Looking back on the SCI Conference ‘Countering Violent Conflict & Polarisation: How Can Donors Help?’

Reflecting on the SCI Conference ‘Countering Violent Conflict & Polarisation: How Can Donors Help?’ held in Belfast earlier in February, we are honored to have participated in a significant and timely event. PeaceNexus’ Executive Director, Catriona Gourlay, was among the attendees. 

The conference delved into key themes crucial for addressing the challenges of our time, including funding dynamics, fostering inclusivity and dialogue, tackling polarisation and fragmentation, ensuring accountability and justice, and navigating future perspectives and challenges.  

For more information, visit: Countering Violent Conflict & Polarisation: How Can Donors Help? | Social Change Initiative 

Throughout the event, these key themes resonated in the insightful speeches delivered by distinguished speakers: 

Mark Malloch-Brown underscored the unique role of philanthropy in deploying patient and essential funding, advocating for a broader focus beyond peacebuilding among elites. He urged philanthropy to combat complacency and challenge the notion that unresolved conflict can be contained.  

Link to Mark Malloch-Brown’s speech: Can Philanthropy Rise to the Challenge? – Open Society Foundations 

Mary Robinson, reflecting on the Northern Ireland peace agreement, highlighted the indispensable support from donors during the transition from conflict to peace over three decades. She emphasized the importance of external actors aligning with principles of equality and human rights, while also supporting peer exchanges encouraging the engagement of all stakeholders and prioritising the inclusion of marginalised groups. 

Link to Mary Robinson’s speech: Current Challenges & Opportunities in an Uncertain World (youtube.com) 

The SCI Conference provided an opportune platform to address pressing issues of polarisation and violent conflict, advocating for a collective effort rooted in effective leadership and good donor practice.