimagining Peace” conference, hosted by the Flemish Peace Institute in Belgium, succeeded in fostering collaboration between diverse peace research institutions and promoting a holistic, inclusive understanding of peace in an increasingly interconnected world. As the international community collectively works towards a more peaceful future, the insights gained from this conference are expected to play a crucial role in shaping future policies and strategies to address conflicts and promote lasting peace globally.