Windows4Peace at Impact Café & Coworking, Paris

OUR VISION

Dr. Peter van den Dungen

In our increasingly small, fragile and interdependent world the need to live together peacefully and non-violently is a condition of survival. Yet, the culture of war and violence is still widespread, causing untold death and destruction. In virtually all societies, the military continue to be regarded as the defenders of peace and prosperity, of freedom and justice, whereas the opposite is often the case. Bloody battles and wars are still the mainstay of history teaching, and glory and heroism continue to be largely associated with them. Countless public monuments and museums reinforce the traditional views.

That there is another, more enlightened and hopeful view of history, is not taught, and not on view. The inspiring and encouraging teachings and lives of peace heroes such as Buddha, Jesus, Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela show the power of nonviolence, and the wisdom of the view that ‘there is no way to peace, peace is the way’. Peace museums are ideal instruments to educate a wide public in the necessities and practicalities of non-violent conflict resolution, whether at home, in the community, or globally. Peace museums inform and inspire visitors that there is another way.

Definitions of Peace

What is “Peace” exactly?

As a Peace Museum we must of course explain our subject; “Peace”. While many people associate this word with the Hippie movements in the 70s and protests against the Vietnam War, it contains more then one might think. In general, political science differentiates between positive and negative peace. Negative Peace can be understood as a simple absence of war or armed conflicts. This definition focuses on the idea of tranquillity and non-violence in a society or between nations.  It relies heavily on nations and supranational structures but often leaves out intrastate problems and personal aspects. Positive Peace on the other hand has a much wider definition. It contains aspects like:

Political Stability: Peace can be seen as a state of political stability where there is an absence of political violence, repression, or unrest, and where democratic processes are functioning smoothly.

International Cooperation: Peace can be understood as the result of diplomatic efforts and international cooperation to resolve conflicts peacefully and promote mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration among nations.

Social Justice and Equality: Peace can also encompass social justice and equality, where all individuals have access to their rights, opportunities, and resources, and where there is no discrimination or oppression based on race, gender, religion, or other factors.

Environmental Harmony: In a broader sense, peace can include environmental harmony, where there is a balance between human activities and the natural world, leading to sustainability and the preservation of ecosystems.

Cultural Understanding: Peace can involve cultural understanding and tolerance, where different cultures, religions, and beliefs coexist peacefully, respecting each other's diversity and differences.

Harmony and Serenity: Peace can also refer to a state of harmony and tranquillity within oneself or in a community. It involves inner calmness, emotional well-being, and the absence of discord or tension.

Inner Peace: At a personal level, peace can refer to a state of inner harmony, contentment, and fulfilment, where individuals are free from stress, anxiety, and inner conflicts.