Impunity, geopolitical rivalry, selective adherence to international law, and declining trust in multilateral institutions directly affect peacebuilding efforts in Ukraine. These issues were highlighted by Dmytro Fedorchak, Dialogue in Action expert, facilitator, and theologian, during an international discussion on the state of peace and the role of religious and traditional peacebuilders.
Dmytro also presented findings from Dialogue in Action’s research on the role of religious actors and communities in Ukraine. He noted that religious actors can perform social functions that are not always accessible to secular institutions:
“Religious actors perform social functions that are not accessible to secular structures: they help shape moral frameworks, engage with existential questions, and create ‘safe spaces’ for people and communities with different perspectives. They also have their own international networks, through which they can engage in informal diplomacy where official state channels are closed,” Dmytro explained
This potential is particularly important at a time when conflicts are becoming increasingly complex, democratic systems are weakening, and traditional mechanisms of international engagement are becoming less effective. Religious and traditional leaders can therefore play an important role in sustaining dialogue, building trust, and advancing peacebuilding both at the community level and through international networks.
Dmytro’s participation provided an opportunity to bring the Ukrainian experience into the global peacebuilding discussion and highlight lessons from Ukrainian communities that may be relevant to other regions facing conflict and social crises.
The annual meeting of the Advisory Group of The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers (NRTP) was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 2–4 September. This year’s theme was “Shaping Peace in a Fractured World: The Imperative Role of Religious and Traditional Actors.” The meeting brought together 118 representatives of religious, multilateral, and intergovernmental organisations from around the world for panel discussions and working sessions.
Dmytro took part in the panel “The State of Peace in the World: Global Shocks, Regional Realities, and the Role of Religious and Traditional Peacebuilders.” The discussion also featured Ernest Nya Dolo (The Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (CIDO), African Union) and Saumya Aggarwal (Youth for Peace International), and was moderated by Paula Tarvainen of Finn Church Aid.
We thank The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers and Finn Church Aid for the invitation and for the opportunity to bring the Ukrainian perspective to this important international conversation.
Dialogue in Action is an official member of The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers and serves as its representative in Ukraine.
