2026 Outstanding Peace Organisation

Initiatives of Change was founded in the early twentieth century and has operated under its current name since 2001. The organisation is rooted in the conviction that sustainable peace begins with personal responsibility and inner transformation, and must be translated into social, political, and institutional change. From this foundation, Initiatives of Change has developed a distinctive peacebuilding approach that links inner reflection with practical action.

Today, Initiatives of Change works through a global network active in more than 60 countries, engaging individuals, communities, and institutions affected by conflict, polarisation, and historical injustice. Its programmes address complex dimensions of peacebuilding, including rebuilding trust after violence, fostering dialogue across religious and cultural divides, strengthening ethical leadership, and supporting reconciliation in post-conflict societies.

Key initiatives such as Hope in the Cities, Trustbuilding Program and Creators of Peace along with national reconciliation programmes across Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia, have enabled sustained dialogue among divided communities and empowered women and youth as peacebuilders. The organisation also maintains engagement with international institutions, including representation at the United Nations and the Council of Europe.

Through its work, Initiatives of Change advances a model of peacebuilding grounded in listening, accountability, and moral courage.

“Lasting peace is not only built through agreements between nations, but through transformation within people which is at the heart of Initiatives of Change’s work”.

Talia Smith, Initiatives of Change International’s Trustbuilding Program Manager

Photo credit: Alex Anyfandakis (Peace Avocate Photography) & Sarah Miller Media