Peace is not passive. It is a daily, active commitment to resolving conflict through understanding, not force. It means breaking cycles of violence, healing wounds of injustice, and building systems that uphold the rights and dignity of all people. Acts of non-violence may include acts of omission, acts of commission, or a combination of both. Peace and non-violence are intrinsically linked as together they create a path for the creation and maintenance of peace.

History

The peace movement dating back to the 1800s. In the 20th century, nonviolent strategies played a crucial role against colonial rule, racial segregation, authoritarianism, and militarism. From independence movements in Asia and Africa, to civil rights campaigns in the Americas, to anti-war and environmental protests worldwide, peaceful resistance proved its strength and its capacity. From there are also many notable figures whose peace work continues to inspire, from Leo Tolstoy, Mahatma Gandhi, Phan Chu Trinh, Martin Luther King Jr., and many more. It is important to pay homage to the individuals who believed in peace and non-violent conflict resolution as we move forward and continue to promote peace.

Today, the peace movement continues to evolve. From grassroots climate justice campaigns to international peacebuilding efforts, millions around the world carry on the legacy of nonviolent resistance. Their work reminds us that lasting peace is not just the absence of war, but the presence of justice, equity, and dignity for all.

Impact
Non-violence and peaceful protest have also proven their powerful capability when studied.

• Non-violence is approximately ten times more likely to lead to democratisation than violent resistance.
• Applying the principles of non-violence can reduce conflict, anger, and violence.
• Research suggests that it only requires 3.5% of the population to engage in non-violent resistance for these movements to be effective.
• Non-violent campaigns are twice as likely to succeed as violent ones.

Resources:
Interested in learning more about non-violence and peace? Click on the following links to learn more about nonviolent resistance, its history, tactics, and more.